by Bruce Canfield - Monday, May 18, 2015
Shotguns have had a long, but often unheralded, tenure of service with America’s armed forces. Even before the Revolutionary War, smoothbore flintlock “fowling pieces” were frequently pressed into service in the hands of militia and other irregular troops. Shotguns were often employed, particularly by Confederate cavalrymen, during the American Civil War. Likewise, shotguns accompanied troops during the Western Expansion from the late 1860s through the 1880s. A few shotguns were acquired by the military during this period for “foraging” use, such as hunting birds and other small game to supplement the typical salt pork and hardtack fare. In the immediate aftermath of the Spanish-American War of 1898, the U.S. military procured shotguns specifically for combat purposes when a couple hundred commercial Winchester Model 1897 slide-action “riot” shotguns (20' barrel) were issued to American soldiers fighting Moro tribesmen in the Philippines.
While never a large part of our military small arms arsenal, increasing numbers of shotguns saw service in all subsequent U.S. military conflicts. During World War I, a version of the Model 1897 fitted with a ventilated metal handguard and bayonet adapter was issued for combat use, along with a smaller number of similarly modified Remington Model 10 shotguns. Dubbed “trench guns,” these arms produced during World War I remained in service with the U.S. military between the wars, but no new combat shotguns were manufactured after cancellation of the 1918 contracts. After the Armistice, civilian gunmakers concentrated on rifles and shotguns for the civilian sporting/hunting market.
Due to the growing popularity of the Winchester and Remington slide-action shotguns, Ithaca Gun Co. sought a gun of this type to keep pace with its two major competitors. In 1937, Ithaca introduced its first repeating shotgun, the Model 37. The gun was an improved version of the John Browning-designed Model 17 that had been a popular seller for the Remington Arms Co. The design differed from most other slide-action shotguns as the shells were loaded and ejected from the bottom of the receiver rather than the bottom-loading and side-port ejection configuration found on most of the competing designs. This feature appealed to many buyers, and the Model 37 soon became known for its craftsmanship and reliability. From the time of its introduction until the eve of America’s entrance into World War II, Ithaca focused on commercial sales of the Model 37, and the company made little effort to attract law enforcement or military customers.
Nonetheless, with the ever-increasing likelihood that the United States would be drawn into the war raging in Europe, the U.S. Army Ordnance Dept. began preparations to procure shotguns for military use. It was envisioned that such arms would soon be needed for training and combat purposes. To that end, the U.S. Army Ordnance Dept. issued Order No. 17074 on Aug. 7, 1941, which standardized the following shotguns for “riot and sporting use”: Winchester Model 97, Winchester Model 12, Ithaca Model 37, Remington Model 31 and Savage M620.
While never a large part of our military small arms arsenal, increasing numbers of shotguns saw service in all subsequent U.S. military conflicts. During World War I, a version of the Model 1897 fitted with a ventilated metal handguard and bayonet adapter was issued for combat use, along with a smaller number of similarly modified Remington Model 10 shotguns. Dubbed “trench guns,” these arms produced during World War I remained in service with the U.S. military between the wars, but no new combat shotguns were manufactured after cancellation of the 1918 contracts. After the Armistice, civilian gunmakers concentrated on rifles and shotguns for the civilian sporting/hunting market.
Due to the growing popularity of the Winchester and Remington slide-action shotguns, Ithaca Gun Co. sought a gun of this type to keep pace with its two major competitors. In 1937, Ithaca introduced its first repeating shotgun, the Model 37. The gun was an improved version of the John Browning-designed Model 17 that had been a popular seller for the Remington Arms Co. The design differed from most other slide-action shotguns as the shells were loaded and ejected from the bottom of the receiver rather than the bottom-loading and side-port ejection configuration found on most of the competing designs. This feature appealed to many buyers, and the Model 37 soon became known for its craftsmanship and reliability. From the time of its introduction until the eve of America’s entrance into World War II, Ithaca focused on commercial sales of the Model 37, and the company made little effort to attract law enforcement or military customers.
Nonetheless, with the ever-increasing likelihood that the United States would be drawn into the war raging in Europe, the U.S. Army Ordnance Dept. began preparations to procure shotguns for military use. It was envisioned that such arms would soon be needed for training and combat purposes. To that end, the U.S. Army Ordnance Dept. issued Order No. 17074 on Aug. 7, 1941, which standardized the following shotguns for “riot and sporting use”: Winchester Model 97, Winchester Model 12, Ithaca Model 37, Remington Model 31 and Savage M620.
On Nov. 11, 1941, (less than a month before the attack on Pearl Harbor), the U.S. Ordnance Dept. placed orders with Winchester Repeating Arms Co. for 1,494 Model 97 “trench guns,” the first new military combat shotguns to be procured since the end of World War I.
Anticipating additional orders from the government for combat shotguns as well, Ithaca designed a “trench gun” version of its Model 37 riot gun (20' barrel) fitted with a handguard/bayonet adapter very similar to the Winchester design. Since the Model 37 was one of the guns previously standardized by the Ordnance Dept., the trench gun variant was quickly approved for procurement, along with a number of short-barrel riot guns (without bayonet adapters) and longer-barrel training guns.
In the spring of 1942, the government placed orders for 1,420 Model 37 trench guns designated in Ithaca factory records as “Model #37, 12/20'- Riot Type Shotguns with Bayonet Attachments.” While the term “trench gun” was never official government nomenclature, it is useful terminology to differentiate the models fitted with bayonet adapters from the plain-barrel “riot” guns.
