Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Field 16 Gauge Pump-Action, 28" Plain Modified, 2 3/4" Chamber, 1949, Factory-Engraved, Bottom-Eject
This 1949 Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Field is a 16-gauge, bottom-eject pump-action with the classic 28-inch plain steel barrel and fixed Modified choke. It features factory roll engraving on the blued steel receiver, a matted anti-glare strip on top, and walnut furniture with a checkered pistol-grip stock and corn-cob forend. The chamber is 2 3/4 inches, capacity is 4+1, and the trigger retains the original no-disconnector design.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Specific Condition Notes: The firearm is structurally solid. There are scratches and blemishes, along with areas of surface pitting. A large section of the stock has broken off behind the receiver.
What's Included
- Aftermarket ventilated recoil pad (orange), installed on buttstock
- Walnut stock chip from pistol-grip/wrist area
Built in the post-WWII era, this Featherlight Field retains hallmark Model 37 features: bottom-eject and bottom-load operation, a 4+1 tubular magazine, and the standard Ithaca takedown system with barrel/magazine yoke. The 28-inch plain barrel with a fixed Modified choke and front bead sight provides a straightforward field setup in 16 gauge with a 2 3/4-inch chamber.
The receiver is blued steel with a matted anti-glare strip and light factory roll-engraved hunting scene. Walnut furniture includes a checkered pistol-grip butt and a corn-cob grooved forend. An aftermarket ventilated recoil pad is installed, and the length of pull measures 14.5 inches.
The action uses Ithaca’s original trigger system without a disconnector, allowing slam-fire capability when the trigger is held as the action is cycled. This configuration, combined with the bottom-eject design, is a defining characteristic of early Model 37s.
Markings include the two-line arched "PROOF" over "TESTER" stamp. Barrel serial marking indicates the pre-855,000 matching-barrel era. Manufactured in the United States.