The single most important fact about the Ithaca Model 49 is that Ithaca did not consistently serialize all examples of this model.
Conclusion: Before you attempt a lookup, check your rifle thoroughly. No serial number means no lookup is possible via records; you must rely on physical features (see Section 4).
Based on collector-compiled data from survivor rifles and factory shipping ledgers (partial), here is the best-known breakdown:
| Approximate Year | Serial Number Range | Key Features | |----------------------|------------------------|-------------------| | 1961 (1st year) | 100 – 2500 | Flat-back receiver, non-serialized barrel, no saddle ring | | 1962–1963 | 2501 – 15000 | Flat-back receiver, stamped "Ithaca Gun Co. Ithaca, N.Y." | | 1964–1966 | 15001 – 65000 | Round-back receiver introduced, some with saddle ring | | 1967–1969 | 65001 – 145000 | “Saddle Gun” markings appear on barrel | | 1970–1972 | 145001 – 225000 | Gold trigger on some deluxe models | | 1973–1975 | 225001 – 300000 | King Ferry address on barrel (instead of Ithaca) | | 1976–1978 | 300001 – 350000+ | Last production runs, some stamped "Geneseo, Ill" |
Portable rule of thumb:
After performing your Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup portable, you’ll likely want to know value. Here is a quick portable valuation guide (condition 80% or better):
The Ithaca Model 49 is a charming, robust piece of American firearm history. While the lack of an official digital archive frustrates many, the Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup portable method is a testament to the power of hands-on collecting. By memorizing a few key serial number ranges and physical features, you can confidently date any Model 49 you encounter—no internet, no phone, no problem.
Whether you’re verifying a $350 plinker or a rare $900 smoothbore, the knowledge in this guide transforms you from a casual browser into an informed collector. So grab your Saddle Gun, wipe down that walnut stock, and take pride in owning a rifle whose secrets you can now unlock—portably, and with certainty.
Final portable checklist for your wallet:
Happy hunting, and keep that bore clean.
Disclaimer: This information is compiled from public collector sources and field research. Serial number interpretation is approximate. For certified appraisal, consult a professional firearm historian.
The Ithaca Model 49 is a classic example of a "working class" .22 rifle that was never intended to be meticulously tracked by historians. The lack of a reliable serial number lookup system does not diminish its value or charm—it simply means that dating one requires a combination of physical observation and accepting approximation. If you own a non-serialized Model 49, you can confidently say it is from 1962–1968. If you have a serial number in the 150,000 range, it is likely a mid-1970s rifle.
For absolute precision, the only portable tool you need is a good reference book or a saved PDF of known serial number ranges—because no online database will give you a definitive answer.
Identifying the age of an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" can be tricky because official serial number records for this specific model are notably incomplete. This rimfire rifle, stylized to look like a classic Winchester lever-action, was produced from 1961 through 1978/1979. Where to Find the Serial Number
The serial number on an Ithaca Model 49 is typically stamped into the left front side of the action case, parallel to the barrel and forward of the trigger.
Pre-1968 Models: Many early units (1961–1967) may have no serial number at all. Serialization only became mandatory with the Gun Control Act of 1968.
Post-1968 Models: Serial numbers often begin with the prefix 49 and are followed by a six- or nine-digit string. How to Date Your Rifle
Since detailed year-by-year serial number tables for the Model 49 aren't publicly available, you can use these physical markers to narrow down the era:
1961–1967 (No Serial Number): If your rifle lacks a serial number, it was almost certainly manufactured before 1968. Early vs. Late Features:
Stock Material: Early models used American Walnut, while later production shifted to hardwoods like elm or birch.
Sights: Older versions often featured folding buckhorn rear sights, which were later replaced by a simpler flat-top design.
Front Sight: Early units had a barrel band with an integral front sight; later models used a dovetail front sight. Expert Lookup Resources
For more precise identification, you can consult databases or specialized collectors:
Ithaca Gun Co. Official Site: While their online serial number guide focuses heavily on shotguns (like the Model 37), it is a primary starting point for company history.
Firearms Guide: Provides a searchable database for various Ithaca firearms manufactured from 1880–1986.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West: They hold the Cody Firearms Records, which include many Ithaca records, though they note that post-1939 records remain incomplete. Do you have the serial number handy, or22 Magnum version? Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
The Ithaca Model 49 "Saddle Gun" was an iconic .22 caliber rimfire rifle produced between 1961 and 1979. While it is a beloved "first rifle" for many, tracking its specific age via serial number can be challenging due to the lack of comprehensive public records for this specific model. Serial Number Location & Format
Location: The serial number is typically located on the bottom of the receiver or on the side of the receiver near the lever.
