Model 37 in 16 Gauge & steel shot?

[wlewisiii]

Looking at a used but not abused Ithaca Model 37 in 16 gauge. Now, I like the Model 37, it's really the only pump I have liked. And I'll admit to being tempted by the 16 gauge factor as well. The gentleman has it priced right as well - $150.

By the serial, 65x,xxx - 2, it's from 1957 with a Modified choke. Would it be safe to use this with steel for waterfowl? I've got a nice older Stevens for upland game where lead is still ok but I need something for non-toxic that won't break the bank.

For that matter, are there any rifled slugs in 16 gauge out there, I wonder? Gotta go google
(edit: yeah, there are. Cool beans.)

If it's still there on payday, I'll probably get it anyway but it would be good to have some idea on the flexibility as I don't much like safe queens.

Thanks!

 

[stan rose]

With a modified choke I don't think you should have any problems but I don't know for sure.
Contact Les Hovencamp at Diamond Gunsmithing, he will know for sure. At any rate a 37 that works well for $150 is a good thing.
http://www.diamondgunsmithing.com/

 

[Dave McCracken]

$150 for a good 37 is grand larceny. Even a 16.

If I ran across one at that price, I'd buy it. And.....

Send the barrel to Briley or Orlen for choke tubes and a new forcing cone.

Get the stock fitting me well, then hollow it out enough to add a weight forward feel and top it with a good pad.

Buy a loader, shoot and pattern until I come up with a great 7/8 oz load and make plenty of them.

And then, no matter how many other shotguns I had, I'd know I had the uplands well covered......

 

[Southpaw 02]

150.00 is a steal. now as far a steel shot goes a modified choke or mor open constriction you should be good to go.

 

[snooperman]

Buy it now, do not delay

I have several Ithaca 37's and like them the best of all the pump guns. Take Dave's advice and get choke tubes for it. I did that to a 12 ga I bought back in 1964 and it is my favorite hunting shotgun. Snoop

 

[chas08]

I have one that was made the same year with a fixed modified choke. I have shot a lot of steel and Hevi-Shot through with no detectable issues. The shot sizes were #2, & #4 steel and #6 hevishot. I say go for it, but in the end it's your choice. And to think I felt guilty for paying $200 for mine two seasons ago!!!

 

[wlewisiii]

Thanks for the info guys. It's just a matter of waiting for the paycheck and getting the money aside from it now.

 

[45crittergitter]

I would not use steel shot in that gun.