Well I can give a short review of my brandy new Ithaca 37T now that I have a couple a boxes through her.

Getting the gun was a 8 week wait as Ithaca was in a production run of the 60:40 30" barrel that I wanted. When it finally came in I was curious as to why the mid bead was missing and thought it either fell out or was a factory "oversite" (pun intended). After searching the packaging and finding na-da, the dealer called the factory for me. Ithaca said that even though the rib are drilled for the mid bead, the bead itself as an option and was an additional $15. This was not offered on order placement nor is on the options list on the websight. I was handed the phone, and Ithaca reaffirmed that it would cost me an additional $15. I politely said it was unacceptable on a $900 gun and told them I was refusing delivery until the issue was resolved. Ithaca called the dealer back 15 minutes later and told him they were shipping the bead out priority mail at no charge. I was overall saddened with the customer service knowing how the "old" Ithaca treated their customers. Let's move ahead and hope this is just a growing pain at the factory...

The gun is built like a Swiss watch. Precision fit form and function through and through. I took her out of the box, gave her the new gun cleaning and away we went to the field. Shot 3 squads of trap 25 < yes 1st round, 24 and 25! Winchester 1200 fps STEEL shot out of the stock MOD choke.

The monte carlo stock is not oversized and cheek welds beautifully. Grip is comfy, similar to my Citori XT (my primary clay crusher) and the action is solid locking but cycles like the precision machine it is. Fluid, no drag, perfectly aligning, high quality, MADE IN THE USA, construction. The receiver is, I believe, the standard model 37 as the top is a matte blued and tapped to receive scope mounts. I was not liking the matte finish up top but convinced myself it eliminates any glare that would disrupt sighting. (Very well may be true, but I like it now) As for the scope mount holes, they are neatly plugged with the appropriate set screws but this beauty shoots so well I may have to install a scope for those "let me see how far I can let the clay fly" shots. I was "playing" later and allowing others to shoot the 37T and swear the clays were dying of old age they were so far out before smashing them. All liked the fit and were able to shoot her well without any trouble at all.

Bottom line, YES I would buy it again in a heartbeat. NO this is not a Kreighoff or a Ljutic but this sweetheart of a gun is withing the budget of most any trap shooting enthusiast. If you are looking for a premium gun at a reasonable price, buy one but make sure you tell them to throw in the mid bead at no charge!!

PS - I have not patterned her but feel it is 60:40 just like the doctor ordered.

Photos???

Rem29: Nice review, but are things that bad at Ithaca that they attempted to squeeze out another $15.00 from a new customer? That's pitiful to say the least. In the early 70's I had a trap grade of theirs with beautiful figured wood. How is the wood on your trap model? Steve Balistreri

$900.00 for a bottom eject pump gun. Give me a break!

Would it be worth $900 if it ejected out the top?

See -- people yap about "Buy American," but only good folks like Rem29 put their money where their mouth is.

-Gary

I'm suprised the receiver is tapped for a scope. My trap model isn't nor is every M37 they produce in Ohio. Glad you're happy but that wouldn't fly with me.

The drilled and tapped reciever would not fly with me. I would not accecpt that gun.

I would send it back. It is a piece of crap if they can't build a receiver without holes. And a hole in the rib but no sight? Give me a break.

Rem29;

Now aren't you glad you posted your review?

bluedsteel

I am a huge fan of the M37 and glad to see the new Ithaca company building them like they should be made. I don't know how they will fare in marketing their product which has machined steel and walnut against all the plastic fantastic stamped out guns that cost about 1/2 as much. Hopefully there are enough buyers out there that can appreciate the quality difference and the fact that is made in the USA.

here ya go. click the link above

Why steel shot??? Isn't that a little overkill?

I've always like how they were put together and bottom ejection.

Never could hit with one even after changing butt stocks.

The wood is very nice but not jaw-dropping gorgeous - I can't see it when I shoot anyways.

$900 for a bottom eject - yup that's what I posted. TY Gary for your support.

Yes, I am glad I posted. One size never fits all. What are you shooting eightbore?

Steel shot #7's as our field went "green". Don't know how the word overkill applies.

All replies meant with due respect.

REM29......this gun can be customized for an upcharge I suspect? Adjustable comb, and perhaps a fitted stock.....LOP and a fitting for a Lefty shooter. I got my first Model 37 in 1972.

Think that the 37 is the only pump still made with machined parts. I had no problem single loading mine, would probably still be shooting it if the bbl hadn't gotten bent so that it shot 3' left and 2' low had it straightened but was just never quite right, should have just bought a new bbl, and I do like the bottom ejection, will admit my Rem.31 is easier. ENJOY you new sweetheart. Ross Puls

A Browning BPS Trap model is about $799.99 msrp, last time I looked. Not made in the USA but doesn't have scope mount holes drilled in it eighter. Mid bead no extra charge.

Jason in PA

I think a trap barrel on a feild grade receiver w/ upgraded wood for $900.00 from Ithica is unreasonable. $15 for a midbead pfffff, better be ivory.

Jason in PA

How do you explain those holes in the receiver to the next potential buyer if some don't have the holes? A Model 12 Trap with holes in the receiver is worth about $200.

I'm glad you're happy that you posted a review. As far as the comments regarding the drilled and tapped receiver they are meant to be helpful. I personally would call and see what's up with that. It could affect resale value down the road. (not that I can imagine why you'd sell it) As far as options yes they are available. Mine has AAA wood, an adjustable comb from the factory and my receiver is very nicely engraved. $900 for a very high quality, custom shop, USA made trap model with a 60/40 rib and monte carlo stock is a wicked bargin. For those who disagree you'd really be up in arms as to what one like mine costs. Then again thats why 870 express and Mossberg 500 sell so well I guess.

I gave Ithaca a call and the rep seemed to understand my point about the receiver being drilled and tapped and matte on top. He said he would discuss it with the Marketing Manager to see what we can do. Excellent point about down the road selling if I chose to part with it. I will use this in my next discussion with Ithaca.

I sniffed out the Browning BPS and the fit just wasn't there for me nor was the precision of the action. You can get an adjustable stock but it was a longer wait than I wanted. I could get a two week turnaround on other premium stock modifiers for $200-$250. Will do if I needed but the gun fits and hits as it is.

I thank all of you for your comments. Points are well taken. Remember, I was providing you with an objective review and still would recommend the 37T.

No worries on the matte top, it's supposed to be that way to reduce glare, even the AAA grade 28ga comes that way.

For the same or less money,I would buy a good used M 12 or better grade 870. The bottom feed-ejection 37's are tough to clear when a jam-up occurs + pretty light for Trap. Just my experience. Clyde

The M37 is good for doubles tho. At lease you aren't slinging hulls on the shooter to your right.

GneJ

Want a real pump trap gun? Get a Model 12 Winchester !!!!!!!!!!!

Smoker, if ya want a REAL pump gun, use a 97 Winchester.

The website states the Trap model has a "crisp 4-6 pound trigger."

(snicker)

I don't care if it was built in the Virgin Mary's bedroom...that's funny right there.

Jams ups are difficult to clear if you don't know how. I can have the barrel off any of my several 37's in ten seconds, clear the jam in five, and have the barrel back on in another ten seconds. Try that with your 500, 870, or model 12.

Obviosly the trap model has the same reciever that the other guns have. Have you seen any other guns based on hunting models that didn't? You need to get a life. As far as weight they are as heavy as my BT99. I added an adjustable comb and lenght of pull butt pad adjuster to get the fit I needed. My gun as ordered came with the 70/30 rib with the mid bead. I ordered an additional 60/40 rib that did not come with the mid bead but I installed one in 10 minutes. Yes they should come with the mid bead but it is no big thing to install one. As far as trigger pull there is no creep and it lets off very nice. Mine trigger is at 4 lbs. and if you need better than that you should spend $10,000 on a gun that is better.

I choose to ignore the get a life comment if directed in my general direction. (really don't think it is but....) I try to share what is going on to help out and or entertain others. Yes the receivers are all the same but the trap receiver does not get the drill/tap treatment for scope mounting. (So they are different?)

All that said, I contacted Ithaca and they were very cooperative and will replace the receiver on my gun at no charge. There will be a 2 - 3 week turnaround but good things come to those who wait. I hope to get her sent out early next week. Trigger pull is "sweet" no creep and like snapping a glass rod. I'm very happy with it as well as the weight and hope all get a chance to try one out.

