1953 Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 16 Gauge Pump Shotgun — Bottom-Eject, Slam-Fire, 28 in Fixed IC
This 1953 Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Field Grade pairs the model’s famed bottom-ejection design with the less-common 16 gauge chambering. Built on a slick, dual-action-bar pump and still offering original slam-fire capability, it delivers the fast follow-up shots that made early Model 37s a favorite in the field. Crisp factory roll engraving, a polished blue finish, and matching walnut furniture highlight its collectible appeal.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – bright, clean, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: Light handling marks are visible on the receiver and barrel. Checkering on the walnut stock and corn-cob fore-end remains sharp, and the engraved marsh scene is well defined.
What’s Included
- Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Field Grade 16 Gauge pump-action shotgun
The 16 gauge chambered for 2 3/4 in shells adds scarcity to this already desirable early-1950s production run. With serial number 525213-2 falling squarely in the original slam-fire era, the gun allows the trigger to stay depressed while the action is cycled for rapid operation.
The 28 in steel barrel wears a fixed Improved Cylinder (IC) choke, giving a versatile pattern for upland game and small waterfowl. A single brass bead fronts the sighting plane, and the chamber is clearly marked “PROOF-TESTED 16 GA 2 3/4 IN”.
Ithaca’s bottom-eject system sends spent hulls straight down, making the shotgun naturally ambidextrous and keeping the receiver sides clean. The bolt locks directly into the receiver roof for added strength, and dual action bars keep the pump stroke smooth.
Factory machine-cut lightning-bolt checkering on the pistol-grip stock and the grooved corn-cob fore-end provide a secure hold. The blued steel receiver carries a detailed waterfowl marsh scene roll engraving that remains sharp and evenly finished.