While the Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup process can provide exact production dates, here are some general date ranges to keep in mind:
Because the Ithaca Gun Company did not maintain unified, digitized database public records specifically for this rimfire model, a "portable" lookup means understanding the distinct structural phases of production. Armed with this quick-reference knowledge, you can accurately date your rifle anywhere from a smartphone or a gun show floor. The Anatomy of the Ithaca Model 49
Typically a sequence of 6 sequential numbers (e.g., 156516 ).
Standard production; minor cosmetic changes to lever finish. 1976 – 1979 Alphanumeric coding introduced; final production run. How to Find the Serial Number on Your Rifle
Determining the exact production year of an requires locating its stamped identifier and cross-referencing it against specific federal manufacturing eras, as the factory did not maintain uniform public ledger databases for this specific rimfire rifle. Produced from 1961 until 1979 , the Model 49 remains a highly collectible, Western-styled single-shot lever-action .22 rifle. ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable
Some early models might have less prominent numbers or numbers on the bottom of the receiver.
The serial number of your Ithaca Model 49 is more than just a series of numbers; it holds the key to the firearm's history. By performing a serial number lookup, you can:
Check for "field marks" (scratches/dents) on the stock and rust on the 18.5-inch barrel. Value: In "Excellent" condition, the
⚠️ may have no serial number – Ithaca did not legally require serial numbers before the 1968 Gun Control Act. If no serial exists, the rifle is pre-1968. While the Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup
with pressed checkering. The rear sight was simplified to a flat-top version. Front Sight Evolution:
This comprehensive guide serves as your optimal , compact enough to reference on your smartphone or print out for a gun show, providing clear rules for decoding the age, variant, and history of your Ithaca Model 49. The GCA 1968 Split: The First Step in Identification
A: A laminated card with the serial number ranges printed on it, kept in your gun case or wallet.
Nearly all factory-serialized Model 49 rifles begin with the prefix . This was used by the factory to immediately distinguish the line from other firearms. For example, a serial number like 490328869 or 490552 designates a standard Model 49 run. 2. The Multi-Digit Progression (Late 1968–1979) Standard production; minor cosmetic changes to lever finish
The Model 49 family contained a few distinct sub-models. Make sure you identify the exact variation to value your piece properly: Model 49 Standard
If you are looking to date your Ithaca Model 49, understanding its serial number system—and its limitations—is key. This article serves as a portable, easy-to-use lookup guide for identifying the manufacturing year of your Model 49. 1. Where to Find the Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number
While exact factory logs for individual days of production are lost, the general breakdown of Ithaca Model 49 serialization correlates to the following timeline: Serial Number Range Estimated Year of Production Key Design Characteristics 1961 – 1968 Pre-GCA '68; early receiver finish; walnut or elm stock. 100,000 – 199,000 1968 – 1970