Format: Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the prefix "49".
Pre-1968 Models: Firearms manufactured before the Gun Control Act of 1968 were not legally required to have serial numbers; consequently, many early Model 49s may have no serialization at all. Manufacturing Eras (1961–1979)
Since precise year-by-year serial number tables for the Model 49 are largely unavailable, collectors often date them by physical characteristics:
Early Production (1961–Late 1960s): Often featured walnut stocks and a folding buckhorn rear sight. These early units are more likely to lack serial numbers. ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable
Later Production (1970s): Switched to hardwoods like elm or birch with pressed checkering. The rear sight was often changed to a simpler flat-top version.
Model 49R (Repeater): Produced roughly from 1961 to 1978, this version used a tube magazine rather than the single-shot falling block action of the standard Model 49. Where to Look Up Information
Because Ithaca changed ownership several times, factory records are fragmented. For official verification, you can contact the following: Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
Determining the age of a vintage rifle like the Ithaca Model 49
can be challenging because factory records from that era are often fragmented. However, by understanding the manufacturing timeline and knowing where to look, you can accurately narrow down the production year of your "Saddle Gun." Quick Reference for Ithaca Model 49 Production Ithaca Model 49
was produced between 1961 and 1979. Unlike modern firearms with digital databases, looking up this model requires cross-referencing serial number ranges and physical characteristics. Production Years 1961 – 1979 Action Type Lever-action, single-shot (Martini-style action) Calibers .22 Short, Long, Long Rifle; also .22 WMR (Magnum) Barrel Length 18.5 inches Serial Location Typically found on the receiver (often the side or bottom) Step 1: Locate the Serial Number
To begin your lookup, you must find the stamped identifier on the rifle. For the Ithaca Model 49 , check these common locations:
Side of the Receiver: Most commonly stamped on the left or right side of the alloy receiver.
Bottom of the Receiver: Some variations may have the number near the lever or trigger guard.
Note on Early Models: Very early production units (pre-1968) may lack a serial number entirely, as they were not federally required for rimfire rifles until the Gun Control Act of 1968. Step 2: Identify Your Variant
The serial number often correlates with the specific version of the Model 49 you own.
Standard Saddle Gun: The base model with a hardwood stock and alloy receiver. Deluxe Model: Features a gold-plated trigger and hammer.
Presentation Grade: Produced from 1962 to 1969, featuring an engraved receiver and gold-plated components.
Model 49R: A repeater version (magazine tube fed) that is less common than the single-shot variety. Step 3: Use Serial Number Ranges While a complete year-by-year public list for the
is difficult to find, you can use known data points to estimate the age:
490XXXXXX Series: These long 9-digit serial numbers are typically from later production years.
Low 6-digit Numbers: Serial numbers like 156XXX are often associated with early to mid-production .22 Magnum models. Expert Resources for Verification
If you need an official "birth certificate" for your rifle for insurance or collecting purposes, consider these professional lookup services: FAQ - Ithaca Gun Co.
Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup: A Comprehensive Guide to Portable Shotguns
The Ithaca Model 49 is a popular portable shotgun known for its reliability, durability, and versatility. Manufactured by Ithaca Gun Company, Inc. from 1961 to 1978, this firearm has gained a loyal following among hunters, sport shooters, and collectors. One of the most critical aspects of owning an Ithaca Model 49 is understanding its serial number and the significance it holds. In this article, we will explore the world of Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup, providing you with a comprehensive guide to tracing the history of your portable shotgun.
History of the Ithaca Model 49
The Ithaca Model 49 was introduced in 1961 as a more affordable and lightweight alternative to traditional shotguns. Its design was influenced by the Remington Model 11, but with some notable improvements. The Model 49 featured a rugged, reliable, and easy-to-use design, making it an instant hit among outdoor enthusiasts. Over the years, the Model 49 underwent several design changes, including updates to the receiver, barrel, and stock.
Why is Serial Number Lookup Important?
