Introduction
The gentle thud of a pump action, the glint of polished steel, the promise of precision—these are the hallmarks that draw people to classic shotguns. Among them, the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight, especially in its lithe 20-gauge configuration, holds a special place in the hearts of shooters and hunters alike. This is not just a firearm; it’s a legacy, a testament to American craftsmanship, and a highly capable tool for a variety of purposes. This review dives deep into the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge, exploring its rich history, its distinctive features, its performance in the field, and ultimately, whether it deserves a place in your gun safe.
History and Background
From the moment you lay eyes on the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight, there’s an undeniable allure. It’s a shotgun that speaks to a simpler time, when firearms were built with care and designed to last. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Model 37 boasts a unique history and a design that sets it apart from its contemporaries.
The Ithaca Gun Company has a story interwoven with American history. While its roots trace back earlier, the company’s significance in the world of firearms solidified over decades. The design of the Model 37, however, owes a debt to the Remington Model 17, designed by John Pedersen. Ithaca acquired the rights to this design and made significant improvements, refining it into the iconic Model 37. The name Featherlight aptly describes this model, because the 20-gauge configuration further enhances the gun’s maneuverability. The “Featherlight” designation isn’t just a marketing term; it represents a shotgun built for ease of handling and swift movement. The model’s popularity endures because it combines classic aesthetics with dependable performance.
Design and Features
The heart of the Model 37 is its innovative design. One of the most notable features is its bottom ejection. This seemingly simple alteration has profound advantages. Because spent shells eject downwards, the shotgun is inherently ambidextrous. Whether you are left- or right-handed, the bottom ejection system allows for effortless operation, making the Model 37 a truly versatile firearm. Furthermore, this design helps prevent debris from entering the action, contributing to the gun’s reliability, especially in challenging conditions.
Pump Action
The pump action is a key feature of the Model 37. The pump is known for its smoothness. The bolt glides effortlessly with a well-engineered feel, allowing for quick follow-up shots. This fluid action makes the Model 37 a joy to operate. The design is user-friendly, a factor that contributed to the model’s popularity with generations of shooters.
Barrel and Choke Options
Available barrel lengths and chokes give shooters the ability to tailor the shotgun to specific tasks. From hunting upland game to handling defensive situations, the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge offers enough flexibility to suit your needs. The option to change the barrel, or the choke system, also means it’s possible to adapt to the type of shooting or hunting that the shooter is doing.
Stock and Forend
The stock and forend contribute to the overall feel of the shotgun. Typically crafted from walnut or other durable hardwoods, these elements provide a comfortable and secure grip. The ergonomics of the stock and forend are thoughtfully designed. They enable fast target acquisition. They assist with smooth swings, further enhancing the shooting experience.
Trigger and Safety
The trigger on the Model 37 is a critical component. A crisp trigger, combined with a light pull weight, is essential for accuracy. The Model 37 has a reputation for offering a relatively clean break, which allows the shooter to fire with precision.
The safety mechanism is strategically placed for easy access. This is a standard feature, but it’s worth noting because it’s a crucial factor in safe gun handling. The placement makes it easy to engage and disengage the safety quickly.
Sights
The sights, typically a simple bead sight, are adequate for the intended purpose of a smoothbore shotgun. For hunters, the bead sight is often sufficient. The ease of use of the sight contributes to the Model 37’s practicality in the field.
Performance and Handling
Comparing the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge to other shotguns reveals its strengths. It is a classic design that has stood the test of time. Other pump-action shotguns exist, some with higher magazine capacities or more modern features. Yet, the Model 37’s reliability, ambidextrous design, and overall handling set it apart, making it a desirable option for many shooters.
When it comes to performance, the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge truly shines. Accuracy is a primary consideration for any firearm. To evaluate this, we tested it with a range of ammunition. With careful aiming, the Model 37 can deliver impressive results, whether it’s a birdshot pattern at a distance, or the controlled groupings of buckshot or slugs. This is a testament to the quality of its barrel and the shooter’s ability.
Recoil
The recoil of a 20-gauge shotgun is generally manageable, especially when compared to its larger 12-gauge counterpart. The Featherlight’s design helps mitigate recoil. The weight, combined with the stock design, does an admirable job of taming the kick. This allows for comfortable shooting sessions, and for quick follow-up shots without undue discomfort.
Handling
Handling the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight is a pleasure. Its balance is superb, contributing to its overall feel. The gun is not too heavy. It can be maneuvered quickly and easily. The ability to bring the gun up to the shoulder smoothly is key. This is where the Featherlight earns its name. Its weight makes for excellent handling and ease of carry. This is a shotgun that feels good in the hands.
Reliability
Reliability is paramount in any firearm. Through extensive testing with various types of ammunition, the Model 37 showed consistent performance. While no mechanical device is immune to failure, the Model 37’s proven design and build quality contribute to its reputation for dependability. With proper care and maintenance, this shotgun can last a lifetime, or even generations.
Pros and Cons
The Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge offers a compelling set of pros and cons. Among the advantages, its lightweight design stands out. The smoothness of the pump action is a great strength, as is its inherent ambidextrous design. The build quality is exceptional. The ambidextrous feature is highly valued by many.
There are potential downsides to consider. Finding parts can be more difficult than with some more modern shotguns, though they are still available. The price can be slightly higher than some competing models, a reflection of its quality and historical significance. However, these are minor inconveniences.
Who Is This Shotgun For?
The Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge is an ideal choice for a wide range of shooters. It’s perfect for hunters, particularly those who pursue upland game, such as pheasant and grouse. It’s a great choice for sporting clays enthusiasts. It is also a suitable choice for home defense applications, offering maneuverability and stopping power in a manageable package. Collectors also appreciate this classic firearm.
Compared to other shotguns in the same class, the Model 37 excels in its reliability, handling, and classic styling. Some modern shotguns may offer higher magazine capacities or more tactical features. However, the Model 37 stands out for its simplicity, its durability, and its ability to deliver consistent performance.
Value and Price
The value of an Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge varies depending on its condition, its production date, and its specific features. A well-maintained Model 37, especially one in excellent condition, can command a premium price. Finding one at a reasonable price is often possible, making it an excellent investment for those seeking a quality shotgun with historical significance. Online retailers, gun shows, and local gun stores are good places to look.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge is a remarkable firearm. Its history, its innovative features, and its outstanding performance make it a true classic. While the world of shotguns is constantly evolving, the Model 37 Featherlight stands as a testament to excellent design and manufacturing.
With a focus on reliable performance and a classic design, the Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge is an excellent choice for hunters, sport shooters, and collectors. If you’re in the market for a shotgun that blends timeless appeal with practical functionality, the Model 37 Featherlight is an excellent option. Its easy handling makes it a joy to use.
The Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight 20 Gauge is a shotgun that embodies the best qualities of American manufacturing. It’s a reliable and enjoyable firearm. Its legacy will continue for many years to come.
