A Legacy of Ithaca: Roots of a Renowned Brand
The satisfying *shuck* of a pump-action shotgun. It’s a sound that evokes images of classic hunting, rugged outdoorsmanship, and a deep-rooted connection to American firearms history. Pump-action shotguns are renowned for their reliability, simplicity, and versatility, making them enduring favorites among hunters, sport shooters, and even those seeking a reliable home defense tool. Within this realm, the Ithaca Gun Company holds a special place, particularly for its contributions to the world of shotguns. This article will delve into a specific and highly prized model, exploring the history, features, performance, and enduring appeal of the Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump shotgun. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for anyone interested in learning more about this iconic firearm, whether you are a seasoned hunter, a dedicated collector, or simply intrigued by the legacy of American gunmaking.
The Ithaca Gun Company boasts a history that stretches back to the late 19th century. Founded in Ithaca, New York, the company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality firearms, particularly shotguns. Their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation solidified their position as a major player in the industry, producing arms sought after by hunters and sportsmen across the country. The brand’s longevity is a testament to its dedication to quality and its responsiveness to the changing demands of the market. From its humble beginnings, the Ithaca Gun Company carved a lasting legacy within the American firearms landscape.
The Ithaca 37, specifically, is a pivotal model in the company’s history, representing a hallmark of innovation and engineering. Born from the company’s quest to innovate and refine the shotgun design, the Ithaca 37 quickly gained a reputation for its robust build, smooth action, and unique bottom ejection design. This design feature, absent in other pump actions, offered several advantages, especially in terms of ambidextrous operation. The bottom ejection made it easier for both right- and left-handed shooters to operate and helped reduce the risk of spent shells ejecting into the shooter’s face. The Ithaca 37 also had other safety features, like the absence of a cross-bolt safety that could freeze in the cold. The Ithaca 37 established a standard for pump-action shotguns, and it’s the bedrock on which the company built its subsequent models, including various iterations of the Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump.
Unveiling the Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump: Models and Variations
The Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump isn’t a single model; rather, it encompasses a family of shotguns built around the 20-gauge platform, drawing on the heritage of the Ithaca 37 and incorporating various features that catered to diverse shooter needs. The most widely recognized and sought-after model is undoubtedly the Ithaca 37 Featherlight in 20 gauge. This particular variant is prized for its light weight, making it ideal for carrying over long distances, and its sleek design, which appealed to hunters across the board.
Beyond the Featherlight, Ithaca offered a variety of configurations, each with its unique characteristics. Variations emerged in barrel lengths, catering to specific hunting scenarios. Barrel lengths ranged from shorter options, suitable for close-range work in brushy areas, to longer barrels, perfect for upland game hunting where longer shots are necessary. The choice in barrel length provided shooters with flexibility.
Aesthetics played a key role as well. The company offered a range of finishes, from blued steel, offering a classic look, to more specialized finishes that provided added protection against the elements. Stock materials varied as well, with traditional walnut stocks offering a touch of elegance and feel, while synthetic stocks provided added durability and weather resistance. These variations, both in functionality and appearance, gave shooters a wide array of options to choose from, allowing them to select a shotgun that best suited their personal preferences and shooting needs. It’s this diversity that makes the Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump so popular and sought after.
An In-Depth Look: Features and Specifications
Understanding the mechanics of an Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump is essential to appreciating its functionality. At its heart, the pump-action mechanism is the key to its operation. The shooter manually cycles the action by sliding the fore-end back and forth, extracting the spent shell, ejecting it, and chambering a fresh round. This simple, direct system is known for its reliability. The smooth pump action of an Ithaca 20 gauge is a hallmark, making it exceptionally easy and quick to operate.
Another defining characteristic is the bottom ejection port. This design has several important implications. First, it makes the shotgun truly ambidextrous, allowing comfortable use by both right-handed and left-handed shooters. Second, it helps to keep debris and weather out of the action, contributing to reliability. It also helps to keep the shooter’s face clear of ejected shells.
The trigger pull on an Ithaca is often crisp and clean, enhancing the shooter’s ability to make accurate shots. The design offers a controlled firing experience. The safety mechanism on the Ithaca is generally located near the trigger guard.
Typical magazine capacity for most Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump models is 2+1, meaning the shotgun can hold two shells in the magazine tube, plus one in the chamber. The exact specifications, such as weight and overall length, vary depending on the specific model and barrel length. However, the general trend is toward a lightweight and balanced design, which contributes to its user-friendliness and all-day-long carry. These carefully designed features work together to create a classic firearm.
