A Legacy in Steel: History and Origins
The Ithaca Gun Company and Its Heritage
The Ithaca Gun Company, the entity behind the XL900, holds a prominent place in American firearms history. Their reputation for producing quality shotguns, particularly models like the Ithaca 37, is well-established. Founded in the late nineteenth century, Ithaca has consistently produced firearms that have found favor with hunters, law enforcement, and target shooters alike. Their commitment to quality and innovation has seen the company navigate through both boom and bust cycles in the firearms industry.
The XL900 Emerges
The Ithaca XL900 series, emerging during a different era, represented a new approach to shotgun design for the company. The XL900, with its emphasis on reliable performance and ease of use, was a significant addition to the Ithaca lineup. It sought to blend traditional craftsmanship with the advantages of modern technology and manufacturing processes. This focus made the XL900 series a popular option, particularly in the hands of hunters and recreational shooters.
The 20 Gauge Model
In the context of the Ithaca brand, the XL900 series provided a reliable and robust semi-automatic option for the discerning shooter. The goal was simple: create a shotgun that could deliver consistent performance in demanding environments. The introduction of the 20 gauge model, specifically, provided a more manageable alternative, offering the power and effectiveness of a shotgun without the heavy recoil sometimes associated with larger gauges. The XL900 aimed to appeal to a broad range of users, from upland bird hunters to those simply seeking a dependable firearm for recreational shooting.
Examining the Build: Features and Specifications
The Mechanical Heart
Let’s now examine the essential details that make up the Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge. A thorough understanding of its characteristics is crucial to appreciating its overall design and functionality. Beginning with the mechanical heart of the firearm, we find that the Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge operates on a gas-operated, semi-automatic system. This design uses the gases generated by firing a shell to cycle the action, loading the next round automatically. This feature allows for rapid follow-up shots, a significant advantage in various hunting and shooting scenarios. The receiver, typically constructed from high-quality steel, provides the robust core of the shotgun, housing the internal mechanisms and ensuring the overall strength and longevity of the firearm.
Barrel Length and Magazine Capacity
The barrel length options for the 20 gauge XL900 were thoughtfully chosen, catering to different user preferences and intended applications. Whether you prioritize maneuverability or longer-range effectiveness, the available lengths offered a balance for versatile use in various settings. The magazine capacity, a crucial element in determining how many rounds can be fired before reloading, usually allows for several shells, ensuring adequate firepower for hunting or target practice.
Design and Ergonomics
The ergonomics and overall design of the Ithaca XL900 are also worth considering. The stock material, often crafted from durable wood or synthetic polymers, contributes significantly to the shotgun’s aesthetic appeal and handling characteristics. Wooden stocks provide a traditional look and feel, while synthetic stocks offer enhanced weather resistance and durability. These design choices reflect the manufacturers desire to create a versatile shotgun. The overall weight and balance of the XL900, particularly the 20 Gauge variant, were carefully considered to allow for comfortable handling, minimizing fatigue during extended use in the field.
Key Components and Features
Regarding integral features, the XL900 often includes standard sights to assist the user with targeting. The included choke system provides an added degree of versatility by controlling the spread of the shot pattern. The recoil pad, positioned at the butt of the stock, is designed to absorb some of the impact generated during firing, providing more comfort for the shooter. The trigger mechanism provides a crisp and consistent pull, improving the shooter’s ability to control the shot placement. Overall, the features of the XL900 20 Gauge were carefully chosen to maximize performance and user experience.
In the Field: Performance and Handling
Shooting Experience
The ultimate test of any firearm lies in its performance. The Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge shines when put to the test, offering the user a well-balanced and enjoyable shooting experience. One of the most noticeable aspects is the felt recoil. The 20 gauge is inherently lighter, making it easier to handle, and the semi-automatic design helps mitigate recoil further. This aspect makes the XL900 comfortable to shoot for extended periods, reducing the strain on the shooter and allowing for faster follow-up shots.