The Model 37 trench guns were shipped from the Ithaca factory to Augusta Arsenal between June 27 and July 20, 1942. Factory records reflect that two additional Model 37 trench guns were sent to the New Cumberland (Penn.) Supply Depot on Sept. 4, 1942, which resulted in total production of 1,422 guns. The per-unit cost to the government was $33.60.
The World War II Ithaca Model 37 trench guns were finished in Ithaca’s attractive commercial-grade blue. The receivers did not have the engraved “game scenes” as found on most of the earlier riot guns procured under government contract. Some of the initial-production World War II Model 37 trench guns’ stocks were checkered on the grip area and the slide handle, but most guns had unadorned (not checkered) wood.
Unlike the other manufacturers, the World War II (and most post-war) Ithaca military shotgun production records survived intact, thus exact serial numbers are known. Although the guns were not consecutively serial numbered, the World War II-production Model 37 trench gun serial numbers ranged from 57,820 to 61,450. If a gun found today is not in this serial number range, it is not a genuine World War II-production Model 37 trench gun. The wartime Ithaca trench guns were marked on the left side of the receiver with the Ordnance “flaming bomb” insignia, “R.L.B” (initials of Col. Roy L. Bowlin, head of the Rochester Ordnance District), and a small “P” (proof) stamp. Unlike some military shotguns made by other contractors, the Ithaca Model 37 stocks were not marked with inspection or proof stamps.
In addition to the 1,422 trench guns, Ithaca also delivered a number of Model 37 riot guns to Uncle Sam. To fulfill the initial contracts, many of these 20' plain-barrel shotguns were taken directly from civilian production inventory and stamped with martial markings—generally a “U.S.” stamp, the Ordnance “flaming bomb” insignia and a “P” proofmark on the receiver or barrel. Many of these early riot guns had highly polished blued metal with commercial-type engraved “game scenes” on the receiver and finely checkered high-grade wood. Ithaca factory records also indicate that the State of New York acquired a couple hundred Model 37 riot guns with 22' barrels in late 1941 and early 1942 as well. In addition to the riot guns and trench guns, the government procured 4,534 long-barrel Model 37 training shotguns between June 1941 and September 1942.
In late 1942, Ithaca began production of the M1911A1 .45 ACP pistol under government contract. The Ordnance Dept. determined that the war effort would be better served if the company concentrated on manufacture of the pistol, and military production of the Model 37 shotgun ceased for the duration of the war. The limited number of guns manufactured resulted in the World War II-production Ithaca Model 37 being the rarest standardized U.S. military trench gun of the war.
After 1945, the supply of World War II-made shotguns, including the relative handful of Model 37 trench guns, along with the much larger number of Winchester and Stevens guns, was sufficient to meet the immediate post-war demand and further production of military shotguns ceased.
But, in early 1962, the need arose for additional quantities of military combat shotguns with which to arm our South Vietnamese allies as the war in Southeast Asia began to grow exponentially. Beginning in November 1962, Ithaca received the first of a series of government contracts for (Model 37) “Shotgun, 12 Ga. Riot Type, Slide Action, 20' Barrel, in accordance with Military Specifications MIL-S3443, Type IIIA.” The per-unit cost was $36.61, which included a cleaning rod and web sling. A total of 22,000 of these Model 37 shotguns was delivered to the Saigon government between Nov. 14, 1962 and Jan. 31, 1963. Serial numbers ranged between 50,000 and 71,999. Since the guns were not made for the U.S. military, they were not marked with American martial markings. They were plain-barrel riot guns and were not equipped with bayonet adapters, but they were fitted with sling swivels.
As the United States’ involvement in Vietnam began to escalate further, the supply of World War II-production shotguns became depleted as the guns, once again, proved their value to our troops. Beginning in 1963, the U.S. government placed orders with Ithaca for Model 37 riot guns for issue to our armed forces. They were mechanically identical to the guns previously made for the South Vietnamese government but were not equipped with sling swivels. The serial numbers had an “S” prefix and were in a lower range (S1000-S23000) than the guns made previously. The guns were marked “U.S.” on the right side of the receiver with “P” proofmarks on the receiver and barrel. The stocks were unmarked. Like the South Vietnamese riot guns, these “S-prefix” U.S. military Model 37s were not fitted with bayonet adapters. One exception was a later (1963) U.S. Air Force order for 206 guns of this type fitted with the same general type of handguard/bayonet adapter used with the World War II Model 37 trench guns.
In May 1966, the U.S. Naval Operations Support Group ordered an additional 3,000 Model 37 “Shotguns, Riot Type, Special Purpose, 12 ga.” from Ithaca at a contract price of $37.60 each. They were serial numbered in the 902000–952000 range. They were shipped to the U.S. Naval Amphibious Base in San Diego for subsequent distribution to Navy and Marine Corps personnel. Except for the serial number marking format, the guns were similar to the earlier “S-prefix” Model 37 riot guns.
In the mid-1960s, Frankford Arsenal experimented with a “spreader choke” for shotguns that would produce a wider pattern of shot dispersion to increase the “hit probability.” This research resulted in the development of the so-called “duckbill” choke which produced an elliptical shot pattern. Some of these experimental chokes, usually attached to Model 37 riot guns, were used by U.S. Navy Seals and U.S. Marine Corps reconnaissance teams in Vietnam. The results of combat use of the choke were mixed, and it was eventually determined that the device was better suited for riot control applications than for combat use.
