P Funk
11-12-2011, 3:53 PM
I have been looking for a pump field gun for a little bit and have found 2 in my area which have made the short list.
1. Browning Field (BPS) 12 gauge, 28", fixed full - serial number puts production around 1980. The gun is listed at 98%. I have held and worked the action, it looks like it is in great shape. I do NOT have the option of shooting before buying. Out the door for $340.
2. Ithaca M37 Featherlight 12 gauge, 28", fixed full - serial number puts manufactur date in the mid 1950s. Gun is around 90% (my guess) - wood on stock, foreend in good shape, looks like normal degradation of bluing on receiver+barrel. I have held and worked the action - feels great. Price = $400 + tax + dros ~$460. I would have the opportunity to shoot this prior to purchase.
My understanding is that the both guns are based on Browing's prototype Remington so I think they are functionally identical. They are both in really good shape for their respective ages. I will shoot the Ithaca in the next few days.
I'm looking to see if anyone has any knowledge of the quality (craftsmanship, qc) of the 2 manufacturers during period of production - Browning circa 1980, Ithaca circa mid-1950s. Or if there is anything else that I should be looking out for.
I'm hoping that there might be some info to help me make my decision.:confused::confused::confused:
Thanks in advance CGers! :)
1. Browning Field (BPS) 12 gauge, 28", fixed full - serial number puts production around 1980. The gun is listed at 98%. I have held and worked the action, it looks like it is in great shape. I do NOT have the option of shooting before buying. Out the door for $340.
2. Ithaca M37 Featherlight 12 gauge, 28", fixed full - serial number puts manufactur date in the mid 1950s. Gun is around 90% (my guess) - wood on stock, foreend in good shape, looks like normal degradation of bluing on receiver+barrel. I have held and worked the action - feels great. Price = $400 + tax + dros ~$460. I would have the opportunity to shoot this prior to purchase.
My understanding is that the both guns are based on Browing's prototype Remington so I think they are functionally identical. They are both in really good shape for their respective ages. I will shoot the Ithaca in the next few days.
I'm looking to see if anyone has any knowledge of the quality (craftsmanship, qc) of the 2 manufacturers during period of production - Browning circa 1980, Ithaca circa mid-1950s. Or if there is anything else that I should be looking out for.
I'm hoping that there might be some info to help me make my decision.:confused::confused::confused:
Thanks in advance CGers! :)