Author Topic: A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length  (Read 583 times)

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Offline glshop20

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A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length
« on: April 22, 2007, 10:03:22 AM »
I have a Philadelphia A.H. Fox 12ga. sxs.  Does anyone know the chamber length? If it is less then 2-3/4" can I safely use 2-3/4" shells?  It has steel barrels not damascus.  It was manufactured around 1900 and is very tight.   Thanks,  Walt

Offline carbine mike

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Re: A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length
« Reply #1 on: April 22, 2007, 03:52:51 PM »
  Do Not shot a longer shell than the gun is chambered for. If the shell cannot open all the way pressures will increase by a lot. Brownells sells a chamber length gauge for about 20 bucks. pretty cheap insurance.

Offline gunnut69

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Re: A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length
« Reply #2 on: April 23, 2007, 06:14:18 AM »
It is possible to measure with a depth caliper but a Gage is easier. As a 12 it is likely OK but check to be sure. Shooting over length shells will raise pressures but I've seen debates as to the danger. I would not fire any weapon with ammo that is incorrect... Be safe!
gunnut69--
The 2nd amendment to the constitution of the United States of America-
"A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed."

Offline glshop20

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Re: A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length
« Reply #3 on: April 23, 2007, 01:07:50 PM »
I tried to use a depth micrometer but don't seem to be able to catch a shoulder.  I tried on other shotguns with 2-3/4" chamber and had the same results.  I have a set of chamber-mates gauge reducing inserts and the did not go all the way in.  I would not want to lengthen the chamber as I have heard it can weaken the barrel.  I did put 25 of my reloads(1oz. 1150fps. low pressure) through it at the skeet field and I did not show any signs of a problem and the empties seemed fine. 

Offline gunnut69

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Re: A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length
« Reply #4 on: April 24, 2007, 06:11:42 AM »
The chamber should have a definite ending. This is the ledge the chamber length guage sit on also. An older gun can have had many things done to it, some may not have been such a great idea. That said I have seen older single shot shotguns with no chamber at all! They simply had tapered bores that allowed the maker to dispense with chambering and choking. The barrel if cut at a certain length was a modified another length produced another constriction. The gentleman who owned this old gun(a 20 guage) was using 3 inch shells for turkeys. I assumed he was in danger but an old friend assured me there was no need for concern. He may have lessened the gun life span but I suppose all shooting would do that. I always hate to make guesses but it is possible that someone in the past was a little heavy handed with the polishing tools and has blurred the chamber s definition. I would certainly take this gun to a competant smith for a check up. This kind of thing can lead to thinning of the barrels to a dangerous degree. I would not shoot this gun until checked and approved..
gunnut69--
The 2nd amendment to the constitution of the United States of America-
"A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed."

Offline glshop20

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Re: A.H. Fox 12ga. Chamber length
« Reply #5 on: April 24, 2007, 01:30:12 PM »
Thanks to all for the help.  It's great to have a source for info. and idea sharing such as GBO.  Keep up the good work and thanks,  Walt