The Ithaca Gun Company is an American manufacturer of firearms, historically renowned for its shotguns and, for a period, its production of military firearms. Founded in 1883 in Ithaca, New York, the company has undergone numerous changes in ownership and location but continues to produce firearms under its established name.
History
The company was founded in 1883 by a group of prominent businessmen, including William Henry Baker, who was already a well-known shotgun designer. The initial focus was on high-quality side-by-side double-barrel shotguns. The company quickly gained a reputation for craftsmanship and reliability.
In 1937, Ithaca introduced its most iconic firearm, the Model 37 pump-action shotgun. Designed by John Browning, this bottom-ejecting shotgun became immensely popular among hunters, sport shooters, law enforcement, and military personnel due to its smooth action and ambidextrous design. The Model 37 holds the distinction of being the longest continuously produced pump-action shotgun in history, albeit with production often carried out by successor companies.
During World War II, Ithaca Gun Company contributed to the war effort by producing M1911A1 pistols for the U.S. military, alongside its shotgun manufacturing.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the company faced various financial challenges and changes in ownership. It declared bankruptcy multiple times. The original Ithaca, New York, factory closed in 1986. The brand name and manufacturing rights were subsequently acquired by various entities, leading to several relocations of production facilities. Operations moved to such locations as King Ferry, New York, then further afield to Ohio, eventually settling in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, where the modern Ithaca Gun Company LLC operates today.
Products
Ithaca Gun Company's product line has predominantly centered on shotguns, though they have also produced rifles and pistols.
- Double-Barrel Shotguns: Early in its history, Ithaca produced a wide range of side-by-side shotguns, highly regarded for their quality and finish.
- Ithaca Model 37: This pump-action shotgun is the company's most famous and enduring product. Known for its bottom ejection port, which keeps spent shells out of the shooter's line of sight and prevents dirt from entering the action, it was offered in various gauges and configurations, including hunting, trap, skeet, and defensive models.
- Ithaca Mag-10: A large 10-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, produced for a period as a powerful option for waterfowl hunting.
- Ithaca Lever Release Repeater: A unique rifle produced for a short time, featuring a lever-operated bolt release.
- M1911A1 Pistol: Produced for the U.S. military during World War II.
Legacy
The Ithaca Gun Company holds a significant place in American firearms manufacturing history, largely due to the enduring popularity and innovative design of the Model 37 shotgun. Despite its tumultuous corporate history, the brand has persisted, and the Model 37 continues to be manufactured, maintaining its reputation for quality and reliability under the current iteration of the company. Its firearms are sought after by collectors, hunters, and sport shooters worldwide.