The serial number of your Ithaca Model 49 is more than just a series of numbers; it holds the key to the firearm's history. By performing a serial number lookup, you can:
How to Perform an Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup
There are several ways to perform an Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup:
Decoding Ithaca Model 49 Serial Numbers
Ithaca Model 49 serial numbers typically consist of a combination of letters and numbers. The serial number is usually stamped on the receiver or barrel. Here's a breakdown of the serial number format:
Keep in mind that Ithaca Gun Company used various serial number formats throughout the Model 49's production run. Consult a reliable source or expert if you're unsure about your firearm's serial number.
Portability and Versatility: The Ithaca Model 49's Design
The Ithaca Model 49's portability and versatility are key factors in its enduring popularity. This shotgun features: The single most important fact about the Ithaca
These design features make the Ithaca Model 49 an ideal choice for hunting, target shooting, and home defense.
Conclusion
The Ithaca Model 49 is a legendary portable shotgun with a rich history and loyal following. By performing a serial number lookup, you can unlock the secrets of your firearm's past, including its production date, original configuration, and historical significance. Whether you're a collector, hunter, or sport shooter, understanding your Ithaca Model 49's serial number is essential to appreciating its value and heritage.
Additional Resources
For further information on Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup and the firearm's history, we recommend:
By exploring these resources and performing a serial number lookup, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for your Ithaca Model 49 and its place in firearms history.
Determining the exact manufacture date of an Ithaca Model 49
via serial number can be difficult because production records for this model are notoriously incomplete
. However, the model's history provides a reliable framework for narrowing down its age. Production Overview Manufacturing Years: 1961 to 1978/1979. Total Produced: Over 500,000 units. The "No Serial Number" Rule: Rifles produced between 1961 and 1968
were often not serialized because the Gun Control Act (GCA) requiring them did not go into effect until 1968. If your rifle lacks a serial number, it was likely made during this early window. Identifying Your Serial Number
If your rifle has a serial number, look for these common formats and locations: Typically found on the Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the prefix followed by several digits. Repeating Model (49R):
Repeater versions (tube-fed) were introduced later and may follow a different sequence than the standard single-shot "Saddlegun". Reference Points for Dating
While no definitive yearly serial list exists for the Model 49, you can estimate based on design changes and known high/low numbers: 1962–1969:
Presentation grade models (gold-plated trigger/hammer) were primarily offered during this period. Late 1960s/Early 1970s:
The rear sight was updated from a folding buckhorn to a simpler flat-top sight, and wood changed from walnut to hardwoods like elm or birch. High Numbers: Observed serial numbers can reach as high as
, which would represent very late-stage production near 1978. Official Records
Ithaca 49 SS Take Down Manual | PDF | Gun Barrel | Rifle - Scribd
Features: Hardwood stock with pressed checkering and hard plastic butt plate. Aluminum Alloy receiver. Dove tail notch rear sight,
Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" was produced between 1960 and 1979
. While exact serial number databases for this specific model are notoriously difficult to find due to record gaps, you can determine its general age using the following production history and identification markers. Quick Production Timeline 1960–1968: Most early models were not serialized
. This is because the Gun Control Act of 1968 had not yet mandated serial numbers for all firearms. 1969–1979:
Models produced after 1968 will have a serial number, typically starting with the prefix 1976 & 1978:
There was no recorded production of certain Ithaca lines during these years. Ithaca Gun Company Identifying Your Model 49 Description Action Type Martini-style "falling block" single-shot. .22 Short, Long, Long Rifle, or .22 Magnum. Barrel Length Standard 18 or 18.5 inches.
Designed to look like a Winchester lever-action repeater, including a faux magazine tube. Specific Serial Examples & Records Recorded Serial Numbers: Users have documented numbers such as (.22 Mag) and (.22 Cal) in various valuation records. Official Search:
For a definitive history of your specific firearm, you can request an official Factory Search Factory Letter Cody Firearms Records Office
, which holds Ithaca records from 1886 through the mid-1980s. Manuals & Care: If you need to perform maintenance, consult the Ithaca 49 Take Down Manual for disassembly steps. Buffalo Bill Center of the West Estimated Values Based on historical bluebook data, a standard Model 49 in condition is typically valued between $110–$145
model (featuring a gold-plated trigger and hammer) can command a 20% premium JustAnswer Do you have a specific serial number you'd like to check against these production markers? Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup: A Complete Guide Locating and identifying the serial number on an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun
" is the first step in uncovering its manufacturing history and ensuring its legal status. Produced between 1961 and 1979, these rifles are iconic entry-level .22 caliber rimfire firearms designed with a classic Western aesthetic. Where to Find the Serial Number Ithaca Model 49
, the serial number is typically stamped into the left front side of the action case, positioned parallel to the barrel and just forward of the trigger.
