Which Shotgun is Better: Winchester M1897 vs. Ithaca 37

Choosing between the Winchester M1897 and the Ithaca 37 can be a tricky decision, given their similar specifications and performance across various shooting scenarios. However, to provide a more comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the features, reliability, and overall suitability of each shotgun model.

Historical Context and Reliability

Both the Winchester M1897 and the Ithaca 37 are renowned for their robust and durable construction. The Winchester M1897, being half a century older than the Ithaca 37, has an extensive legacy in both hunting and law enforcement. Despite this, my own experience suggests that the Ithaca 37 may offer a slight edge in terms of reliability and modern craftsmanship, particularly when it comes to the original models.

A particular issue to watch out for with the Ithaca Featherweight, a later version produced in the late 1960s, is the use of spot welding on the slides. Several batches of these guns developed issues, with the slides breaking over time due to the cheaper manufacturing process. In contrast, the Ithaca 37s sold to the public were not subject to these same issues. This is a crucial consideration if you are looking for a shotgun that will last you many years without maintenance hassles.

Performance and Use Cases

The Ithaca 37 and Winchester M1897 both offer the same 12-gauge caliber, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of ammunition, from small game birds to deer slugs. The choice between the two models largely depends on your specific needs and personal preferences.

General Versatility

Both shotguns are excellent for small game birds, such as pheasants and quail, as well as for hunting larger game like deer. The Ithaca 37, with its factory-fitted Deerslayer slug barrel, excels in the latter, providing superb accuracy and penetration. This makes it an ideal choice for those who need a reliable shotgun for both small and large game hunting.

Slugs and Shot Versatility

The Deerslayer model of the Ithaca 37 is particularly noteworthy for its ability to handle both slugs and shot. Before the advent of rifled shotgun barrels, this model was a favorite among big game hunters in shotgun-only counties. The barrel is specifically bored to accommodate common hollow-based rifled slugs, making it an excellent choice for those who need a shotgun capable of handling both slugs and shot with ease.

Design and Ergonomics

Moving on to the design and ergonomic features of these shotguns, the Ithaca 37 stands out for its user-friendly slide and pump systems. Unlike the M1897, which has a slide that ejection port that ejects shells from the right side, the Ithaca 37 features an ambidextrous design. This means that a left-handed shooter can use the same firearm as a right-handed shooter, reducing the learning curve and making the gun more versatile in the field.

In contrast, the Winchester M1897 has a pump release button and ejection port on the right side, which can make it less friendly to left-handed shooters. The Ithaca 37 also offers the capability for slamfire, a technique that allows the shooter to shoot multiple rounds in rapid succession, which is not available on the Winchester M1897. This feature, known as slamfire, can be particularly useful for those who need quick and efficient shooting in different situations.

Additionally, the Ithaca 37 is known for its light weight, which is why it's called the Featherweight. This lightweight design, along with its smooth balance and reliable action, makes it a great choice for both small game birds and deer slugs, providing a comfortable and manageable weapon for extended hunting sessions.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether the Winchester M1897 or the Ithaca 37 is better depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a reliable shotgun that offers a wide range of performance options, the Ithaca 37 is the better choice. However, if you are a collector or need a shotgun specifically for serious use, the M1897's age and classic design might make it the preferred option.

For those considering a purchase, the key takeaway is that the Ithaca 37 offers excellent reliability, versatility, and ergonomic design, making it an ideal choice for hunters and enthusiasts alike. With its Deerslayer slug barrel and slamfire capability, the Ithaca 37 is a more modern and robust option compared to the Winchester M1897, cementing its place as a preferred choice in the world of shotguns.