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Copper BB
Posts: 5
Joined: Mon May 13, 2013 8:52 pm
PostPosted: Mon May 13, 2013 9:04 pm
Hello all. I just bought a Ithaca either Model 37 or 87 from a guy who was moving and didn't want to take it with him. The only number I can find on it is 5668 which is stamped on the end of the receiver where the barrel and rail slide in. It says Ithaca Gun Company then either Model 37 or 87 ( hard to read). It's a 12 gauge 2 3/4. It has a weird poly choke on the barrel (probably an add on). Duck engraving and checkered wood. Any ideas on how old this gun is and it's value.

.270 WIN
Posts: 218
Joined: Wed Dec 19, 2012 12:26 pm
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 10:45 am
It sounds like you have a very early model. The second year of manufacture of the Ithaca model 37. If the serial number is correct it was made in 1938. Good for you on a really great find. Donald

.270 WIN
Posts: 429
Joined: Sat Jan 21, 2012 8:50 am
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 2:36 pm
The above advise is sound. There should also be a serial number on the underside of the barrel. If it does not match the receiver have the head space checked before using the gun. Nice find.

Copper BB
Posts: 5
Joined: Mon May 13, 2013 8:52 pm
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 4:07 pm
Thanks all. I paid 185.00 for the gun. I am not really a Ithaca guy, but thought it was in pretty nice shape for an old gun. Since they probably didn't have adjustable chokes back in the 30's I imagine that was added on later. I'm looking for the serial number on the underside of the barrel but don't see it.

.270 WIN
Posts: 429
Joined: Sat Jan 21, 2012 8:50 am
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 7:17 pm
That is odd, all barrels had serial numbers on them clear threw the early 60's. The serial number on the barrel should have a dash and then another number indicating choke. -2 for example stands for modified. It is possible that the gun was ordered straight from the factory with a polychoke. There would still be a serial number on the barrel but no dash and another number. In order to remove the barrel the nut on the the end of the magazine tube must be turned clockwise. The barrel may then be turned counterclockwise a quarter turn and then pulled straight out of the receiver. You should be able to find the serial number then. Any pictures would help greatly.

Copper BB
Posts: 5
Joined: Mon May 13, 2013 8:52 pm
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 7:56 pm
Excellent. Thanks for the instructions. I popped the barrel off and the serial number 5668 is the same as the receiver. Just a hash mark above it. I grew up with 870's so I am new to the Ithacas. I will try to send some pics but the file sizes are all too big. Thanks again. Mike

Copper BB
Posts: 5
Joined: Mon May 13, 2013 8:52 pm
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 8:01 pm
The choke says "Polychoke Hartford, CONN"

.270 WIN
Posts: 429
Joined: Sat Jan 21, 2012 8:50 am
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 8:21 pm
If there are no choke markings on the barrel and no numbers after the dash on the barrel serial number then it came from the factory with a poly choke. In my personal opinion this gun has more value than a gun that was modified at a later date. The gun is also rather early. You have a nice piece.

Copper BB
Posts: 5
Joined: Mon May 13, 2013 8:52 pm
PostPosted: Tue May 14, 2013 8:29 pm
I guess they made polychoke s since the 20's. I didn't realize they have been around that long. The stock and forearm are pretty good, the bluing is pretty gray, but not terrible. Thanks for your help.
PostPosted: Sat May 18, 2013 8:12 pm
Welcome to the Ithaca Owners Forum !!

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