In 1967, the U.S. government placed orders with Ithaca for a relatively small quantity of Model 37 trench guns that differed in several minor respects from the more than 200 “S-prefix serial number” USAF trench guns ordered previously. These later Vietnam-era Model 37 trench guns were very similar to the World War II trench guns except for having a Parkerized finish (rather than bluing), a different serial number range and different type of martial markings. Unlike the previous Model 37 military shotgun contracts, factory production and shipping records for the later guns have not been found. The handful of observed genuine specimens typically fall around the 980,000 serial number range. Along with the standard commercial markings (including Ithaca’s proprietary “Roto-Forge” logo), the guns were marked “U.S.” on the receiver with “P” proofmarks on the barrel. Ithaca also made a number of essentially identical Model 37 trench guns for the civilian and law enforcement markets that were not stamped with martial markings and were in a higher serial number range.
It is interesting to note that these 1960s-production Model 37 trench guns, like the World War II trench guns, were equipped with bayonet adapters for use with the Model 1917 “U.S. Enfield” rifle bayonet. As the supply of World War I M1917 bayonets became depleted, contracts for new bayonets of this pattern were given to two firms; General Cutlery and Canada Arsenal. These Vietnam-era bayonets were fitted with plastic grips and were not as well crafted as the 1917-1918 bayonets made by Remington and Winchester.
The most widely issued shotguns during the Southeast Asia conflict were the Ithaca Model 37 and Stevens Model 77E. While issued in large numbers, the Model 77E was plagued by some nagging reliability problems, but the Model 37 generally gave excellent service and was highly regarded by the majority of its users. By the late 1960s, newer designs, including the Remington Model 870 and Winchester Model 1200, came on the scene, and most of the Model 37s (and 77Es) were eventually withdrawn from military service. Nonetheless, the Model 37 continued to be a popular law enforcement arm, and many are still in use today.
Military shotguns are extremely popular with today’s military arms collectors, and prices are rising at a rapid rate. As discussed, one of the rarest examples of the genre is the World War II Model 37 trench gun, but all of the Ithaca military shotguns are highly desirable acquisitions for a collector. Unfortunately, the very limited supply and high demand has resulted in many fakes coming on the market today. These include long-barrel civilian Model 37s with cut-down barrels and reproduction handguard/bayonet adapters added. Some fake Vietnam-era Model 37 trench guns with bogus “USSF” (purportedly “United States Special Forces”) markings have also been observed. Potential buyers should do their homework before committing to the purchase of supposedly genuine Model 37 military shotguns.
Although overshadowed today by the better-known and more widely used military shotguns—such as the Winchester Model 1897 and Model 12—the Ithaca Model 37 remains one of the best shotguns ever issued to our military. Its procurement and issuance from 1942 through the late 1960s is ample testimony to the value of the Ithaca Model 37 to our armed forces.
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if it has a origanel engine and reguler color then its worth formarket value then about 54 and a half thou if its the origanulcolor and origanul engin then ya about 54 and a half thou
What year is an Ithaca shotgun with serial number 3714966893?
That is a phone number, not a serial number. Ithaca did not make 3 billion shotguns.
How do you tell which years different Ithaca model 37 20 ga shotguns were produced?
How old is a Ithaca sxs serial5207911?
I cannot find a serial number that high in any of my Ithaca references. The link below will take you to a good summary of serial numbers for Ithaca shotguns, you may be able to find your model and date there-
What is Ithaca Gun Co serial number 303790?
Ithaca still makes shotguns. Contact them via their web site and maybe they can tell you You have an Ithaca Flues model made in 1919
When was Ithaca model 37 serial number 823156-2 and value?
The serial number you posted does not match any data from Ithaca records. The link below is to the accepted table of manufacturing dates for Ithaca shotguns. Values can range from $200-$450, depending on the exact version and the condition.
How can you tell the model and year of an Ithaca shotgun?
look on the Side of the recevier there should be a Serial Number on the older Ithaca Model 37 the serial Number was stamped on the receiver by the magazine tune and Barrel . also if you take the barrel off on the bottom of the barrel you'll find the matching serial Number. then look up WWW.SURPLUSRIFLEFORUM.COM in their search engine type in ITHACA 37 DOM match your shotguns Serial number up with their chart… Read More
Ithaca ShotGun 10 gauge serial no 3650 How Old is it?
If this is an old side by side it would be a Baker model made in 1886. Serial numbers of Ithaca shotguns for that year were 2448 - 4101.
What year is an Ithaca shotgun with serial number 348225?
Your serial number indicates that your Ithaca shotgun was made in the year 1920.
When was the Ithaca 45 m1911a1 serial number NO 860361 made and how many where made?
The Ithaca 45 m1911a1 serial number NO 860361 pistol was made by Ithaca in 1943
What year is an Ithaca serial number of 327286?
You would need to include the model number or name of your Ithaca firearm,along with the serial number to get the correct answer.
How old is a Ithaca hammerless double barrel with serial number 88766?
Your serial number indicates that you have a Ithaca crass model double,that was made in 1903.
What is the age and approximate value of an Ithaca 12 gauge double barrel shotgun with serial number 394489?
The serial number that you provided indicates that you have a Ithaca Flues model double barrel shotgun that was made in the year 1925.I would have your shotgun appraised by someone who specializes in these shotguns because there are to many variables that would indicate a accurate price for your shotgun.
What is the age of a 12 gauge Ithaca double barrel serial number 285582?
It sounds to me that you have a Ithaca Flues model double barrel shotgun.With the serial number that you provided,your shotgun was made by Ithaca in 1917.
