Ithaca model 37 16 gauge

[tdunhunter]

I am a new member of this forum. I have a couple of questions.
1. I have recently purchased an Ithaca model 37 16 gauge serial #4489##. I believe this is a 1951?
2. Since it is a pre 855,000 is it likely or even possible to find a full barrel for it? It has a mod barrel now and I like that, but i might try to kill a long beard with it if i find a full choke barrel.
I am located in central ohio and am looking forward to reading your responses.
Thanks

 

[gunut]

1952....any 16 ga pre 855,000 barrel can be fit to your receiver by a gunsmith.....they just dont interchange without gunsmithing like post 855000 guns....

 

[dflorida]

You can send it back to Ithaca for a new barrel if you so choose. They can supply a barrel and fit it for you right in the factory. Have you thought of just having your barrel fitted with removable choke tubes? It would have to be less expensive than a new barrel plus fitting.
Don

 

[Fred Fuller]

Welcome to THR!

Try patterning it with a few different loads suitable for turkey harvesting. Your gun might work out OK "as is" within useful range, but you'll never know till you try. And a few shells and some pattern paper are certainly cheaper than a new barrel or choke tubes... with modern shells, a Mod choke might surprise you.

lpl

 

[tdunhunter]

thanks for the info.
I guess i wont worry bout a full barrel then. I did see a box of Remington Express long range 4's at a local gun store. Most of our long beards get harvested under 25 yards so I think the mod barrel should work. I dont think that the pressures of those shells would be to much for that barrel? If not then i will probably buy those shells and check pattern with a 24 ounce beer can at 20, 25, and 30.

 

[Jack R]

DONT BE TOO QUICK TO SPEND $$ ON ANOTHER BARREL I WORK WITH A GUY WHO HAS TAKEN SEVERAL TURKEYS WITH A MOD 37 MOD CHOKE , he did spend some to pattern it with different loads....works for him

 

[flipajig]

M37 lost count of boxes of shells along with ducks and phesants,doves and all I would like to know how old I am 4464xx is my serial number.

 

[Fred Fuller]

I dont think that the pressures of those shells would be to much for that barrel?

As long as you don't get shells that are longer than the marked chamber length of your gun, and be sure to keep your bore clear of obstructions, you'll be OK.

lpl

 

[tdunhunter]

thanks for the help guys i will have to buy those shells and then give a report on how they grouped. I have a couple of 870's with tru-glo extra full chokes so its not dire to use it this year for turkeys, but i think it would be fun to try it.