Dating an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddle Gun" can be tricky because production spanned roughly 1961 to 1979, and serialization was inconsistent before the Gun Control Act of 1968 . Quick Serial Number Reference
Pre-1968 Models: Many Ithaca 49s produced before 1968 do not have serial numbers at all .
Post-1968 Models: These usually feature a serial number starting with the prefix 49 .
Example Formats: You may see numbers like 490440838 or 156516 . How to Find Your Serial Number
On the Model 49, you will typically find the number stamped on the left side of the alloy receiver . If it is not there, check the barrel or the bottom of the receiver . Online Lookup & Records
Because Ithaca's historical records have gaps, there isn't a single "instant" online lookup tool specifically for the Model 49. However, you can use these resources to narrow it down:
Official Serial Lists: The Ithaca Gun Company Serial Numbers page provides broad ranges for various models, though it primarily focuses on shotguns like the Model 37 .
Historical Databases: Firearms Guide maintains a searchable database for Ithaca firearms manufactured between 1880 and 1986 .
Factory Letters: For a definitive history of your specific rifle, you can order a search or a formal letter from the Cody Firearms Records Office, which holds Ithaca's factory ledgers . Identification Tips
If you can't find a serial number, look for these design changes to estimate the age:
Early Models: Often featured walnut stocks and folding buckhorn rear sights .
Later Models: Transitioned to hardwood stocks (like elm or birch) and simplified flat-top rear sights .
Canadian Production: Some units were assembled at a plant in Dunnville, Ontario, which may be indicated on the barrel stamping .
Do you have a specific serial number you’d like me to try and cross-reference for you? Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
Before diving into the lookup process, it’s essential to understand the rifle itself. The Ithaca Model 49 was introduced in 1961 and remained in production until 1978 (some sources cite 1979). It was designed as a youth or entry-level rifle, but its all-steel construction, lever-action appearance, and surprisingly accurate single-shot mechanism made it popular among adults as well.
The rifle features a falling-block, single-shot action, disguised under a non-functioning lever. To load, you press a button on the left side of the receiver, swing the lever down (which cocks the internal striker), insert a .22 short, long, or long rifle cartridge, and then close the lever. It is not a true repeater, which adds to its safety as a trainer.
Ithaca produced over 350,000 Model 49s. Some were made in Ithaca, New York, and later in King Ferry, New York. Variations include barrel lengths (18.5” and 22”), saddle ring carbines, and even commemorative models.
While we cannot date the gun by the number, the serial number placement tells us about the gun's originality:
The Ithaca Model 49 serial number lookup portable is not a one-click app but a knowledge toolkit: understanding pre-1968 vs. post-1968 serialization, carrying a printed production table, and recognizing physical features. With this write-up and a small reference card, any collector or shooter can confidently date an Ithaca Model 49 anywhere—no WiFi, no cellular signal, no problem.
Final portable tip: Take a photo of this write-up and the serial table, save it to your phone’s offline album, or print it wallet-sized. Happy hunting.
The Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" was produced between 1960 and 1979. Determining the exact age of your rifle requires locating the serial number—typically on the left side of the receiver—and matching it against production records, which can be found in the Ithaca Serial Numbers Guide. Troubleshooting the Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable
Finding the manufacture date for this classic plinker is a common goal for collectors. Since over 500,000 were produced during its 20-year run, records are generally available but may require some digging. 1. Locate Your Serial Number Ithaca Model 49
, the serial number is most commonly stamped into the left side of the alloy receiver. On some variations, it may also be found on the barrel.
Action Type: This rifle features a single-shot falling block action operated by a lever, though it was designed with a faux magazine tube to resemble a Winchester '94.
Prefixes: Some models might include letter prefixes which help categorize the production run. 2. Match with Production Eras
While many Ithaca models have specific year-by-year tables, the is often categorized by major production milestones:
1960–1961: Initial launch of the single-shot .22 LR "Saddlegun". 1962–1969 : Production of the Model 49P (Presentation Grade) , which featured a gold-plated trigger and hammer. 1961–1978: The Model 49R (Repeater)
version was available for those wanting a tubular-fed magazine instead of a single shot.
Caliber Variants: The Model 49 was also produced in .22 Magnum and even as a .410 shotgun. 3. Professional Research Options
If your serial number doesn't appear in standard online charts, you can request an official factory letter:
Cody Firearms Records Office: They house many original Ithaca factory records. You can submit a search request through the Center of the West to get specific configuration and date data for your serial number. 4. Collector Value Indicators
Beyond the serial number, certain features can help date your rifle:
Receiver Finish: Early models used a paint-type finish on the aluminum alloy receiver that is prone to wear.
Wood Quality: Later models saw changes in wood types and the design of the faux magazine tube. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.
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
, 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. Dating an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddle Gun" can
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:
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.