What year was Ithaca model 37 serial number 371081657 made?
Made in 1969. Info from Ithaca Gun Co. serial number check chart.
Where is serial number on 50cal Ithaca hawken rifle?
I bought an Ithaca hawkin kit in the 70s. I finally got around to finishing it. There is no serial number on it anywhere
What is the age of a Ithaca hamerless double barrel shotgun with a serial number of 91318?
It sounds as if you have a Ithaca Crass model shotgun,that was produced in the year 1903 by your serial number.
How do you know how old your Ithaca gun is?
You can tell how old your Ithaca gun is by the model and serial number
What is a Ithaca Gun Co rifle with the serial number 339133?
What year did Ithaca make a 1911 with serial number starting with D?
What is the age of your Ithaca 12 ga double serial number 267416?
By your description,it sounds as if you have a Ithaca model Flues double barrel shotgun that with that serial number was produced in the year 1914.
What is Ithaca gun serial number 84806?
No way to answer. Serial numbers do not work that way.
Can the magazine tube on an Ithaca M 37 be changed to an 8 shot tube and use the short Defender barrel?
First off, the Ithaca is one of the finest pump shotguns ever made, and the ones made now are the best yet. (And no, I don't work for them, but I shoot them!) The first criteria is how old is you Ithaca Model 37. Ithacas with a serial number lower than 855,000 DO NOT have interchangeable barrels, so for those, the answer would be no. Ithaca M 37 shotguns with a serial number higher than… Read More
How much is a Ithaca featherweight model 37 worth?
depends on the year and manufacture date of your gun . also do all the parts match by serial Number you should find the serial Number on side of the receiver (on newer Ithaca) older style Ithaca the serial Number will be on the Recevier (Between the magazine tube and barrel) then look up WWW.SURPLUSRIFLEFORUM.COM on their site look up on their Search engine type in 'ITHACA 37 DOM' there you'll find the serial list… Read More
What is the value of an Ithaca double barrel 20 gauge shotgun serial number 236374?
Value of ANY gun is based on EXACT make, model, variety and condition. You need a hands-on appraisal.Your serial number indicates that you should have a Ithaca Flues model double barrel shotgun,which was made in the year 1913.The value could not be determined unless you provide a more detailed description of your shotguns overall condition.
Where can you find information about an Ithaca side by side with serial number 15153D4?
Look in 'The Ithaca Gun Company - From the Beginning'
What year was this gun made Ithaca 16ga pump serial?
What year was Ithaca model 37 serial number 586245 made?
The serial number indicates your gun was made in 1955.
When was 1911 serial number 1234190 made?
The Colt with that serial number was produced at the end of 1943 in Ithaca,NY as the year 1944 started with serial number 1235000.
What is the age of New Ithaca double barrel coach shotgun serial number 13574?
The New Ithaca Double models were first made in 1925, but the starting serial number for them was 425000. If it was a New Ithaca Gun (NIG), then it would have been made in 1890-91.
What year is an Ithaca shotgun gun?
What is the age of an Ithaca shotgun with serial number 309545?
How old is an Ithaca 37 with serial number 271631?
Older Ithaca m37 12 gauge and want to know the age?
The age of an Ithaca can easily be determined from the serial number. What is it?
Where is there a list of serial numbers and dates for Ithaca shotguns?
The most comprehensive coverage of these is probably in the book 'The Ithaca Gun Company: From the Beginning' by Snyder. Check with Amazon and others. It is not uncommon to see copies advertised at www.gunbroker.com for $100 or so.
What year was the Ithaca model 37 featherlight serial number 931859 made?
The serial number indicates your gun was manufactured in 1966.
What is the age of an Ithaca damascus double barrel shotgun serial 49149?
With the serial number that you provided,your Ithaca double barrel shotgun with the damascus barrels was produced in the year 1900.
Where is the serial number on a wards Hercules shotgun?
Serial numbers were not required on rifles and shotguns until 1968.
Ithaca Model 37 Serial Numbers Year
What is the age and value of an Ithaca Hammer less double barrel shotgun serial 149192?
With the serial number that you provided,your Ithaca hammer less double barrel shotgun was made between the years 1904-1907.I could not asses a value of this shotgun without a brief discription of its condition.I will say that most shotguns of this age and make will bring in the neighbor hood of 400 dollars and up.
What is a double barrel 12 gauge Ithaca gun company serial 391823 value?
With the serial number that you provided,your Ithaca double barrel shotgun is a Flues Model shotgun that was produced in the year 1925.As to the value,that would be difficult to determine with Ithaca making many different Grades of the Flues model shotgun,along with many different special order features that could be ordered.I would have someone that is experienced with double barrel shotguns appraise your firearm.
Who to contact for serial number for my gun?
Not certain I understand what you are asking. If your gun HAS a serial number, it should be stamped into the metal of the receiver (frame). In the US, serial numbers were not required by law on rifles and shotguns until 1968. Many older rifles and shotguns- especially .22 rifles, have never had a serial number, and they are perfectly legal,
What is double barrel Ithaca 12 gauge with hammers shotgun worth serial number is 3698?
Your serial number and description indicates that you have a Ithaca Baker model shotgun,which was made in either 1885,or 1886.The value cannot be determined unless you provide a more detailed description of the shotguns overall condition,to include the amount of original finish remaining on the wood and metal,the bores overall condition(any pitting,or rust) barrel length,etc.
How old is a LeFever 16 ga single shotgun with number 11167 on it and it has Lefever Arms Co. Ithaca NY on the side?
