Browning BPS vs. Ithaca 37

[dak0ta]

Hi,

I want to get a bottom-loading shotgun, should I get a BPS Hunter or a used Ithaca 37?

 

[viking499]

Most shotguns are bottom loading. The two in question are bottom eject. I have both. To me, the advantage to the BPS is the ability to change choke tubes. But the Ithaca has the advantage on the number of deer killed.....

 

[dak0ta]

Yeah most Ithaca 37's are going to have a fixed choke. The one's I find are usually fixed full choke. Is that ok?

How do the 37's handle in comparison with the BPS?

Is it better to get a current product?

 

[stalkingbear]

The 37s were good guns but I've had several bps and will get more-In my opinion,the bps is the best pump shotgun on the market today.

 

[DRYHUMOR]

I've had both, get the BPS, you'll have no regrets.

 

[Shawnee]

Have had both.

No comparison.


Get the BPS.

 

[viking499]

To me, they handle about the same. My BPS is heavier than my Ithaca by a little bit. That will affect the handling and carrying a little. Like both, but use my BPS more. Semi-retired the Ithaca since I am the 3rd generation to have it in the cabinet. But it still gets used yearly.

 

[loosecannon]

Ditto for the BPS, which I've owned in 3 ga's. Currently, I have a factory 20inch security model with fully extended mag tube, and synthetic stock and fore end. This 12 ga is a keeper.

 

[chas08]

I own both. A BPS 10 ga and an Ithaca 37 Ultrafeatherlight 20 ga. Both are great guns but in your case I'd go with the BPS. The BPS is simpler to tear completely down for that once or twice a season thorough cleaning. And it is much easier to mount sling swivels on if you desire a sling.

 

[earplug]

The BPS's weight is better for my swing. The M37 carries better.

 

[Dave McCracken]

Both are fine shotguns. If it's main mission will be waterfowl, I'd go for the extra heft of the BPS. Uplands, the Ithaca.

Defense, either.

All else equal, get the one that feels best.

Did I mention how I loathe "vs" threads ?....

 

[Milkmaster]

I assume you are speaking about a used Model 37. The 37 is lighter than the BPS therby having a bit harder recoil. Mine kicked pretty good. IF you want a lighter shotgun to carry get the 37. If you prefer a little bit less recoil in a slightly heavier model go with the BPS. My current BPS is easier on my shoulder than the 37. Either will serve you well.

Just to mention.... You know they do make "NEW" Ithaca Model 37 shotguns! Reports are that the quality is top notch. The price is up in the $700-$800 range. That is above my dollar level for a pump gun when other quality models like the BPS can be had for less.

http://www.ithacagun.com/

Like Dave said...Keep looking, spend some time handling both, and choose the one that feels best when shouldering it.

Whatever you get, enjoy it and share photos with us!

 

[ArmedBear]

The Browning is heavier, but has a tang safety and a more attractive price tag. The new Ithacas are gorgeous, from what I can tell. Still, for that price, I kinda like old Ithacas, the ones with two barrels.

I hate overweight upland guns, but then again I like 20 Gauges anyway. The BPS Upland Special in 20 is plenty light enough.

 

[earlthegoat2]

bps is cheaper, fit and finish is better, trigger pull is better, checkering is better,

 

[gunut]

The Ithaca 37 has always been American made...while the BPS has always been made in Japan...I have both and like them both... a rule of thumb is if the barrel came from the factory with choke tubes it is steel safe with the modified or more open tube installed...

 

[ARTiger]

Both are good. My BPS has handled rough condition duck hunting for over 10 years without a hiccup.