As of 2026, a used Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight typically sells for $500 to $1,200 depending on condition, age, and gauge, while new models range from $900 to $1,500.
Is the Ithaca 37 a good gun?
The Ithaca Model 37 is widely regarded as an excellent shotgun thanks to its reliability, simple pump action, and robust design.
Hunters and home-defense users love it for good reason—this thing rarely jams, even after decades of use. The 12-gauge version dominates the market, but you’ll also find 20-gauge and 28-gauge options if you prefer something lighter. Shooters rave about its balance and how it handles heavy loads without so much as a hiccup. Honestly, it’s one of those firearms that just works.
What year is my Ithaca Model 37?
The production year of your Ithaca Model 37 can be determined by matching the serial number to known production ranges.
| Year | Serial Range |
|---|
| 1946 | 92,000 – 115,350 |
| 1947 | 115,351 – 157,150 |
| 1948 | 157,151 – 202,950 |
| 1949 | 202,951 – 302,500 |
If your serial number doesn’t fit here, don’t panic. Pre-1946 models use a completely different numbering system—often starting in the low thousands. For those, you’ll need to check Ithaca’s official serial lookup or ask a certified appraiser to dig deeper.
Do they still make Ithaca 37?
Yes, the Ithaca Model 37 remains in production as of 2026 and is the only pre-World War II shotgun still being manufactured.
You can still buy one fresh off the line at Ithaca Gun Company’s factory in Upper Sandusky, Ohio. The company’s kept the classic design alive since 1937, tweaking materials here and there but never messing with what works. The Featherlight, Deerslayer, and other variants are all still available—just with modern touches.
How many shells does an Ithaca 37 hold?
The standard Ithaca Model 37 holds 4 shells in the tubular magazine (1 in the chamber + 3 in the tube).
Now, here’s where things get interesting. Trap and skeet models sometimes come with a shorter 2-shell magazine to follow competition rules. Want more capacity? Aftermarket tubes exist, but factory models stick to 4 rounds total. Always double-check your local hunting laws—some places have strict limits on magazine size.
What is a Ithaca Model 300 worth?
As of recent sales data, an Ithaca Model 300 typically sells for $350 to $1,500, depending on condition, gauge, barrel length, and configuration.
This recoil-operated semi-auto ran from 1968 to 1972 in 12 and 20 gauge with 26", 28", or 30" barrels. If you find one with the original box and papers, especially in excellent condition, expect to pay top dollar. Vent rib models are particularly desirable among collectors.
Where is serial number on Ithaca Model 37?
The serial number on an Ithaca Model 37 is located on the bottom right side of the receiver, near the chamber end.
Very early models might have it on the chamber end of the receiver, tucked between the magazine tube and barrel. Newer guns also get a stamp on the barrel lug and sometimes the trigger guard. If you’re squinting at your shotgun trying to find it, look low—right where the action meets the barrel.
When did they stop making Ithaca shotguns?
Ithaca stopped manufacturing shotguns at its King Ferry, New York plant in 2005.
That year marked the end of an era—the plant shut down, and production moved to Upper Sandusky, Ohio. The company’s headquarters stayed in Ohio, and the Model 37 kept rolling off the line there. So while the King Ferry facility is gone, the Model 37 lived on.
Are Ithaca shotguns made in USA?
Yes, all current Ithaca shotguns are manufactured in the United States, specifically at the Ithaca Gun Company facility in Upper Sandusky, Ohio.
They’re proud of their American-made roots and use domestically sourced materials whenever possible. It’s a nice change in an industry where so many firearms get outsourced overseas. If supporting U.S. manufacturing matters to you, this is one to consider.
What is a slam fire shotgun?
A slam fire shotgun is an unintended discharge that occurs when a round is chambered forcefully, often due to inertial firing of the primer without trigger pull.
This isn’t some rare malfunction—it’s a real hazard, especially in older or worn shotguns. Slam fires happen when you close the action too aggressively, causing the firing pin to strike the primer unintentionally. The NSSF has warned about this for years. Always inspect your firearm, handle it carefully, and never force the action shut.
Does Ithaca make semi auto shotguns?
Yes, Ithaca produces semi-automatic shotguns, including the Mag-10 and newer models.
If you need serious firepower, the Mag-10 is a beast—a gas-operated 10-gauge that handles 3.5-inch magnum loads like they’re nothing. Ithaca’s also expanded their semi-auto lineup for waterfowl, turkey, and big-game hunting where you need maximum payload capacity. These aren’t your grandpa’s shotguns—they’re built for today’s demands.
Where is the serial number on a Lefever Nitro Special?
The serial number on a Lefever Nitro Special is typically located on the water table, just ahead of the chamber.
Pre-acquisition Lefever sideplate guns (serials under 74,XXX) might have it on the sideplate or barrel instead. If the serial’s over 100,000, it’s an Ithaca-made Lefever and follows their standard numbering system. When in doubt, cross-reference with a trusted reference—these old guns can be tricky to date.
Who bought Ithaca shotguns?
General Recreation, Inc. acquired Ithaca Gun Company in 1967, and Ithaca Acquisition, Inc. moved operations to King Ferry, New York in 1987.
Ownership’s been a bit of a rollercoaster since then. The company’s now based in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, where it’s been for decades. Fun fact: the Model 37 got rebranded as the Model 87 during the King Ferry years. Today, Ithaca’s still an American firearms manufacturer—just under new ownership.