For those with a smartphone but no data signal, consider downloading an offline reference app before heading to a show. Apps like GunSafe or Firearms Guide have offline searchable databases. However, for the Ithaca 49 specifically, a simple PDF screenshot of the serial number chart above is the most reliable portable tool.
The Ithaca Model 49 is a classic example of a "working class" .22 rifle that was never intended to be meticulously tracked by historians. The lack of a reliable serial number lookup system does not diminish its value or charm—it simply means that dating one requires a combination of physical observation and accepting approximation. If you own a non-serialized Model 49, you can confidently say it is from 1962–1968. If you have a serial number in the 150,000 range, it is likely a mid-1970s rifle.
For absolute precision, the only portable tool you need is a good reference book or a saved PDF of known serial number ranges—because no online database will give you a definitive answer.
Determining the age of a vintage rifle like the Ithaca Model 49
can be challenging because factory records from that era are often fragmented. However, by understanding the manufacturing timeline and knowing where to look, you can accurately narrow down the production year of your "Saddle Gun." Quick Reference for Ithaca Model 49 Production Ithaca Model 49
was produced between 1961 and 1979. Unlike modern firearms with digital databases, looking up this model requires cross-referencing serial number ranges and physical characteristics. Production Years 1961 – 1979 Action Type Lever-action, single-shot (Martini-style action) Calibers .22 Short, Long, Long Rifle; also .22 WMR (Magnum) Barrel Length 18.5 inches Serial Location Typically found on the receiver (often the side or bottom) Step 1: Locate the Serial Number
To begin your lookup, you must find the stamped identifier on the rifle. For the Ithaca Model 49 , check these common locations:
Side of the Receiver: Most commonly stamped on the left or right side of the alloy receiver.
Bottom of the Receiver: Some variations may have the number near the lever or trigger guard.
Note on Early Models: Very early production units (pre-1968) may lack a serial number entirely, as they were not federally required for rimfire rifles until the Gun Control Act of 1968. Step 2: Identify Your Variant
The serial number often correlates with the specific version of the Model 49 you own.
Standard Saddle Gun: The base model with a hardwood stock and alloy receiver. Deluxe Model: Features a gold-plated trigger and hammer. A Brief History: Why the Ithaca 49 is
Presentation Grade: Produced from 1962 to 1969, featuring an engraved receiver and gold-plated components.
Model 49R: A repeater version (magazine tube fed) that is less common than the single-shot variety. Step 3: Use Serial Number Ranges While a complete year-by-year public list for the
is difficult to find, you can use known data points to estimate the age:
490XXXXXX Series: These long 9-digit serial numbers are typically from later production years.
Low 6-digit Numbers: Serial numbers like 156XXX are often associated with early to mid-production .22 Magnum models. Expert Resources for Verification
If you need an official "birth certificate" for your rifle for insurance or collecting purposes, consider these professional lookup services: FAQ - Ithaca Gun Co.
The Ithaca Model 49 Saddle Gun, manufactured between 1961 and 1979
, is notoriously difficult to date precisely because factory records for this specific model are incomplete. While many Ithaca shotguns have clear year-by-year charts, the Model 49 relies on general production markers and serial number prefixes. Serial Number Location & Format The serial number is typically stamped on the left side of the alloy receiver Common Format: Many units feature a serial number starting with the prefix (e.g., 490xxxxxx), which identifies the model itself. Pre-1968 Units: Rifles manufactured before the Gun Control Act of 1968
were often not serialized at all, as federal law did not yet require it for most long guns. Production Timeline Indicators
Since a master chart does not exist, you can estimate the age based on these physical design changes: Early Models (1961–Mid 60s): Often featured genuine walnut stocks and a folding buckhorn rear sight. Later Models (Late 60s–1979): Switched to hardwoods like elm or birch
with pressed checkering. The rear sight was simplified to a flat-top version. Front Sight Evolution:
Early versions used a barrel band with an integral front sight; later models moved to a dovetail front sight that is windage-adjustable. Specific Model Variations
The serial number may also correlate with the specific variant of the Model 49 you own: Standard Grade: Single-shot, .22 caliber (Short, Long, or Long Rifle). Model 49 Magnum: Chambered specifically for .22 Magnum Model 49R:
version with a tubular magazine, produced for a shorter window before being replaced by the Model 72. Deluxe/Presentation Grades:
Feature gold-plated triggers and hammers or higher-grade wood finishes. How to Get Official Verification
If your serial number is present and you need an official date for insurance or collecting purposes, you can contact the Cody Firearms Records Office
, which houses the surviving Ithaca factory ledgers. They offer Factory Letters
and search services, though they note that records for post-1939 production are often "spotty" or incomplete. Buffalo Bill Center of the West What is the prefix or first few digits
of your serial number? Knowing that can help determine if it's a later production unit.
Follow local laws when handling or transporting firearms. This paper provides identification guidance only.