ITHACA GUN COMPANY MODEL 37 DEERSLAYER
Posted May 19, 2023
The Ithaca Gun Company Model 37 Deerslayer is a pump-action shotgun popular with hunters and sport shooters. It was designed in 1937 by gun designer John Pedersen and has been in continuous production for over eighty years. The Model 37 Deerslayer is considered to be extremely reliable and trouble-free, with its simple design and robust construction. It is one of the most popular shotguns used for hunting and shooting clays, and is renowned for its balance and accuracy.
The Model 37 Deerslayer is constructed of a solid steel alloy receiver combined with a select walnut stock and fore-end. It is a pump-action shotgun that is operated by cycling the slide on the fore-end. This cycling action cocks the gun, ejects any shells in the chamber, and brings a new shell into the chamber. It holds up to four rounds and is available in 12 or 20 gauge. The barrel length of the Model 37 Deerslayer ranges from 18 to 22 inches. Other features include a full choke or "improved cylinder" choke, a sapphire bead sight, and a matte black finish.
The Model 37 Deerslayer is known for its look, feel, and performance, particularly with the use of premium Remington or Federal Game Load shotgun shells. Its solid construction and balanced weight make it an excellent choice for recoil control, which is important for accurate and consistent shots. The shotgun is easy to keep on target and provides consistent, accurate shots even at longer ranges than other pump-action shotguns. It features a smooth trigger that allows for fast follow-up shots, making it a great choice for hunting and sporting clays.
As far as reliability, the Model 37 Deerslayer stands out for its reliable function and few parts that could break down. It is simple and easy to maintain, which makes it a great choice for those that don’t want to worry about complicated repair processes. The breech comes with a factory warranty that covers any mechanical issues that may arise, allowing for peace of mind.
The price of the Model 37 Deerslayer reflects its quality and popularity. The shotgun is relatively expensive compared to many other pump-action shotguns on the market, usually costing close to $1,000 brand new. While a used model may be cheaper, the purchase of a used shotgun always brings the risk of unknown wear and tear on the gun, which can affect its reliability and function.
Overall, the Ithaca Gun Company Model 37 Deerslayer is an excellent choice for those looking for an extremely reliable and well-built pump-action shotgun. Its solid construction, balanced weight, and reliability make it a great choice for hunting and shooting clays. It is an investment in quality, with the price reflecting its performance and durability.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Accurate and reliable
- Easy to disassemble and clean
- Very little felt recoil
- Can be used for hunting or home defense
- Can easily be adapted to take a scope
Cons:
- Not recommended for novice shooters
- Price point is relatively high
- Can't be used in hunting competitions due to its length
- Not as versatile as other shotguns
Who Should Buy
Anyone who wishes to hunt with a shotgun should purchase the Ithaca Gun Company Model 37 Deerslayer. This shotgun is designed for hunting and features a rifled barrel for better accuracy and a lightweight design for ease of carry.
However, those that are not experienced shotgun users should look elsewhere. The Model 37 is heavier than other weapons and may be too difficult for some people to manage. Additionally, some states may require additional certification or training in order to legally operate this weapon.
Comparisons
| Ithaca Gun Company Model 37 Deerslayer | Similar Shotgun Model 1 | Similar Shotgun Model 2 | Similar Shotgun Model 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauge: 12 Gauge | Gauge: 12 Gauge | Gauge: 12 Gauge | Gauge: 12 Gauge |
| Capacity: 4+1 | Capacity: 4+1 | Capacity: 6+1 | Capacity: 3+1 |
| Barrel Length: 28 in | Barrel Length: 26 in | Barrel Length: 28 in | Barrel Length: 20 in |
| Stock: Wood | Stock: Synthetic | Stock: Wood | Stock: Synthetic |
Features / Specs
• Gauge: 12 Gauge
• Barrel Length: 20” or 22”
• Receiver: Stainless steel or 33% thicker steel than other model 37s
• Stock: Synthetic American Walnut
• Capacity: 4+1
• Chokes: Fixed Improved Cylinder
• Front Sight: Brass bead
• Length of Pull: 14 ½”
• Overall Length: 38 ½” (20” barrel)
• Weight: 6.75 lbs.(20” barrel)
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Ithaca Gun Company Model 37 Deerslayer include: recoil pads, extended magazine tubes, choke tube sets, replacement barrels, butt stocks, sling swivels, and rifle sights.
Accuracy
Although ITHACA GUN COMPANY MODEL 37 DEERSLAYER does not have the most advanced technology, it undoubtedly has very good accuracy because of its classic design and solid craftsmanship. Many hunters and sportsmen have enjoyed the accuracy of the ITHACA GUN COMPANY MODEL 37 DEERSLAYER over the years because of its reliable, intuitive design. The gun has a smooth trigger and is known for its fine balance and instinctive aiming capabilities. Its barrel has been designed to aid in precision accuracy while its chambers have a deep rifling twist that helps to stabilize the bullet for more consistent accuracy. Not only is the accuracy of the ITHACA GUN COMPANY MODEL 37 DEERSLAYER considered to be one of its best features, the gun also has quite a few other advantages that make it a great choice for hunting and shooting. It’s lightweight and can be operated with a single hand, and its reliable design can hold up to the elements and wear and tear of years of use.