The Ithaca Gun Co manufactured the Lefever single barrel shotguns under the Lefever Arms Co. name after it acquired the company in 1916. This model was made between 1927 and 1942; the serial number indicates yours was made in 1928.
What is Ithaca Gun Co serial number 490368416?
You have a Ithaca Model 49 Saddle Gun which was mfg between 1962-1978.
What is the date of manufacture of a model 37 Ithaca SN 604349?
The serial number indicates Ithaca manufactured your Model 37 in 1956.
What is Ithaca Gun Co serial number 322162?
You have an Ithaca Flues model made in 1920 if it is a sxs doubel not stated in your ques.
What is Ithaca Gun Co serial number 289098?
You have an Ithaca Flues model made in 1917 if it is a sxs double not stated in your ques.
What is Ithaca gun co serial number 455859?
You have an Ithaca NID model made in 1929 if it is a sxs double not stated in your ques
What is Ithaca gun co serial number 244784?
You have an Ithaca Flues model made in 1917 if it is a sxs double not stated in your ques
What is Ithaca gun co serial number 210558?
You have an Ithaca Flues model made in 1917 if it is a sxs double not stated in your ques
What is Ithaca gun co serial number 3095?
You have an Ithaca Baker model made in 1886 if it is a sxs double not stated in your ques
by Dave Campbell - Thursday, August 25, 2016
Like most gun companies, the Ithaca Gun Company has had a checkered path in terms of successes and failures. Founded in 1883 in Ithaca, N.Y., by William Henry Baker, Dwight McIntyre and John Vanatta, its original plan was to build fine double-barrel shotguns. Baker was a longtime gunsmith of good reputation for design and execution, but like many gunsmiths he had relatively little capital to work with, which sent him on an endless search for underwriters. By 1887 Baker had left Ithaca, and McIntyre, Vanatter and L.H. Smith, brother of L.C. Smith, continued to run the company.
The company enjoyed some success during the Edwardian latter years of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century, but mechanization and technology continued its relentless pursuit of all things efficient at the expense of all things aesthetic. Ithaca needed to come up with a magazine-fed shotgun to hold its share of the marketplace. It eventually chose a design patented by John Browning in 1915 and put forth as the Remington Model 17, a contemporary of the Winchester Model 12 that everyone seemed to want at the time. Trouble was, of course, Ithaca had to wait until Browning’s patent—owned by Remington—expired before it could utilize the features of the shotgun, so not much could be done until 1932. By then the U.S. was in the depths of The Depression, and companies like Ithaca again scrambled for working capital, as well as something that could give it a competitive edge in the market.
Fortunately for Ithaca, Remington discontinued the manufacture of the Model 17 by replacing it with the Model 31 in 1933. Like most Browning designs it depended on forgings and other relatively expensive-to-make parts. The Model 17 had some improvements patented by John Pederson—of Pederson Device fame—that did not expire until 1936. Ithaca had its own designer, Harry Howland, who modified the Remington’s firing pin and ejection mechanism in 1931, thus making it simpler and less expensive to produce. Finally, in 1937 Ithaca was able to bring the Model 37 to the market.
The Model 37 is a manually operated, slide- or pump-action shotgun fed from a tubular magazine located beneath the barrel. Its most notable feature is that it is loaded and ejects through a common port located on the underside of the receiver. The shotgun combines robustness with a simple, yet elegant design that ensured its success and popularity over more than eight decades. Though originally designed as a shotgun for hunters, its adaptation as a trench gun and police shotgun has equally cemented it in the hearts of gunners. One reason for its popularity early on as a martial shotgun was its lack of a disconnector in the fire-control mechanism, allowing the shotgun to be fired by simply holding the trigger down and operating the slide. It was thought that this provided an increase in firepower, but in actuality the gun is nearly impossible to control when operated in this way—with the exception of motion pictures where guns can do about anything. Ithaca added a disconnector in 1975 after prodding from corporate lawyers.
Its bottom-ejecting feature was actually an improvement, however. Without a big hole in the side of the receiver, the Model 37 had some built-in resistance to catching debris inside the gun and tying it up. Too, southpaws appreciated not having smoking empty hulls flung across their faces, as was the case with other magazine-fed shotguns.
The Model 37 saw service in World War II, Korea and Vietnam, as well as some other relatively minor skirmishes. It has seen extensive use by the New York and Los Angeles police departments, as well as the L.A. Sheriff’s Department. Countless other smaller law enforcement agencies pressed the Model 37 into service, too. It was very popular in the Midwest and prairie states as a waterfowl and pheasant gun.
When the Model 37 was introduced it was also called the Featherlight, though in 12 gauge it still weighed in at a shade more than 7 1/2 lbs. Later an Ultrafeatherlight model in 20 gauge with an aluminum receiver would be brought forth at about 4 1/2 lbs. It has been chambered for 2 3/4' and 3' shells in 12 gauge, as well as 16, 20 and 28 gauges. The Model 37 has been fitted with rifle sights and called Deerslayer; clad in a synthetic camo stock and deemed Turkeyslayer; even given a straight, English-style stock targeting quail hunters. Ithaca’s marketing guys used to make a big deal about the shotgun’s Raybar front sight, a sort of first-generation fiber-optic. Today it comes with a TruGlo red front sight. The number of variations that the marketing guys came up with would boggle the mind, but these are the most popular. More than 2 million Model 37s have been built in this country. One particular variant—the Stakeout—featured a pistol grip sans buttstock and a 13' barrel designed for undercover policemen. It was made popular in the television series “Miami Vice” as the gun of choice for Detective Ricardo Stubbs played by Philip Michael Thomas, who, according to the firearms consultant for the program, had difficulty handling handguns. The Chinese and Argentines have produced knock-off variants of the Model 37 as well.
