Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun, 28-Inch Barrel, 1949 Production
Produced in 1949, this Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight combines the shotgun’s classic bottom-eject design with a factory roll-engraved hunting scene that was discontinued on later receivers. Its plain 28-inch barrel carries a fixed Modified choke, and the early pre-1955 fixed-barrel construction enhances rigidity. A period-appropriate corn-cob walnut forend and checkered walnut pistol-grip stock retain the Model 37’s signature handling feel, while an aftermarket ventilated recoil pad brings added shooting comfort without altering stock geometry.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
What’s Included
- Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 12 Gauge pump shotgun with aftermarket ventilated recoil pad installed
This Featherlight is a true bottom-load, bottom-eject design, making it equally friendly to right- and left-handed shooters while keeping spent hulls away from the shooter’s line of sight. The action retains its original slam-fire capability, allowing continuous fire by holding the trigger while cycling the pump—an iconic feature valued by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The receiver’s factory roll-engraved marsh scene with flying ducks highlights a production era when Ithaca offered such embellishment as standard. Later guns omitted this detail, giving 1940s examples added collector appeal.
Serial number 279xxx confirms 1949 manufacture, placing this shotgun among the early fixed-barrel variants produced before Ithaca adopted interchangeable barrels in 1955. The steel barrel’s Modified choke provides versatile patterning for upland game and general field use.
The corn-cob forend and checkered walnut stock remain crisp, preserving the model’s traditional look and ergonomic grip. A modern “Signature” ventilated pad (13.75-inch length of pull) softens recoil for contemporary shooting without detracting from vintage aesthetics.