Accuracy and Patterning
Accuracy and pattern consistency are crucial for any shotgun, and the XL900 20 Gauge typically delivers satisfying results. With the appropriate choke selection, the shotgun produces tight and consistent patterns, which are crucial for success in hunting scenarios or target shooting. It is known for hitting its mark. The ease of loading and unloading adds to the overall convenience, enabling quick reloading in a variety of situations.
Hunting and Target Shooting
The XL900 20 Gauge’s versatility makes it well-suited to many applications. For hunters, it can serve admirably in pursuit of upland birds, such as quail, grouse, and pheasant. Its manageable size and weight, coupled with the appropriate load selection, make it a great choice. For the dedicated hunter, the XL900 provides a reliable companion in the field. Its lighter profile also makes it suitable for use in small game hunting. Although the XL900 was not explicitly designed for high volume target shooting, it also performs well in such events, particularly when paired with suitable ammunition.
Reliability and Durability
Reliability and durability are critical factors when considering a firearm. The XL900, as a whole, maintains a good reputation in this area. The materials used and the design of the action contribute to the long-term functionality of the shotgun. While regular maintenance is necessary, the XL900 can withstand use over many years.
Balancing Act: The Strengths and Weaknesses
The Pros
Like any product, the Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge has its strengths and weaknesses. Examining both sides allows for a more informed evaluation. The advantages of the XL900 are several. It is generally recognized for being a reliable shotgun. The semi-automatic system, along with its robust construction, contributes to its consistent performance, even when exposed to harsh conditions. The handling is another major selling point. The 20 gauge variant offers a lighter and more balanced feel, making it easy to carry and maneuver. Overall the design contributes to comfortable shooting sessions.
The Cons
On the other hand, there are certain potential disadvantages to consider. The primary concern is its age. As the XL900 is no longer in production, finding one in good condition may require careful consideration, and sourcing replacement parts could prove challenging. Despite these downsides, the XL900 still maintains its popularity.
Comparing the Field: The XL900 Versus the Competition
The Remington 870
To better understand the Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge, comparing it to other popular shotguns in the same class can be insightful. Two popular competitors for comparison are the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500. The Remington 870, a pump-action shotgun, holds a solid reputation for its durability and affordability. In contrast, the XL900, being a semi-automatic, offers faster follow-up shots and potentially less recoil, but the cost and maintenance can be higher.
The Mossberg 500
The Mossberg 500 also has a notable following and provides reliability. While both are good choices, each has a niche that it fills, depending on the user’s needs. The XL900, particularly the 20 gauge model, offers a more refined experience.
Where to Look: Purchasing and Pricing
Availability
If you’re interested in acquiring an Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge, the good news is that you can still find them, despite the fact they are no longer in production. However, it may require some searching. Gun shows, online auction sites, and specialized gun stores are your best bet. Due to its collector status, the XL900 may be more easily found.
Condition and Inspection
When considering a purchase, always carefully inspect the shotgun’s condition. Look for any signs of wear and tear, paying particular attention to the barrel and the action.
Pricing Factors
The price of an Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge can vary greatly depending on condition, rarity, and any special features. A shotgun in excellent condition, with little to no wear and tear, will generally command a higher price than one that has seen more use. Rare or limited-edition models may also be priced higher due to their collector value. It’s important to research current market prices before making a purchase, ensuring you’re paying a fair price for the specific shotgun.
Final Assessment: Conclusion
The Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Ithaca Gun Company and a reliable firearm for many. Its gas-operated, semi-automatic system coupled with its manageable 20 gauge design, makes it a versatile choice. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter seeking a dependable companion or an enthusiast looking to add a classic to your collection, the XL900 offers a compelling package.
The XL900 excels as a field gun. For those seeking ease of handling and manageable recoil, the 20 gauge model provides a great alternative. Its balance, reliability, and overall construction make it suitable for a wide range of activities. If you’re considering acquiring an Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge, consider your specific needs and budget. Careful research and a thorough inspection will help you find a shotgun that meets your expectations. Whether you’re chasing upland game or seeking a dependable firearm for recreational shooting, the Ithaca XL900 20 Gauge remains a worthy choice.