Experience in the Field: Performance and Handling
The real test of any shotgun comes in the field. The Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump delivers a shooting experience that has made it so popular. Its light weight and comfortable handling make it easy to carry and maneuver, which is crucial for hunters who may be covering considerable distances.
The 20 gauge itself offers an excellent balance between power and recoil. The recoil is typically manageable, even for smaller-framed shooters. The 20 gauge provides enough stopping power for a wide range of game, making it a versatile choice for upland birds, rabbits, squirrels, and other small game. This makes the Ithaca 20 Gauge a highly desirable option.
For hunting, the Ithaca excels. Its balance and pointability make it easy to track moving targets. The smooth pump action allows for quick follow-up shots if needed. The versatility of the 20-gauge chamber allows for the use of various loads, from lighter target loads to heavier hunting loads, providing options for different hunting scenarios.
While the Ithaca 20 Gauge is primarily designed for hunting, it’s possible to consider it for home defense, although that usage requires careful thought and adherence to local laws. Its reliability, ease of operation, and potential for rapid follow-up shots could make it a viable option. However, always ensure that you are thoroughly trained in its use and aware of all applicable legal and safety regulations.
The Balance of Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any firearm, the Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump possesses both advantages and disadvantages that potential owners should carefully consider.
The pros are numerous. The reliability of the pump-action design is a major selling point. Ithaca’s are known for their rugged build and their ability to function reliably in harsh conditions. The ease of use, with a simple pump action, makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced shooters. The balance and handling of the Ithaca 20 gauge are often praised, contributing to its comfortable shooting experience. The bottom ejection feature gives it an edge in flexibility. The brand’s legacy adds a certain allure. The historical significance and classic design make it a sought-after piece for collectors.
The disadvantages are comparatively fewer but still worth acknowledging. One potential concern is the age of some of the models. Older models may require more maintenance. Also, the Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump, although popular, is not as common as some other pump-action shotguns on the market. This can sometimes lead to a slightly higher price tag for desirable models.
Investing in an Ithaca: Collecting and Valuation
For those interested in owning an Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump, understanding the nuances of collecting and valuation is crucial. Rarity, condition, and the specific model all play key roles in determining value. Rare or limited-edition models, or those in excellent condition, will naturally command higher prices. Original factory finishes, complete with original accessories, can add to the collectibility.
The condition is a critical factor. A well-maintained shotgun with minimal wear will be significantly more valuable than one showing signs of heavy use. Checking the bore (the inside of the barrel) for pitting or damage is essential. Carefully examine the stock and fore-end for cracks, scratches, or repairs.
The best place to buy is typically gun shows, online auctions, and private sales. GunBroker and other online auction platforms can be great places to find both modern and vintage firearms. Before purchasing a shotgun, research the fair market price for the specific model and condition. Prices can vary, but a well-maintained Ithaca 20 gauge Featherlight, for example, in excellent condition, might fetch a price ranging from $400 to $1200, depending on its specific features and rarity.
For more in-depth information, a number of resources exist, including gun forums, online archives, and auction catalogs. These are all excellent sources for historical information, model-specific details, and pricing trends.
Keeping it Running: Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is essential for preserving the function and longevity of your Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump. Regular cleaning is critical. After each shooting session, the barrel should be thoroughly cleaned to remove powder residue and fouling. The action should be cleaned and lightly lubricated.
Use a high-quality gun cleaning kit, which typically includes a bore brush, patches, solvent, and lubricating oil. Disassembly is relatively simple for these shotguns, but always consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Lubrication is vital. Use gun oil or grease sparingly on moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Excess lubrication can attract dirt and grime, which can lead to malfunctions.
Proper storage is also key. Store your Ithaca in a safe, dry place. Ensure that the gun is unloaded before storing it. It’s best to store it in a gun safe or cabinet to prevent unauthorized access.
If you encounter any issues, such as failure to feed or eject, identify the problem and address it promptly. Common issues include worn parts, dirt build-up, and improper lubrication. Consult a qualified gunsmith for any repairs that are beyond your skill level.
Final Thoughts
The Ithaca 20 Gauge Pump stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of American craftsmanship and the practical design of pump-action shotguns. Its blend of reliability, ease of use, and classic aesthetics has made it a favorite among hunters and collectors for generations. The Ithaca 20 Gauge pump has earned its place as an enduring firearm. Its history is as rich as its functionality.
Whether you are a seasoned hunter, a collector searching for a piece of firearms history, or simply seeking a dependable shotgun, the Ithaca 20 Gauge pump offers a compelling choice. Its legacy, combined with its practical performance, makes it a shotgun that is sure to be enjoyed for years to come. The satisfying action, the smooth swing, and the proven reliability are elements that come together in an outstanding firearm.
