Number Lookup Portable — Ithaca Model 49 Serial

If your serial number is very low (under 10,000, roughly), or if it has specific high-end features, it might be a First Model, imported from Germany.

The Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup portable is not a one-click app but a knowledge toolkit: understanding pre-1968 vs. post-1968 serialization, carrying a printed production table, and recognizing physical features. With this write-up and a small reference card, any collector or shooter can confidently date an Ithaca Model 49 anywhere—no WiFi, no cellular signal, no problem.

Final portable tip: Take a photo of this write-up and the serial table, save it to your phone’s offline album, or print it wallet-sized. Happy hunting.

Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup: A Comprehensive Guide to Portable Shotguns

The Ithaca Model 49 is a popular portable shotgun known for its reliability, durability, and versatility. Manufactured by Ithaca Gun Company, Inc. from 1961 to 1978, this firearm has gained a loyal following among hunters, sport shooters, and collectors. One of the most critical aspects of owning an Ithaca Model 49 is understanding its serial number and the significance it holds. In this article, we will explore the world of Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup, providing you with a comprehensive guide to tracing the history of your portable shotgun.

History of the Ithaca Model 49

The Ithaca Model 49 was introduced in 1961 as a more affordable and lightweight alternative to traditional shotguns. Its design was influenced by the Remington Model 11, but with some notable improvements. The Model 49 featured a rugged, reliable, and easy-to-use design, making it an instant hit among outdoor enthusiasts. Over the years, the Model 49 underwent several design changes, including updates to the receiver, barrel, and stock.

Why is Serial Number Lookup Important?

The serial number of your Ithaca Model 49 is more than just a series of numbers; it holds the key to the firearm's history. By performing a serial number lookup, you can:

How to Perform an Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup

There are several ways to perform an Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup:

Decoding Ithaca Model 49 Serial Numbers

Ithaca Model 49 serial numbers typically consist of a combination of letters and numbers. The serial number is usually stamped on the receiver or barrel. Here's a breakdown of the serial number format: ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable

Keep in mind that Ithaca Gun Company used various serial number formats throughout the Model 49's production run. Consult a reliable source or expert if you're unsure about your firearm's serial number.

Portability and Versatility: The Ithaca Model 49's Design

The Ithaca Model 49's portability and versatility are key factors in its enduring popularity. This shotgun features:

These design features make the Ithaca Model 49 an ideal choice for hunting, target shooting, and home defense.

Conclusion

The Ithaca Model 49 is a legendary portable shotgun with a rich history and loyal following. By performing a serial number lookup, you can unlock the secrets of your firearm's past, including its production date, original configuration, and historical significance. Whether you're a collector, hunter, or sport shooter, understanding your Ithaca Model 49's serial number is essential to appreciating its value and heritage.

Additional Resources

For further information on Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup and the firearm's history, we recommend:

By exploring these resources and performing a serial number lookup, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for your Ithaca Model 49 and its place in firearms history.

The Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" was produced between 1960 and 1979. Determining the exact age of your rifle requires locating the serial number—typically on the left side of the receiver—and matching it against production records, which can be found in the Ithaca Serial Numbers Guide. Troubleshooting the Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup

Finding the manufacture date for this classic plinker is a common goal for collectors. Since over 500,000 were produced during its 20-year run, records are generally available but may require some digging. 1. Locate Your Serial Number Ithaca Model 49

, the serial number is most commonly stamped into the left side of the alloy receiver. On some variations, it may also be found on the barrel. If your serial number is very low (under

Action Type: This rifle features a single-shot falling block action operated by a lever, though it was designed with a faux magazine tube to resemble a Winchester '94.

Prefixes: Some models might include letter prefixes which help categorize the production run. 2. Match with Production Eras

While many Ithaca models have specific year-by-year tables, the is often categorized by major production milestones:

1960–1961: Initial launch of the single-shot .22 LR "Saddlegun". 1962–1969 : Production of the Model 49P (Presentation Grade) , which featured a gold-plated trigger and hammer. 1961–1978: The Model 49R (Repeater)

version was available for those wanting a tubular-fed magazine instead of a single shot.

Caliber Variants: The Model 49 was also produced in .22 Magnum and even as a .410 shotgun. 3. Professional Research Options

If your serial number doesn't appear in standard online charts, you can request an official factory letter:

Cody Firearms Records Office: They house many original Ithaca factory records. You can submit a search request through the Center of the West to get specific configuration and date data for your serial number. 4. Collector Value Indicators

Beyond the serial number, certain features can help date your rifle:

Receiver Finish: Early models used a paint-type finish on the aluminum alloy receiver that is prone to wear.

Wood Quality: Later models saw changes in wood types and the design of the faux magazine tube. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.

Determining the exact manufacture date of an Ithaca Model 49 How to Perform an Ithaca Model 49 Serial

via serial number can be difficult because production records for this model are notoriously incomplete

. However, the model's history provides a reliable framework for narrowing down its age. Production Overview Manufacturing Years: 1961 to 1978/1979. Total Produced: Over 500,000 units. The "No Serial Number" Rule: Rifles produced between 1961 and 1968

were often not serialized because the Gun Control Act (GCA) requiring them did not go into effect until 1968. If your rifle lacks a serial number, it was likely made during this early window. Identifying Your Serial Number

If your rifle has a serial number, look for these common formats and locations: Typically found on the Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the prefix followed by several digits. Repeating Model (49R):

Repeater versions (tube-fed) were introduced later and may follow a different sequence than the standard single-shot "Saddlegun". Reference Points for Dating

While no definitive yearly serial list exists for the Model 49, you can estimate based on design changes and known high/low numbers: 1962–1969:

Presentation grade models (gold-plated trigger/hammer) were primarily offered during this period. Late 1960s/Early 1970s:

The rear sight was updated from a folding buckhorn to a simpler flat-top sight, and wood changed from walnut to hardwoods like elm or birch. High Numbers: Observed serial numbers can reach as high as

, which would represent very late-stage production near 1978. Official Records

Ithaca 49 SS Take Down Manual | PDF | Gun Barrel | Rifle - Scribd

Features: Hardwood stock with pressed checkering and hard plastic butt plate. Aluminum Alloy receiver. Dove tail notch rear sight,

The vast majority of Model 49s found today are "Second Models." You can identify them by these features: