A Legacy Forged in Steel and Wood
The crisp autumn air, the rustling leaves underfoot, the anticipation of flushing birds—these are the sights and sounds that define the upland hunting experience. And for many, the perfect companion in this pursuit isn’t just a shotgun; it’s a legend. The Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge. This review delves deep into this iconic firearm, examining its history, features, performance, and value, ultimately determining whether it still holds its place as a classic upland hunting shotgun.
The Ithaca Gun Company’s History
The story of the Ithaca Featherlight begins with the Ithaca Gun Company, a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship in the firearms industry. Founded in the mid-1800s, Ithaca rapidly gained a reputation for producing robust and reliable shotguns. The company’s dedication to quality and innovation led to some of the most iconic firearms in American history. The Featherlight series, born from a desire for a lighter, more agile shotgun, was a brilliant response to the needs of hunters who prized maneuverability and ease of carry, especially when traversing miles of challenging terrain.
The design philosophy behind the Featherlight was simple: create a shotgun that was light, fast-handling, and exceptionally reliable. This philosophy, combined with meticulous attention to detail, is why the Ithaca Featherlight quickly became a favorite among upland hunters nationwide. It was a gun designed to be carried all day, ready at a moment’s notice. And it continues to be appreciated by many.
Understanding the Anatomy: Features and Design
One of the first things that strikes you about the Ithaca Featherlight, particularly the 20 Gauge model, is its remarkably light weight. This is no accident. Every design element has been carefully considered to minimize weight without sacrificing durability. The choice of materials, the streamlining of the action, and the careful selection of stock dimensions all contribute to its featherweight feel. This characteristic is crucial for hunters who spend hours walking through fields, hills, and forests. The less weight carried, the more energy saved, and the sharper the focus at the moment of truth.
The Receiver and Action
The receiver, the heart of the shotgun, may be constructed from high-quality steel in older models and often aluminum alloy in more modern iterations, demonstrating its reliability and ability to withstand the rigors of regular use. The action, usually a pump-action, is known for its smooth and dependable cycling. The engineering is often praised for its straightforward design, contributing to its reliability, a quality paramount for hunters in the field.
The Barrel and Choke
The barrel, crafted with precision, is a key component in delivering accurate shots. The available choke options play a critical role in controlling the spread of the shot. A tighter choke can be employed for longer shots, while a more open choke might be favored for close-range flushes. Understanding and selecting the right choke is an essential part of mastering the Featherlight’s performance.
Stock, Forend, and Sights
The stock and forend are usually constructed from wood, showcasing the aesthetic appeal of the Featherlight. The ergonomics are well-considered, with a design focused on comfort and control. The stock is often finely checkered, providing a secure grip in all weather conditions. The forend, usually shaped for easy handling, allows for quick and effortless reloading. The sights are often a simple bead, providing a clear and uncluttered sight picture. While some shooters may prefer more advanced sights, the simplicity of the bead sight complements the overall design philosophy of the Featherlight, prioritizing speed and ease of use. The balance of the gun is remarkable. It feels lively in the hands, and swings naturally onto the target.
Safety Features
Safety features are also important. Ithaca Featherlights often incorporate a crossbolt safety.
On the Range and in the Field: Performance and Handling
The true measure of any shotgun lies in its performance. The Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge delivers a shooting experience that is both enjoyable and effective. The relatively light weight contributes to a lively feel, allowing for quick shouldering and pointing.
Accuracy and Recoil
Accuracy is consistent, thanks in part to the quality barrel and appropriate choke selection. Of course, the shooter’s skill plays a significant role, but the Featherlight provides a platform that allows for consistent hits. Experimentation with different ammunition types and choke combinations is crucial to finding the optimal setup for your hunting style and the specific game you are pursuing. Recoil, manageable given the 20 Gauge configuration, is still noticeable, though not punishing. The design of the stock and the overall balance of the gun mitigate the effects, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. This is a notable advantage when a hunter puts hundreds of shells through the gun during a season.
