The Savage Fox Model B is a highly regarded shotgun, prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike for its quality and craftsmanship. If you own a Savage Fox Model B, understanding its history can add to your appreciation. Locating the serial number and using it to trace the gun's manufacturing date is a crucial step in this process. However, finding a definitive online database for Savage Fox serial numbers can be challenging. This guide will provide you with strategies to potentially uncover your shotgun's age and history.
Where to Find the Serial Number on Your Savage Fox Model B?
Before starting your search, you'll need to locate the serial number. Typically, on a Savage Fox Model B, you'll find it engraved on the:
- Bottom of the receiver: This is the most common location for the serial number. Carefully inspect the bottom of the receiver, often near the trigger guard.
- Water table (on the receiver): Some models might have the serial number etched into the water table.
- Barrel: While less common, there's a possibility the serial number is marked on the barrel.
Once you have located the serial number, it's time to investigate its meaning.
How to Research Your Savage Fox Model B Serial Number?
Unfortunately, there isn't a central, publicly accessible database that directly translates Savage Fox Model B serial numbers into manufacturing dates. Savage Arms, the company that produced these shotguns, doesn't typically offer this information directly to the public.
However, you can still try these approaches:
-
Contact Savage Arms Directly: While they might not have a public database, contacting Savage Arms customer service is worth a try. They may have internal records or be able to provide some information based on the serial number. Be prepared to provide clear images of the serial number and other identifying marks on your shotgun.
-
Engage with Firearms Forums and Collector Communities: Online forums dedicated to firearms, shotguns, or Savage Arms specifically are invaluable resources. Experienced collectors often share knowledge and techniques for dating older firearms. Posting images of your shotgun's serial number and other markings (along with details about the gun's features) might help knowledgeable members pinpoint its approximate age.
-
Consult with Gunsmiths and Appraisers: Experienced gunsmiths and firearms appraisers are often well-versed in identifying and dating firearms. They may be able to provide an estimate based on the serial number, along with the overall condition and features of your shotgun. This may come at a cost, however.
-
Research Historical Records: While a daunting task, some historical records and archives may contain information about Savage Arms manufacturing dates. This is a lengthy, detailed approach and requires considerable research effort.
What Information Can a Serial Number Reveal Beyond the Manufacturing Date?
While obtaining a precise manufacturing date is the main goal, a serial number can also provide additional contextual information. This might include:
-
Model Variations: Certain serial number ranges may correlate to specific variations within the Fox Model B line. This information helps understand your gun's exact features and specifications.
-
Production Run: The serial number can provide a general idea of the approximate size of the production run of your particular Model B. A lower serial number generally implies that it was made earlier in a specific series.
Finding the Information: Patience and Persistence are Key!
Remember that tracing a Savage Fox Model B serial number to its manufacturing date isn't always a straightforward process. Patience, persistence, and tapping into the expertise of the firearms community are crucial. The effort invested is often rewarded with a deeper understanding and appreciation of your firearm's history.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for research purposes only. Always handle firearms safely and responsibly. This information is not intended to be a definitive guide and further research may be required. This is not an endorsement of any specific method or resource.
