The Ithaca Model 49 was produced from 1961 to 1979, and during this time, over 250,000 firearms were manufactured. Here are some approximate serial number ranges for the Ithaca Model 49:
Keep in mind that these serial number ranges are approximate and may not be exact.
do not have serial numbers. If your rifle lacks a serial number, it was likely manufactured between 1961 and late 1968 Post-1968 Models ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable
Since serial numbers are unreliable or absent, you can approximate the age of any Ithaca Model 49 by examining these :
| Approximate Year | Observed Serial Number Range | |------------------|------------------------------| | 1969 | 100,000 – 120,000 | | 1970-1971 | 120,000 – 140,000 | | 1972-1973 | 140,000 – 160,000 | | 1974-1975 | 160,000 – 180,000 | | 1976 | 180,000 – 195,000 | | 1977-1978 | 195,000 – 210,000 | The Ithaca Model 49 was produced from 1961
There was no recorded production of certain Ithaca lines during these years. Ithaca Gun Company Identifying Your Model 49 Description Action Type Martini-style "falling block" single-shot. .22 Short, Long, Long Rifle, or .22 Magnum. Barrel Length Standard 18 or 18.5 inches.
Beginning in 1969, the serial numbers changed to a nine-digit format, starting with "490" (e.g., 490XXXXXX) to comply with the Gun Control Act of 1968. Quick Reference Production Range Serial Number Range Estimated Production Years No Number 1961–1963 (Early) No Number (No "Made in USA") 1961–Mid 1962 120,000–160,000+ (Approx) 1964–1968 490xxxxxx 1969–1979 How to Find Your Serial Number If your rifle lacks a serial number, it
The need for a "portable" lookup method is a real-world requirement for collectors at gun shows and shops. Here is a quick reference for estimating a Model 49's age at a glance:
The Ithaca Model 49, often affectionately termed the "Saddlegun," is a iconic single-shot .22 caliber rifle produced by the Ithaca Gun Company between 1961 and 1979. Known for its resemblance to a Winchester lever-action, despite being a falling-block design, it is a popular collector's item and a classic "first gun" for many shooters.
A seller might claim a Model 49 is a “rare first year” when the serial number (e.g., 49850) actually places it in 1965. Conversely, a late-model rifle with a very low serial number might indicate a restamp or a parts gun.
The was manufactured between 1960 and 1979 . Because this model was a budget-friendly firearm produced during a time when serial numbering wasn't always strictly required by federal law, definitive year-by-year lookup charts for this specific model are rare and often incomplete. Serial Number Tracking & Identification