Lloyd, “breeches so-thick they look like it might be a double-rifle” are actually by Ithaca intent. In the 1890’s when there was still a lot of disagreement about the safety of the transition from black to smokeless, Ithaca actually marketed their guns as having a “double thick breech” to try and reassure skeptics that they were safe with smokeless powder. However, I have only seen them advertised in 1898 - 1900 guns. So once you get the gun in your hands and you can double check the number and actually measure the breech wall thickness, you might have the latest “double thick breech” gun that I’m aware of. Also, at about the same time, the NIG got the bolstered frame that yours has (either late 1897 or early 1898.). As you would imagine these guns are stout.

I have the fraternal twin to your gun but in 16ga including those beautiful 32” twist barrels. Having a “few” Ithacas I have to say that none comes close to the smoothness of the action on these “double thick” guns. I’ve described mine as bank vault smooth. I hope yours is as well.

The patent for the NIG is dated 13 September 1887 with the first actual NIG being #6550, a 10ga made in December 1887. Production continued through 1915. The Crass hammerless doubles were built from 1888-1901.

Last edited by FallCreekFan; 04/19/25 10:50 AM.
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