Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup Portable May 2026

The Ithaca Model 49 Saddlegun, produced between 1961 and 1978, is a classic single-shot .22 caliber rifle that remains a favorite for collectors and new shooters alike. Tracking its history through serial numbers can be complex, as record-keeping for this specific model is less centralized than for Ithaca's famous shotguns. Locating and Interpreting the Serial Number

For most Ithaca Model 49 rifles, the serial number is located on the left side of the receiver. However, it is important to note that rifles manufactured prior to the Gun Control Act of 1968 were often not serialized.

Prefix Identification: Many Model 49 serial numbers begin with the digits "49" (e.g., 490xxxxxx).

Format: Later models may feature a longer string of digits, such as "490328869" or "490440838," typically found on the alloy receiver.

Magnum Models: Specific variations like the .22 Magnum (WMR) often fall within distinct numerical ranges, such as the 156,000 series. Determining Manufacture Date

Unlike many modern firearms, there is no automated "portable" online database that provides an instant date for every Ithaca Model 49. Instead, researchers rely on a combination of factory records and physical characteristics:

Official Records: The Cody Firearms Records Office holds the most comprehensive set of Ithaca factory ledgers, though availability for the Model 49 can be hit-or-miss. Physical Evolution:

Early Models (1961–mid-60s): Often featured walnut stocks and folding buckhorn rear sights. ithaca model 49 serial number lookup portable

Later Models: Transitioned to hardwood (elm or birch) and simplified flat-top rear sights.

Bicentennial Edition: A limited "St. Louis" bicentennial model was produced around 1976. Key Specifications & Action

The Model 49 is known for its Martini-style falling block action, which is operated by a lever that resembles a traditional Winchester repeater. Despite the "magazine tube" under the barrel, it is a single-shot rifle; the tube is purely aesthetic to give it a "Western" look. Because the receiver is made of a zinc-aluminum alloy, it is highly recommended to avoid frequent disassembly, as the soft material can wear easily at the pin locations.

For a formal verification of a specific serial number, contacting the Ithaca Gun Company or the Cody Firearms Museum is the most reliable method for collectors. Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.

Identifying the age of an Ithaca Model 49 "Saddlegun" can be tricky because official serial number records for this specific model are notably incomplete. This rimfire rifle, stylized to look like a classic Winchester lever-action, was produced from 1961 through 1978/1979. Where to Find the Serial Number

The serial number on an Ithaca Model 49 is typically stamped into the left front side of the action case, parallel to the barrel and forward of the trigger.

Pre-1968 Models: Many early units (1961–1967) may have no serial number at all. Serialization only became mandatory with the Gun Control Act of 1968. The Ithaca Model 49 Saddlegun, produced between 1961

Post-1968 Models: Serial numbers often begin with the prefix 49 and are followed by a six- or nine-digit string. How to Date Your Rifle

Since detailed year-by-year serial number tables for the Model 49 aren't publicly available, you can use these physical markers to narrow down the era:

1961–1967 (No Serial Number): If your rifle lacks a serial number, it was almost certainly manufactured before 1968. Early vs. Late Features:

Stock Material: Early models used American Walnut, while later production shifted to hardwoods like elm or birch.

Sights: Older versions often featured folding buckhorn rear sights, which were later replaced by a simpler flat-top design.

Front Sight: Early units had a barrel band with an integral front sight; later models used a dovetail front sight. Expert Lookup Resources

For more precise identification, you can consult databases or specialized collectors: 1962–early 1968 = no serial required

Ithaca Gun Co. Official Site: While their online serial number guide focuses heavily on shotguns (like the Model 37), it is a primary starting point for company history.

Firearms Guide: Provides a searchable database for various Ithaca firearms manufactured from 1880–1986.

Buffalo Bill Center of the West: They hold the Cody Firearms Records, which include many Ithaca records, though they note that post-1939 records remain incomplete. Do you have the serial number handy, or22 Magnum version? Serial Numbers - Ithaca Gun Co.

---

4. No Serial Number? (Pre-1968)

• 1962–early 1968 = no serial required.
• Some late 1968 guns do have serials (post-GCA).
• If no serial, approximate year by checking:
  • Saddle ring on left receiver? → 1962–1965
  • No saddle ring → 1965–1968
  • Barrel stamp: “Ithaca Gun Co. – Ithaca, N.Y.” (pre-1968) vs. “Ithaca, N.Y.” (later)

Title

Ithaca Model 49 Serial Number Lookup (Portable Reference)

2. Where to Find the Serial Number

Look on the left side of the receiver (the metal housing around the breech). It is stamped horizontally near the rear, just above the stock line.

⚠️ Very early models (1962–1965) 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.

How to "Date" Your Serial Number

Since a serial number lookup won't yield a date, you must look at the physical features of the gun to determine its production era.