Suitability for Upland Hunting
The Featherlight excels in upland hunting scenarios. Its lightweight design and nimble handling make it ideal for navigating dense cover and quickly mounting the gun to take a shot. Whether hunting pheasant, grouse, quail, or other upland game, the Featherlight is a pleasure to carry and shoot. The ease of carrying the gun throughout the day makes it the hunter’s friend.
Feeding the Beast: Ammunition Compatibility
The Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge is designed to use the standard 20-gauge shotgun shells. Familiarity with the various shell sizes and loads available is key to maximizing its performance. This includes the shot size, the shot weight, and the velocity, all which can influence performance.
Shell Size and Type
For upland hunting, a range of shell types and shot sizes is often recommended. For lighter game like quail or dove, smaller shot sizes (e.g., 7 ½ or 8 shot) might be appropriate. For larger birds, like pheasant, you might choose a larger shot size (e.g., 6 or 5 shot) for a stronger pattern at a longer distance. The use of steel shot is often mandated in specific public hunting areas, so familiarity with this aspect is necessary for any hunting situation.
Lead vs. Non-Lead Considerations
In some regions, restrictions on the use of lead shot are in place, necessitating the use of non-lead alternatives. Understanding these regulations and choosing appropriate ammunition is an important responsibility for any hunter. Modern non-lead ammunition has improved greatly in performance, providing options that are just as effective as lead, but at a higher price point.
Built to Last: Durability and Maintenance
The longevity of the Ithaca Featherlight is a testament to its build quality. The robust construction, with quality materials and meticulous manufacturing, ensures that the gun will withstand years of use and enjoyment.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Proper maintenance is vital. Regular cleaning is important to remove residue from spent shells, gunpowder, and any other debris that can affect function. Lubrication is also necessary. A light coat of gun oil will prevent rust and keep the moving parts operating smoothly.
Potential Issues
Like any mechanical device, the Featherlight may present the rare issue. In older models, ensuring parts are in good condition will help with performance. Keeping spare parts on hand may be a good idea for guns that are over decades old. Taking care of the gun, and being aware of potential problem areas, will help extend its lifespan.
The Ups and Downs: Weighing the Pros and Cons
The Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge offers many advantages to hunters. Its lightweight design is a huge benefit for those who hunt on foot. The smooth action and reliable performance are also definite positives. The timeless classic look and feel often make it a gun that is cherished by its owner.
Disadvantages
However, there are also downsides to consider. The cost of a new, or even a well-preserved older, Ithaca Featherlight can be a factor. As the gun ages, finding replacement parts might pose a challenge, though the simple design contributes to its longevity.
The Value Proposition and the Competition
The Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge is more than just a firearm. It’s a piece of history. Determining the value of this shotgun depends on condition, the age, and, of course, the current market.
Market Value and Competitors
The market for classic firearms tends to fluctuate. Comparing the price of the Featherlight to other similar shotguns in the 20-gauge category offers a better understanding of its value. Some competing shotguns may offer more modern features or more affordable price points. Comparing features like the action type, build materials, and overall aesthetics will influence the evaluation.
Overall Assessment
Ultimately, the value of the Ithaca Featherlight is found in its combination of performance, classic styling, and historical significance. It’s a gun that appeals to those who appreciate the finer points of design and craftsmanship.
Wrapping It Up: A Timeless Companion
The Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge is a classic for a reason. Its lightweight design, reliability, and suitability for upland hunting make it a joy to carry and shoot. It’s a gun that becomes an extension of the hunter, a reliable companion in the field.
Final Recommendation
The Featherlight is an excellent choice for upland hunters, particularly those who value a lightweight, fast-handling shotgun. It’s a gun that will last for many hunting seasons, with proper care. The Featherlight is a gun you can pass on to family members, and the memories created with this shotgun are priceless. If you’re searching for a classic shotgun that combines performance, reliability, and history, the Ithaca Featherlight 20 Gauge is a worthy choice. It’s a legacy, a tool, and a pleasure to own. The legacy endures and continues to provide joy and satisfaction for those who appreciate a fine shotgun.
