Finding the manufacturing date of your Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight shotgun can be a rewarding experience, connecting you with the history of your firearm. While Ithaca Gun Company doesn't offer an online database for serial number lookups, several methods can help you determine the approximate age of your shotgun. This guide will explore these methods, providing you with the knowledge and resources to successfully trace your Featherlight's history.
Understanding Ithaca Model 37 Serial Numbers
Ithaca Model 37 serial numbers aren't simply chronological; they often reflect the year and even the month of manufacture. However, the system wasn't entirely consistent throughout the gun's production lifespan. The complexity stems from Ithaca's production methods and changes over the years. Therefore, a precise date determination often requires a combination of approaches.
Factors Affecting Serial Number Interpretation:
- Production Year: Different years saw different numbering systems, making direct cross-referencing challenging.
- Production Run: The serial number range within a single year could be vast.
- Model Variations: Subtle variations within the Featherlight line (e.g., barrel length, stock type) don't significantly impact the serial number sequence.
Methods for Tracing Your Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight Serial Number
Several avenues can assist in your quest to date your firearm. Let's explore the most effective:
1. Consulting Ithaca Gun Collectors and Forums:
Online forums and communities dedicated to Ithaca shotguns are invaluable resources. Experienced collectors often possess extensive knowledge of serial number ranges and production dates. Engaging with these communities allows you to share your serial number and potentially receive expert guidance. Their collective knowledge can significantly narrow down the possible manufacturing year.
2. Examining Ithaca Gun Company Records (if available):
While Ithaca Gun Company no longer exists, some private collectors or archives might possess historical records. These records might include detailed production logs which could directly correlate serial numbers to manufacturing dates. Finding these records requires thorough research and persistence.
3. Utilizing Gun Value Resources and Books:
Several firearm valuation guides and reference books include information on Ithaca Model 37 shotguns. These resources often provide serial number ranges associated with specific production years. While not always precise to the month or even year, they offer a solid starting point for your research.
4. Contacting Firearm Appraisers or Historians:
Professional firearm appraisers and historians specializing in antique firearms possess considerable knowledge and access to resources unavailable to the average collector. They may be able to offer a more precise estimation of your shotgun's age based on the serial number and other identifying features.
Beyond the Serial Number: Identifying Features of Your Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight
While pinpointing the exact manufacturing date can be challenging, other aspects of your shotgun can provide additional clues. Consider these features:
- Proof Marks: These markings often indicate the year of testing and inspection.
- Barrel Markings: The barrel's markings can offer clues about the manufacturer and production period.
- Stock and Receiver Markings: Look for any markings on the stock or receiver that could indicate the date of manufacture or any modifications.
Conclusion: A Journey of Discovery
Dating your Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight is a journey that requires patience and resourcefulness. By combining the methods described above, you significantly increase the chances of uncovering your shotgun’s history. Remember that the process may involve multiple steps and might not always yield a precise date, but the effort will connect you with the rich heritage of this classic firearm. Happy hunting!
