Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup (Portable Reference)
(For a printed/portable paper, include references from authoritative gun-reference books, museum catalogs, and known collector guides—search these sources for specifics to cite.)
If you want, I can:
Determining the exact manufacture date of an Ithaca Model 49
via serial number can be difficult because production records for this model are notoriously incomplete
. However, the model's history provides a reliable framework for narrowing down its age. Production Overview Manufacturing Years: 1961 to 1978/1979. Total Produced: Over 500,000 units. The "No Serial Number" Rule: Rifles produced between 1961 and 1968
were often not serialized because the Gun Control Act (GCA) requiring them did not go into effect until 1968. If your rifle lacks a serial number, it was likely made during this early window. Identifying Your Serial Number
If your rifle has a serial number, look for these common formats and locations: Typically found on the Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the prefix followed by several digits. Repeating Model (49R):
Repeater versions (tube-fed) were introduced later and may follow a different sequence than the standard single-shot "Saddlegun". Reference Points for Dating ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable
While no definitive yearly serial list exists for the Model 49, you can estimate based on design changes and known high/low numbers: 1962–1969:
Presentation grade models (gold-plated trigger/hammer) were primarily offered during this period. Late 1960s/Early 1970s:
The rear sight was updated from a folding buckhorn to a simpler flat-top sight, and wood changed from walnut to hardwoods like elm or birch. High Numbers: Observed serial numbers can reach as high as
, which would represent very late-stage production near 1978. Official Records
Ithaca 49 SS Take Down Manual | PDF | Gun Barrel | Rifle - Scribd
Features: Hardwood stock with pressed checkering and hard plastic butt plate. Aluminum Alloy receiver. Dove tail notch rear sight,
Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup: A Complete Guide Locating and identifying the serial number on an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun
" is the first step in uncovering its manufacturing history and ensuring its legal status. Produced between 1961 and 1979, these rifles are iconic entry-level .22 caliber rimfire firearms designed with a classic Western aesthetic. Where to Find the Serial Number Ithaca Model 49 Title Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup (Portable
, the serial number is typically stamped into the left front side of the action case, positioned parallel to the barrel and just forward of the trigger.
Format: Depending on the age of the rifle, the serial number may be 6 digits or 9 digits long.
Missing Numbers: If you cannot find a serial number, the rifle may have been manufactured before the Gun Control Act of 1968, as earlier models (around 1962) often did not have them. Dating Your Ithaca Model 49
The Model 49 used different serialization sequences throughout its production life, often shifting due to changes in federal law.
Pre-1969 Production: Early serial numbers for variants like the Model 49R (repeater) began with 100000.
Post-1969 Production: After the 1968 gun law took effect, a new 9-digit sequence was established starting with 500121000 on January 1, 1969. Example Lookup: SN 103163: The 3,163rd gun of the first series.
SN 500122729: The 1,729th gun made under the newer 9-digit sequence. Production Volume (Estimated) By year-end 1968 8,947 guns shipped During 1969 17,026 guns shipped During 1970 6,031 guns shipped During 1971 5,258 guns shipped Key Model Variations
The "Saddlegun" was available in several configurations that may impact its serial number range or collectible value: If you want, I can:
Standard Model: The core single-shot lever-action rifle, produced through 1978. Model 49R: A repeating version with a tubular magazine.
Deluxe/Presentation Models: Featured gold-plated hammers and triggers; the Presentation model was discontinued around 1973.
Sears "Ted Williams" Version: Many Model 49s were sold through Sears, Roebuck Co. and bear the "Ted Williams" mark but generally follow regular serial number sequences. Resources for Official Research
If you need definitive documentation for valuation or historical purposes, you can contact the Cody Firearms Records Office, which houses many original Ithaca Gun Company records.
For those looking for a quick reference on other Ithaca models, the Official Ithaca Gun Co. Serial Number Table provides broader ranges for their historical lineup. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
If your Ithaca Model 49 lacks a visible serial number (worn, buffed off, or never present), use these portable feature checkpoints:
| Feature | Indicates | |-------------|----------------| | Flat back on receiver (top is squared off) | 1961–1964 | | Round back receiver | 1965–1978 | | Barrel marking: "Ithaca, N.Y." | Pre-1973 | | Barrel marking: "King Ferry, N.Y." | 1973–1976 | | Barrel marking: "Geneseo, Ill." | 1977–1978 (very late) | | Saddle ring on left side | 1967–1975 (not all) | | Gold-colored trigger | 1970–1972 deluxe | | Plastic trigger guard | None were factory; indicates aftermarket replacment |
Based on collector-compiled data from survivor rifles and factory shipping ledgers (partial), here is the best-known breakdown:
| Approximate Year | Serial Number Range | Key Features | |----------------------|------------------------|-------------------| | 1961 (1st year) | 100 – 2500 | Flat-back receiver, non-serialized barrel, no saddle ring | | 1962–1963 | 2501 – 15000 | Flat-back receiver, stamped "Ithaca Gun Co. Ithaca, N.Y." | | 1964–1966 | 15001 – 65000 | Round-back receiver introduced, some with saddle ring | | 1967–1969 | 65001 – 145000 | “Saddle Gun” markings appear on barrel | | 1970–1972 | 145001 – 225000 | Gold trigger on some deluxe models | | 1973–1975 | 225001 – 300000 | King Ferry address on barrel (instead of Ithaca) | | 1976–1978 | 300001 – 350000+ | Last production runs, some stamped "Geneseo, Ill" |
Portable rule of thumb: