Built specifically for the .22 WMR (.22 Magnum) cartridge. These feature a slightly different extractor mechanism to handle higher pressures.
The serial number on your Ithaca Model 49 rifle can be found in two locations:
Because Ithaca Gun Company records from the 1960s and 1970s can be fragmented, lookups rely on specific rules of thumb.
Since exact dates are impossible to pinpoint, collectors use known design changes and material variations to estimate a rifle's age. The following table outlines the key production eras and their associated features:
Now that you have your serial number (or confirmed its absence), you can begin your portable research. You don't need any special equipment, just access to the internet.
, manufacturers weren’t legally required to serial number rimfire rifles. If your Model 49 has no serial number at all, it was likely manufactured between 1961 and 1968 2. Identifying the Model Variations
To check your rifle against the lookup database, inspect these three specific locations on the firearm:
(For a printed/portable paper, include references from authoritative gun-reference books, museum catalogs, and known collector guides—search these sources for specifics to cite.)
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. The Ithaca Model 49 – A Western-Inspired Classic!
| 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 |
If you are using this guide on a portable device while inspecting a gun in the field, look closely at physical design shifts. These physical features help narrow down the manufacturing timeframe when a serial number is ambiguous or missing. Feature Type Early Era (1961–1968) Middle Era (1969–1975) Late Era (1976–1979) Completely Absent Begins with 49 / 490 Begins with 240 Wood Stock Hardwood (Elm/Birch) Hardwood (Plain stained) Front Sight Barrel band with integral sight Switched to dovetail mount Adjustable dovetail Rear Sight Folding buckhorn style Flat top simple notch Square notch blade Knowing Your Model 49 Variations
The most common location for post-1968 models. The number is stamped directly into the alloy receiver coat.
: Featured upgraded gold-plated triggers, gold hammer accents, and walnut stocks even into the mid-production eras.
: A true repeating version featuring an actual functioning magazine tube. This variant is completely distinct mechanically from the dropping-breech single-shot model. Maintenance Tips for Field Buyers
: A limited "St. Louis" bicentennial model was produced around 1976. Key Specifications & Action
Older versions often featured folding buckhorn rear sights, which were later replaced by a simpler flat-top design.
