Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup Portable

Scenario: You find an Ithaca Model 49 at a flea market. Serial number: 38421

Portable steps:

Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" was produced between 1960 and 1979

. While exact serial number databases for this specific model are notoriously difficult to find due to record gaps, you can determine its general age using the following production history and identification markers. Quick Production Timeline 1960–1968: Most early models were not serialized

. This is because the Gun Control Act of 1968 had not yet mandated serial numbers for all firearms. 1969–1979:

Models produced after 1968 will have a serial number, typically starting with the prefix 1976 & 1978:

There was no recorded production of certain Ithaca lines during these years. Ithaca Gun Company Identifying Your Model 49 Description Action Type Martini-style "falling block" single-shot. .22 Short, Long, Long Rifle, or .22 Magnum. Barrel Length Standard 18 or 18.5 inches.

Designed to look like a Winchester lever-action repeater, including a faux magazine tube. Specific Serial Examples & Records Recorded Serial Numbers: Users have documented numbers such as (.22 Mag) and (.22 Cal) in various valuation records. Official Search:

For a definitive history of your specific firearm, you can request an official Factory Search Factory Letter Cody Firearms Records Office

, which holds Ithaca records from 1886 through the mid-1980s. Manuals & Care: If you need to perform maintenance, consult the Ithaca 49 Take Down Manual for disassembly steps. Buffalo Bill Center of the West Estimated Values Based on historical bluebook data, a standard Model 49 in condition is typically valued between $110–$145

model (featuring a gold-plated trigger and hammer) can command a 20% premium JustAnswer Do you have a specific serial number you'd like to check against these production markers? Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.

Determining the exact manufacture date of an Ithaca Model 49

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 ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable

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,

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: Scenario: You find an Ithaca Model 49 at a flea market

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, produced between 1961 and 1978, is a classic single-shot .22 caliber rifle that remains a favorite for collectors and new shooters alike. Tracking its history through serial numbers can be complex, as record-keeping for this specific model is less centralized than for Ithaca's famous shotguns. Locating and Interpreting the Serial Number

For most Ithaca Model 49 rifles, the serial number is located on the left side of the receiver. However, it is important to note that rifles manufactured prior to the Gun Control Act of 1968 were often not serialized.

Prefix Identification: Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the digits "49" (e.g., 490xxxxxx).

Format: Later models may feature a longer string of digits, such as "490328869" or "490440838," typically found on the alloy receiver.

Magnum Models: Specific variations like the .22 Magnum (WMR) often fall within distinct numerical ranges, such as the 156,000 series. Determining Manufacture Date

Unlike many modern firearms, there is no automated "portable" online database that provides an instant date for every Ithaca Model 49. Instead, researchers rely on a combination of factory records and physical characteristics:

Official Records: The Cody Firearms Records Office holds the most comprehensive set of Ithaca factory ledgers, though availability for the Model 49 can be hit-or-miss. Physical Evolution: Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" was produced between 1960

Early Models (1961–mid-60s): Often featured walnut stocks and folding buckhorn rear sights.

Later Models: Transitioned to hardwood (elm or birch) and simplified flat-top rear sights.

Bicentennial Edition: A limited "St. Louis" bicentennial model was produced around 1976. Key Specifications & Action

The Model 49 is known for its Martini-style falling block action, which is operated by a lever that resembles a traditional Winchester repeater. Despite the "magazine tube" under the barrel, it is a single-shot rifle; the tube is purely aesthetic to give it a "Western" look. Because the receiver is made of a zinc-aluminum alloy, it is highly recommended to avoid frequent disassembly, as the soft material can wear easily at the pin locations.

For a formal verification of a specific serial number, contacting the Ithaca Gun Company or the Cody Firearms Museum is the most reliable method for collectors. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.

Dating an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" by its serial number requires examining its numbering format or physical characteristics.

The Ithaca Gun Company produced this incredibly popular .22 caliber rimfire rifle between 1961 and 1979. Because record-keeping for this budget-friendly model was notoriously inconsistent, a definitive, year-by-year master list does not exist in the public domain.

However, you can successfully narrow down its production timeframe by referencing this scannable field guide. � How to Date Your Ithaca Model 49 1. Check for the Presence of a Serial Number

No Serial Number: Manufactured between 1961 and 1968. Prior to the U.S. Gun Control Act of 1968, serial numbers were not required by law on rimfire rifles, and Ithaca did not serialize standard Model 49s during this era. Has a Serial Number: Manufactured between 1968 and 1979. 2. Decode the Serial Number Prefix

Prefix "490": Rifles starting with a 490 prefix (e.g., 490XXXXXX) are generally understood to be post-1968 standard production models. The "49" represents the model, and the following numbers are the sequential chronological unit count. 3. Observe Physical Design Transitions

If your rifle lacks a serial number, you can still estimate its age by its physical components:

Early Models (Roughly 1961 – Mid-1960s): Feature genuine American walnut stocks, a folding buckhorn rear sight, and a distinct barrel band with an integrated front sight.

Later Models (Late 1960s – 1979): Shifted to cheaper hardwoods (like elm or birch). The rear sight was simplified to a flat-top open sight, and the front sight was changed to a standard adjustable dovetail. 📊 Quick Reference Specifications Production Years 1961 to 1979 Action Type Lever-actuated Martini falling-block (Single Shot) Calibers .22 S/L/LR or .22 Magnum (Model 49 Magnum) Key Characteristic

A purely aesthetic, non-functional fake magazine tube to mimic classic Western repeaters. Receiver Material Zinc-aluminum alloy (Zamak). ⚠� Important Maintenance Note

📌 Do not routinely disassemble the receiver of an Ithaca Model 49. The frame is cast from a relatively soft zinc-aluminum alloy. Repeatedly driving the steel assembly pins in and out will quickly wallow out the holes, causing permanent mechanical looseness and cycling failures. Ithaca Model 49 - Gun Trader Shows

The Ithaca 49 was made from 1960 until 1979. It was a Martini style action that was operated by a lever. It would shoot 22 Shorts, Gun Trader Shows

| Your Goal | Recommended Action | |-----------|--------------------| | Quick date estimate in the field | Use physical feature chart (Section 4). | | Best possible date from serial number | Compare against collector tables (Section 3, Step 2). | | Official factory letter | Contact current Ithaca Gun Co. (low success rate for Model 49). | | True portable app lookup | None exists. Rely on printed reference or PDF of collector resources. |