Ithaca has undergone a lot of ownership changes over the years. Today it is based in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, and prides itself as a gunmaker still building every part of its guns in the United States. The Model 37 is still available with MSRPs starting in the $895 range. Though never as popular as the Remington 870 or some other pump guns, the Model 37 retains a cult-like following, especially in the riot-gun configuration with a 20' barrel and an 8-shot magazine.
Comments On This Article
Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus.What year was the Ithica model 37 featherlight serial number 371302975 made?
What year was the Ithaca model 37 featherlight serial number 931859 made?
The serial number indicates your gun was manufactured in 1966.
What is the age of Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 12 gauge serial 371431470?
What is the value of Ithaca pump 16 gauge serial number 502640?
Depends on the model and condition. An Ithaca Mdl 37 Featherlight in 16 g in excellent condition is $500-$600 at retail.
What year was the Ithaca model 51 featherlight serial number 371487645 made?
Well, first of all the serial number given is for a model 37 and not the model 51. All model 51s serial number begin with 5100. Since your begins with 37 would you not believe that it is a model 37. Your model 37 was mfg circa 1975.
What is the age of an Ithaca Featherlight model 37 12 gauge shotgun sn 509564-4?
The serial number indicates your standard-type Model 37 was manufactured in 1953.
What is the age and value of an Ithaca model 37 deerslayer featherlight Serial 714156?
What is the condition of the gun and the barrel length?
What is the age and value of an Ithaca Featherlight 12 gauge serial number 570349-4?
Your Model 37 was mfg. in 1954. The -4 indicates full choke.
What is the value of the gauge Ithaca featherlight model 37 serial number 911708?
I have seen them selling for between 250-325 dollars depending on condition and a good bore.
How old is your Ithaca model 37 featherlight it was made in Ithaca New York serial 868500?
1963. Check out the full list of serial numbers by year at http://ithacagunrepair.com/page5/page23/
What is the age of an ithaca featherlight model 37R s n 7356?
Where do you find a parts manual for a Ithaca model 37 featherlight 12 gauge 2 and 34 inch chambered shotgun serial number 371175306?
What year was an Ithaca Model 37 16 gauge featherlight Serial 385151 made?
1951 is my best estimate. On line records from Ithaca went away when they closed. Sorry-
What is the model of Ithaca 37 serial 371382659 and when was it made?
The Model is '37,' with the grade identified by a name (such as 'Featherlight' or 'Deerslayer') or a letter. Otherwise, it is a Field Grade, either Standard (2 3/4' chamber) or Magnum (3' chamber). I am aware of no public listing of Model 37 manufacture dates, but IDSA Books publishes Ithaca Featherlight Repeaters. They're on the net. However, your serial number denotes a fairly recent manufacture). 1973
When was your model 51 featherlight made serial serial?
Without the serial number, the question can't be answered
What year was Ithaca model 37 featherlight 16 gauge serial number 643679 made and what might it be worth in exc.condition?
16 gauge Model 37 Featherlight with no serial number Any ideas how old it would be not to have a serial number?
Ithaca started manufacturing the Mod 37 in 1937 with serial number 1. It has a serial number somewhere - look on the bottom of the receiver. Go here to determine the date of manufacture: http://www.diamondgunsmithing.com/
What is the value of Ithaca model 37 featherlight 16 gauge serial 581178-2?
well i wanted to know what my 16 gauge featherlight Ithaca how old it was and how much it was worth i called Ithaca arms gun co. out of Ohio because they are no longer made in Ithaca New York so that's your best bet
What is the year of a 20 gage pump model 37 featherlight Ithaca Serial no 371136722?
First your Ithaca 20 gauge model 37 was made in 1969 and for the guy with the 371377097 your gun was made in 1974 I have model 37 serial 371473XXX and it was made in 1975. I have a Ithaca featherlight serial no 371377097 and it was built in the mid 60s. I found it on the Ithaca web site a few years ago, when there still was a web site. But have never found… Read More
What is the value of a Ithaca model 37 featherlight Deer Slayer pump-action 16 gauge shotgun with a modified choke 28inch barrel serial number 371140832?
What year is an Ithaca serial number of 327286?
You would need to include the model number or name of your Ithaca firearm,along with the serial number to get the correct answer.
What is the value of a Ithaca model 37 featherlight?
How old is a Ithaca hammerless double barrel with serial number 88766?
Your serial number indicates that you have a Ithaca crass model double,that was made in 1903.
How do you know how old your Ithaca gun is?
You can tell how old your Ithaca gun is by the model and serial number
What is the value of a model 37 12gage serial number 756210-2 Ithaca featherlight?
Depending on its condition... and if it have engraving,90-98% with no ingraving in the magezine would bring between $250.00 and $500.00..depending on where it was sold..
What is the value of Ithaca model 37 featherlight 12 gauge shotgun SN 371269762 stock has minor scratches barrel shows some wear?
The Ithaca model 37 feather-light 12 gauge shotgun serial number 371269762 is valued at $200 in fair condition. In good condition, it is valued at $925.
What is the age and value of an Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 12 gauge shotgun serial 530874-4?
Double check that number, I cant recall any hypenated serial numbers on Ithacas. In any event, Ithaca 37's in 12ga, field grade, sell in the $150-$300 range. [email protected]
What year was Ithaca model 37 serial number 371081657 made?
Made in 1969. Info from Ithaca Gun Co. serial number check chart.
What is the date of manufacture of a model 37 Ithaca SN 604349?
The serial number indicates Ithaca manufactured your Model 37 in 1956.
When was an Ithaca model 37 featherlight 12 gauge serial number 4870xx-x made Any idea of its value?
Made in 1952. Value is based on several variables, including condition. $300, and up or down from there.
What year is a 12 gauge Ithica Model 37 featherlight serial number 867707?
What is the age of a 12 gauge Ithaca double barrel serial number 285582?
It sounds to me that you have a Ithaca Flues model double barrel shotgun.With the serial number that you provided,your shotgun was made by Ithaca in 1917.
What is the age of a model 37 featherlight Ithaca shotgun SN 371213492?
You will need to contact Ithaca. Published sn's do not go that high.
What is the age of a Ithaca hamerless double barrel shotgun with a serial number of 91318?
It sounds as if you have a Ithaca Crass model shotgun,that was produced in the year 1903 by your serial number.
What is the age of an Ithaca model 37 serial number 704515-2?
Ithaca Model 37 Parts
I am aware of no public listing of Model 37 manufacture dates, but IDSA Books publishes Ithaca Featherlight Repeaters. They're on the net. My info says 1957, but I have no clue what the -2 suffix means. The -2 suffix indicates barrel belonging to shotgun 704515
What is the value of a Ithica featherlight model 37 serial number 433996?
Did Ithaca Guns make the Featherlight Model 37 in 28 gauge and .410?
Yes, they did make a 28 guage pump featherlight. I have one myself
What year was Ithaca model 37 serial number 586245 made?
The serial number indicates your gun was made in 1955.
What year was Ithaca Model 37 serial 371090697 made?
The serial number indicates your Model 37 was manufactured in late 1969.
What is the age of your Ithaca 12 ga double serial number 267416?
By your description,it sounds as if you have a Ithaca model Flues double barrel shotgun that with that serial number was produced in the year 1914.
What is the value of a 1938 Ithaca model 37 12 GA featherlight with the hunting scene engraving serial number 3899?
If the gun is in very good condition it would probably bring between $350 and $500. Watch the auctions at www.gunbroker.com for comparables.
What year was Ithaca model 37 serial number 371617409?
What is the age of an Ithaca model 37 serial number 929365?
What years were the Ithaca Model 51 Featherlight 12 gauge shotguns produced?
How old is a model 37 featherlight serial number 381007688 and what is its value?
What is the age and value of an Ithaca Featherlight Deerslayer 12ga 234 pump model 371564993?
The Featherlight Deerslayer 12 gauge is a hunting rifle made by the Ithaca Gun Company. These guns are very modern and are worth around 1,000 dollars.
What year was the Ithaca shotgun serial number 10464 made?
A model 37 with the serial # 10464 was produced in 1939.
Can you give you a history on an Ithaca model 37 serial 1849982?
That is not the serial number. It is the Patent Number. The serial number is found below this number. The Model 37 I have has this patent number on it and the serial number is 24071. I would also like to know the manufacture date of this rifle.
How can you tell the model and year of an Ithaca shotgun?
look on the Side of the recevier there should be a Serial Number on the older Ithaca Model 37 the serial Number was stamped on the receiver by the magazine tune and Barrel . also if you take the barrel off on the bottom of the barrel you'll find the matching serial Number. then look up WWW.SURPLUSRIFLEFORUM.COM in their search engine type in ITHACA 37 DOM match your shotguns Serial number up with their chart… Read More
What is the age of a Ithaca double shotgun with serial number 121411?
Ithaca Model 37 | |
---|---|
Type | Shotgun |
Place of origin | United States |
Production history | |
Designer | John Browning, Harry Howland |
Designed | 1933 |
Manufacturer | Ithaca Gun Company Industrias Marcati |
Produced | 1937–present |
Variants | Bataan Modelo 71, Ithaca Model 87 |
Specifications | |
Mass | Varies |
Length | 760mm-1006mm |
Barrel length | 13 inches (330 mm) to 30 inches (760 mm) |
Cartridge | 12, 16, 20, or 28 gauge |
Barrels | Plain Ribbed Rifled |
Action | Manually operated, pump-action |
Feed system | 4, 5, or 7-round tubular magazine (riot, standard, and extended tube versions) |
The Ithaca 37 is a pump-action shotgun made in large numbers for the civilian, military, and police markets. It utilizes a novel combination ejection/loading port on the bottom of the gun which leaves the sides closed to the elements. Since shotshells load and eject from the bottom, operation of the gun is equally convenient for both right and left hand shooters. This makes the gun popular with left-handed shooters.
History[edit]
The Ithaca 37 is based on a 1915 patent by firearms designer John Browning, initially marketed as the Remington Model 17. The Model 17 was a 20-gauge of trim proportions, which Remington later redesigned and refined into the popular side-ejecting Remington Model 31. The Model 31 would eventually be replaced in production by the Remington 870 which was less expensive to manufacture.
Following the First World War, the Ithaca Gun Company was searching for a pump-action shotgun to produce, primarily to compete with the ubiquitous Winchester Model 1912. They settled on waiting for Remington Model 17 patents to expire. After gearing for production of the Ithaca Model 33, they discovered a Pedersen patent that would not expire until 1937; along with the introduction date, they changed the model designation from 33 to 37.