Format: Depending on the age of the rifle, the serial number may be 6 digits or 9 digits long. Conclusion: Before you attempt a lookup, check your
Missing Numbers: If you cannot find a serial number, the rifle may have been manufactured before the Gun Control Act of 1968, as earlier models (around 1962) often did not have them. Dating Your Ithaca Model 49
The Model 49 used different serialization sequences throughout its production life, often shifting due to changes in federal law.
Pre-1969 Production: Early serial numbers for variants like the Model 49R (repeater) began with 100000.
Post-1969 Production: After the 1968 gun law took effect, a new 9-digit sequence was established starting with 500121000 on January 1, 1969. Example Lookup: SN 103163: The 3,163rd gun of the first series.
SN 500122729: The 1,729th gun made under the newer 9-digit sequence. Production Volume (Estimated) By year-end 1968 8,947 guns shipped During 1969 17,026 guns shipped During 1970 6,031 guns shipped During 1971 5,258 guns shipped Key Model Variations
The "Saddlegun" was available in several configurations that may impact its serial number range or collectible value:
Standard Model: The core single-shot lever-action rifle, produced through 1978. Model 49R: A repeating version with a tubular magazine.
Deluxe/Presentation Models: Featured gold-plated hammers and triggers; the Presentation model was discontinued around 1973.
Sears "Ted Williams" Version: Many Model 49s were sold through Sears, Roebuck Co. and bear the "Ted Williams" mark but generally follow regular serial number sequences. Resources for Official Research
If you need definitive documentation for valuation or historical purposes, you can contact the Cody Firearms Records Office, which houses many original Ithaca Gun Company records.
For those looking for a quick reference on other Ithaca models, the Official Ithaca Gun Co. Serial Number Table provides broader ranges for their historical lineup. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
Finding specific manufacture dates for the Ithaca Model 49 "Saddle Gun" is challenging because the Ithaca Gun Company did not maintain or release centralized, year-by-year serial number tables for this specific model, unlike their older shotguns. Serial Number Quick Facts
Production Range: The Model 49 was manufactured from 1961 to approximately 1978.
Serialized vs. Unserialized: Guns made prior to the Gun Control Act of 1968 were often not serialized. If your rifle has no serial number, it was likely made between 1961 and 1968.
Serial Number Location: Typically found on the left side of the receiver.
Format: Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the prefix "49". Identification by Features
Since exact serial databases are unavailable, collectors use design changes to estimate the age: Early Models (1961–Mid 60s) Later Models (Late 60s–1978) Stock Material Genuine Walnut Hardwood (Elm or Birch) Rear Sight Folding buckhorn style Simpler flat-top or stepped wedge Front Sight Integral with barrel band Dovetail front sight Checkering Often uncheckered or simple Pressed checkering How to Request Official Records
For a definitive answer, you can contact the Cody Firearms Records Office, which holds the surviving Ithaca factory records.
Records Availability: While records from 1886–1939 are most complete, they do have incomplete records for the early 1960s.
Service: You can request a search or a Factory Letter for a fee (typically around $92–$95 for non-members).
Contact: Phone: 307-578-4031 | Email: cfmrecords@centerofthewest.org. Model Variants
Model 49: Single-shot lever action with a "false" magazine tube.
Model 49R: A repeating version with a functional tube magazine. Model 49 Magnum: Chambered specifically for .22 WMR.
Does your rifle have the prefix "49" at the start of the serial number, or is it a plain 5- or 6-digit number?
Cody Firearms Records Office adds Ithaca Gun Company records
The Ithaca Model 49 is a popular portable .22 caliber rifle. If you're looking for information on how to look up the serial number, here's what you need to know:
The Ithaca Model 49 was produced from 1960 to 1973, and the serial numbers can be found on the receiver or barrel. To determine the production date and other details about your firearm, you can follow these steps:
Here's a rough guide to help you decode the serial number:
Keep in mind that this is a general guide and may not be entirely accurate.
For a more accurate lookup, I recommend contacting Ithaca Gun Company directly or consulting with a firearms expert.
Would you like to know more about the Ithaca Model 49 or is there something specific you'd like to know?