Ithaca M-49 Saddle Gun .22 S/L/LR Lever-Action Falling Block Rifle, 18" Barrel
Introduced in 1961 as an affordable youth rifle, the Ithaca M-49 Saddle Gun pairs classic lever-action styling with a Martini-style falling block action. Its single-shot design accepts .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle cartridges, making it a versatile choice for plinking or small-game practice. The painted zinc-alloy receiver and faux magazine tube give the gun the look of a traditional Winchester while keeping weight and cost down. Produced through 1978 with more than 255,000 built, this example represents a uniquely American take on the .22 lever gun.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Shows extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks. Rifling: Fair – Worn with slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The exterior displays scattered scratches, blemishes, and areas of finish loss consistent with regular field use.
What’s Included
- Ithaca M-49 Saddle Gun rifle
The M-49 fires one round at a time, teaching careful shot placement and safe handling—qualities valued by generations of new shooters.
Its lever operates a smooth Martini-style falling block, an uncommon mechanism in lever guns that delivers reliable extraction and simple maintenance.
The 18" carbon-steel barrel keeps overall length compact while maintaining good sight radius with the bead front and buckhorn rear iron sights.
A hardwood stock and handguard provide a traditional feel, while the half-cock hammer notch offers an added layer of safety during carry.
With a 13.75" length of pull and full-size proportions, the rifle fits both younger shooters and adults looking for a lightweight, nostalgic rimfire.