With the depression dragging on and war looming on the horizon, it was possibly the worst time to introduce a sporting arm. Many sporting arms ceased production entirely during the same period. While Ithaca did produce some shotguns for military use during the war, they also produced M1911 pistols and M3 submachine guns.
After World War II, Ithaca resumed production of the Model 37. Made in many different models, the Ithaca 37 has the longest production run for a pump-action shotgun in history, surpassing that of the Winchester Model 12 that had originally inspired Ithaca to produce pump-action shotguns. Ithaca has suffered many setbacks in its history, changing hands numerous times. At one time, the Ithaca 37 was renamed the Model 87, although it was soon changed back in one of many ownership changes. Production paused in 2005 when Ithaca once again changed hands. Production has resumed in Upper Sandusky, Ohio.
According to an article by the Ithaca Times dated June 11th, 2003, the one-millionth model 37 was produced in 1968, and as of 2003, more than 2,000,000 model 37's have been produced. The Ithaca 37 is the only pre-World War II shotgun still in production.
Users[edit]
The Model 37 was used by the United States armed forces in World War II, the Korean War, and especially the Vietnam War, where it gained a great reputation for reliability in the jungles of Vietnam. The largest single users outside the US Military were the New York City Police Department in 2 versions- 13' barrel with forend hand-strap for the Emergency Service Unit and 18' barrel for the Highway Patrol and in a short-lived program spanning from the late 1970s to early 1980s by designated low crime precinct solo patrol officers; and the Los Angeles Police Department. The Ithaca was issued by the LAPD beginning in the 1940's and remained in service until the late 1990's. Along with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, numerous other users include military, police, security agencies, and prisons around the world. The Ithaca 37 remains a popular choice among civilians for both sport and personal protection. The Model 37 featherlight was commonly seen in the hands of farmers and hunters in the midwestern United States.
Operation[edit]
Loading the Ithaca 37 involves inserting shotshells of the proper gauge through the loading/ejection port in the bottom of the receiver and pushing them forward into the magazine until retained by the shell stop. The slide release is pressed and the slide retracted completely then pushed forward.Pulling the trigger fires the gun and releases the slide for reloading. On most models up to 1975, a second sear was installed that would drop the hammer as soon the gun went into battery if the trigger was in a depressed condition. Thus, holding the trigger down allowed the gun to fire the instant a new round is cycled into the chamber without requiring the trigger to be released; this feature was called 'slam-fire'. Otherwise, the model 37 operates in much the same way as other pump-action shotguns.
Selected versions[edit]
![Ithaca Ithaca](https://auctionimages.s3.amazonaws.com/46331/82007/71692443.jpg)
Ithaca Model 37 Trench Gun Serial Numbers
- S-prefix: were manufactured for a 1962 United States military contract. S-prefixed serial numbers ran from approximately 1,000 to 23,000 with 'U.S.' on the receiver and 'P' proof markings on the barrel and receiver. The guns have a Parkerized finish with a 20 inches (51 cm) barrel and plain stock with plastic butt plate and no sling swivels. A few later contracts produced smaller numbers of guns with sling swivels and serial numbers in the high 900,000 range. Some had 'duckbill spreader' shot diverters for use by United States Navy SEALs. Others were fitted with a ventilated handguard and bayonet adapter. New bayonets were manufactured by General Cutlery, Inc. and Canada Arsenal, Ltd.[1]
- Ultralite: an aluminum receiver variation.
- Deerslayer: a version with a shortened barrel and rifle-style sighting system.
- DSPS: for Deerslayer Police Special. A military and police version
- Stakeout: short version with a 13 inches (330 mm) barrel and pistol grip stock, which was notable for being the signature weapon for Ricardo Tubbs, Philip Michael Thomas' character on Miami Vice as well as being the secondary weapon of Corporal Hicks in Aliens (although it was technically a modified hunting variant) and Aliens: Colonial Marines, where it has the words 'no fate' carved into the top, a reference to Michael Biehn's role in The Terminator. Because of its barrel length and overall length, this model is classified as a National Firearms Act 'any other weapon' and must be registered with ATF.
- 28 Gauge: 28 gauge model built on traditional size 28 gauge receiver.[2]
- Defense: an affordable 12 or 20 gauge model built for home defense purposes. 18.5' barrel with 5-round capacity or 20' barrel with 8-round capacity. Essentially the same as the Model 37 M&P's used by military and police for many years.
Argentinian variants[edit]
An unlicensed, near identical copy known as the Bataan Modelo 71 is manufactured by the Argentinian firm Industrias Marcati.[3][4][5]
See also[edit]
Notes[edit]
- ^Canfield, Bruce N. American Rifleman (March 2002) pp. 44-47 & 92-95
- ^[1][dead link]
- ^'Archived copy'. Archived from the original on 2011-07-21. Retrieved 2011-06-19.CS1 maint: Archived copy as title (link)
- ^'Archived copy'. Archived from the original on 2012-04-05. Retrieved 2011-06-19.CS1 maint: Archived copy as title (link)
- ^'Archived copy'. Archived from the original on 2012-04-05. Retrieved 2011-06-19.CS1 maint: Archived copy as title (link)
References[edit]
- Fawcett, Bill. Hunters & Shooters, An Oral History of the U.S. Navy SEALS in Vietnam. NY: Avon Books, 1995. ISBN0-380-72166-X, pp. 79–80, especially.
- Snyder, Walter C. Ithaca Featherlight Repeaters, The Best Gun Going. NC: Cook and Uline Pub, 1998. ISBN0-9629469-1-5
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