Rem29,

Glad to hear they are taking care of you, I figured they would. Ithaca's customer service is top notch. Take some of the posts in stride it is the internet afterall. Most people have never seen or handled a new Ohio made Ithaca and have no idea what they are all about now. Enjoy yours it's a heck of a nice gun.

Wireguy .... I've never had a Model 12 jam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for the review. I have very fond memories of my late 37 (Featherlight)--thanks GW...i must be getting old / 20. Great little grouse gun.

Your experience lines up with what I have been reading elsewhere....simple oversites by a new company that appears to not have a very sophisticated marketing component. I hope they can stay in game long enough to get the kinks worked out.

FEATHERlight, Brother - Featherlight. I have fond memories of my Dad's.

-Gary

Ithaca made an "Ultra" light 20 with an aluminum receiver

The monte carlo comb appears to drop to the rear, when it should be parallel to the bore or even sloping slightly to the front. How is it for cheek comfort?

And drilled and tapped receiver? Just what Joe Kuhn would like.

Myself, I've never cared for the Model 37, but they are built like tanks. A couple of my southpaw friends love them. My beef has mainly been with the poorly designed field buttstock. I can't see the front bead with some of their stocks. Too much drop.

Speaking of an aluminum receiver 37, it looks like the Featherweight is back in production. Including this purty 28 ga gold inlaid Featherweight.

I have owned both a Winchester model 12 trap that was made in the 1950's anf an Ithica model 37 Supreme Trap manufactured in the late 1960's. I traded the M37 for an O/U Italian wonder gun. BIGGEST mistake I ever made. The model 12 was a good gun, but the model 37 was the gun that pointed so fast that the target was a black cloud before most shooters could get their gun swinging.

As far as the bottom ejection is concerned, it has several advantages that side ejectors don't have. As mentioned, it ejects down and does not throw an emty hull into the shooter to your right. If you have a case jam in the chamber,(I did once have an AA that had been reloaded about 20 times)you can get the barrel off in less than 10 seconds. I think wireguy had a cup of coffee while he was clearing his.

I have had the pleasure of handling a new model 37T. It is everything that the old one was with the exception of the fancy wood.

I think I'll buy one just because.

My "plain barrel" 20 gauge 30" full Remington Model 17 dove shooter. Pappy to the 37!

mcneeley5: Wish my M17 looked that NICE. Ross Puls

Well my new Ithaca is back from having the receiver replaced ( to one not drilled / tapped for scope) and I am very pleased with the outcome. Total of two week turnaround and the craftsmanship of fitting receiver to stock is flawless. Ithaca kept me fully informed as to the status of my work being done and sent me a notice that it was being shipped along with tracking info so I could tell FFL when it was to arrive.

Took her out last Thursday night for a seven course meal of Winchester 1200 FPS 1-1/8 oz steel loads and she smashed clay like it was her job. Much fun on the trap field and even more fun on the skeet field rocking that silky smooth action on the doubles (main reason I bought it).

After all the snafus, I am still very happy with my purchase and highly recommend you go out and shoot one for fun. Solid, smooth, precision mechanism, proudly built in the USA. It may be a more expensive pump but I feel it is a bargain for the quality. Hats off to you Ithaca !

Ross..How did you ever bend the barrel that much? When I was a kid one of my friends got his shotgun caught in the tractor wheel, that'll pur a bend in it. Bill

Rem29--Thanks for the review. I own several M37's, maybe it's time for a new one.

I bought a 28" bbl. M37 in 28 Ga. when they first came out a couple of years back. After having the barrel shortened to 26" and a Cutts installed the grouse and woodcock in New England tremble at the mention of my name :). At less than 6 lbs., and with a spreader Cutts tube installed, it is the perfect gun for an old fart with a slow working setter.

Seriously, I second all of the positive comments in previous posts. The "new" M37 is a tribute to what American gun manufacturers can accomplish if they really want to produce a quality product IMHO.

Woot!

My dove shooting buddy shoots an older M37, and together they are a dove killing machine. It's a pleasure just watching him shoot. I think I'm gonna buy one.

I would love to hear others reviews to compare notes. It is great to see an American company get it right. An acquaintance just took ownership of a M37 in 20 gauge. Nothing but pure sweetness.

Have a great weekend all . . . . Gary