1949 Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Standard Grade 20 Gauge Pump-Action Shotgun – Factory Engraved, Bottom Eject, Slam-Fire Capable
This 1949 Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Standard Grade is an early, factory-engraved 20 gauge pump shotgun that combines John Browning’s bottom-eject design with Ithaca’s light, fast-handling Featherlight build. It features Bill McGraw’s dog and duck scene engraving, the original 26-inch plain field barrel, and retains the sought-after slam-fire trigger. An aftermarket Pachmayr ventilated recoil pad brings the length of pull to 14 inches, while the classic 15-groove corncob forend and walnut stock keep the gun’s vintage character intact.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Shows extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: Metal surfaces show widespread finish loss with scattered light rust and small areas of pitting. Stock and forend display scratches and blemishes consistent with field use. The factory brass bead front sight is missing. Pachmayr recoil pad with spacers is professionally installed.
What’s Included
- Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Standard Grade 20 gauge pump-action shotgun (serial 2753xx, 1949 production)
- Aftermarket Pachmayr ventilated recoil pad with spacers (installed)
- Magazine plug limiting capacity to 2+1 rounds (installed)
Introduced in 1937, the Ithaca Model 37 quickly earned a reputation for smooth cycling and reliable extraction. This 1949 example sits within the early post-war production block and retains the original carbon-steel receiver and barrel, both finished in blue.
Bill McGraw’s factory engraving adds collectibility. The right side displays a pointing dog scene, while the left shows three ducks over marsh grass—classic motifs for Standard Grade guns of the era.
At roughly 6 pounds, the Featherlight lives up to its name. The bottom-eject system clears hulls downward, keeping the shooter’s line of sight unobstructed and making the gun friendly to both right- and left-handed users.
The 26-inch plain barrel is chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells and feeds from a tubular magazine currently limited to two rounds by a plug, giving a total capacity of 2+1. The slam-fire trigger allows continuous fire while the action is cycled with the trigger held back—an original feature often deleted on later Model 37s.
An aftermarket Pachmayr recoil pad and spacers extend the length of pull to 14 inches, adding comfort while maintaining the gun’s field balance. The walnut stock and 15-groove corncob forend preserve the classic look that has made the Model 37 a favorite among upland hunters and collectors alike.