Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you a firearms enthusiast or collector looking to learn more about your Ithaca Model 49 rifle? Perhaps you're trying to determine the production date or verify the authenticity of your firearm. Whatever the reason, understanding the serial number lookup process can be a valuable resource. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to look up the serial number on your Ithaca Model 49 portable rifle.
Introduction to the Ithaca Model 49
The Ithaca Model 49 is a popular semi-automatic rifle produced by the Ithaca Gun Company from 1960 to 1975. Known for its reliability and accuracy, the Model 49 was widely used for hunting, target shooting, and law enforcement. With over 300,000 units produced during its 15-year production run, the Ithaca Model 49 remains a sought-after firearm among collectors and enthusiasts.
Serial Number Location
The serial number on your Ithaca Model 49 rifle can be found in two locations:
Serial Number Lookup Process
To look up the serial number on your Ithaca Model 49, follow these steps:
Production Date Ranges
While the Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup process can provide exact production dates, here are some general date ranges to keep in mind:
Conclusion
The Ithaca Model 49 is a beloved firearm among collectors and enthusiasts. By understanding the serial number lookup process, you can gain valuable insights into your rifle's production date, authenticity, and history. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a new owner, this guide provides a comprehensive resource for navigating the world of Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookups.
Additional Tips and Resources
By following these guidelines and resources, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the secrets of your Ithaca Model 49 rifle. Happy collecting!
Before diving into the lookup process, it’s essential to understand the rifle itself. The Ithaca Model 49 was introduced in 1961 and remained in production until 1978 (some sources cite 1979). It was designed as a youth or entry-level rifle, but its all-steel construction, lever-action appearance, and surprisingly accurate single-shot mechanism made it popular among adults as well.
The rifle features a falling-block, single-shot action, disguised under a non-functioning lever. To load, you press a button on the left side of the receiver, swing the lever down (which cocks the internal striker), insert a .22 short, long, or long rifle cartridge, and then close the lever. It is not a true repeater, which adds to its safety as a trainer.
Ithaca produced over 350,000 Model 49s. Some were made in Ithaca, New York, and later in King Ferry, New York. Variations include barrel lengths (18.5” and 22”), saddle ring carbines, and even commemorative models.
ITHACA MODEL 49 – SERIAL LOOKUP 1962: 1001 1971: 241k 1963: 6.5k 1972: 270k 1964: 21k 1973: 299k 1965: 44k 1974: 325k 1966: 67k 1975: 350k 1967: 90k 1976: 375k 1968: 118k 1977: 400k 1969: 156k 1978: 425-450k 1970: 196k
No serial = pre-1968 Saddle ring = 1962-1965
The Ithaca Model 49 Saddlegun, produced between 1961 and 1978, is a classic single-shot .22 caliber rifle that remains a favorite for collectors and new shooters alike. Tracking its history through serial numbers can be complex, as record-keeping for this specific model is less centralized than for Ithaca's famous shotguns. Locating and Interpreting the Serial Number
For most Ithaca Model 49 rifles, the serial number is located on the left side of the receiver. However, it is important to note that rifles manufactured prior to the Gun Control Act of 1968 were often not serialized.
Prefix Identification: Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the digits "49" (e.g., 490xxxxxx).
Format: Later models may feature a longer string of digits, such as "490328869" or "490440838," typically found on the alloy receiver.
Magnum Models: Specific variations like the .22 Magnum (WMR) often fall within distinct numerical ranges, such as the 156,000 series. Determining Manufacture Date
Unlike many modern firearms, there is no automated "portable" online database that provides an instant date for every Ithaca Model 49. Instead, researchers rely on a combination of factory records and physical characteristics: ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable
Official Records: The Cody Firearms Records Office holds the most comprehensive set of Ithaca factory ledgers, though availability for the Model 49 can be hit-or-miss. Physical Evolution:
Early Models (1961–mid-60s): Often featured walnut stocks and folding buckhorn rear sights.
Later Models: Transitioned to hardwood (elm or birch) and simplified flat-top rear sights.
Bicentennial Edition: A limited "St. Louis" bicentennial model was produced around 1976. Key Specifications & Action
The Model 49 is known for its Martini-style falling block action, which is operated by a lever that resembles a traditional Winchester repeater. Despite the "magazine tube" under the barrel, it is a single-shot rifle; the tube is purely aesthetic to give it a "Western" look. Because the receiver is made of a zinc-aluminum alloy, it is highly recommended to avoid frequent disassembly, as the soft material can wear easily at the pin locations.
For a formal verification of a specific serial number, contacting the Ithaca Gun Company or the Cody Firearms Museum is the most reliable method for collectors. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
The Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" was produced between 1960 and 1979. Determining the exact age of your rifle requires locating the serial number—typically on the left side of the receiver—and matching it against production records, which can be found in the Ithaca Serial Numbers Guide. Troubleshooting the Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup
Finding the manufacture date for this classic plinker is a common goal for collectors. Since over 500,000 were produced during its 20-year run, records are generally available but may require some digging. 1. Locate Your Serial Number Ithaca Model 49
, the serial number is most commonly stamped into the left side of the alloy receiver. On some variations, it may also be found on the barrel.
Action Type: This rifle features a single-shot falling block action operated by a lever, though it was designed with a faux magazine tube to resemble a Winchester '94.
Prefixes: Some models might include letter prefixes which help categorize the production run. 2. Match with Production Eras
While many Ithaca models have specific year-by-year tables, the is often categorized by major production milestones: Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup: A Comprehensive
1960–1961: Initial launch of the single-shot .22 LR "Saddlegun". 1962–1969 : Production of the Model 49P (Presentation Grade) , which featured a gold-plated trigger and hammer. 1961–1978: The Model 49R (Repeater)
version was available for those wanting a tubular-fed magazine instead of a single shot.
Caliber Variants: The Model 49 was also produced in .22 Magnum and even as a .410 shotgun. 3. Professional Research Options
If your serial number doesn't appear in standard online charts, you can request an official factory letter:
Cody Firearms Records Office: They house many original Ithaca factory records. You can submit a search request through the Center of the West to get specific configuration and date data for your serial number. 4. Collector Value Indicators
Beyond the serial number, certain features can help date your rifle:
Receiver Finish: Early models used a paint-type finish on the aluminum alloy receiver that is prone to wear.
Wood Quality: Later models saw changes in wood types and the design of the faux magazine tube. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
The current Ithaca Gun Company (now based in Upper Sandusky, Ohio) is a separate entity from the original Ithaca, NY, company. They do not have comprehensive historical records for Model 49s. They may offer a letter of authenticity for a fee, but do not guarantee a specific ship date.
If no serial number exists, determine the era by these features:
Ithaca did not always ship rifles in strict numerical order. Some low-numbered rifles were assembled and sold years later. The chart above is an approximation, not a guarantee.
The single most important fact about the Ithaca Model 49 is that Ithaca did not consistently serialize all examples of this model. Receiver : The serial number is stamped on
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).