The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 gauge is a legendary firearm, prized by collectors and shooters alike for its unique design and reliable performance. This article delves into the history, features, variations, and overall appeal of this iconic single-shot shotgun. We'll explore what makes it special and why it continues to hold a place of honor among shotgun enthusiasts.
The History and Heritage of the Ithaca M66
The Ithaca Gun Company, established in 1880, built a reputation for crafting durable and high-quality firearms. The M66 Super Single, introduced in the mid-20th century, perfectly embodies this legacy. While precise production dates are debated among collectors, its introduction likely occurred sometime between the 1940s and 1960s, capitalizing on the growing popularity of single-shot shotguns for hunting and target shooting. Its simple, robust design, combined with Ithaca's reputation for quality, quickly established the M66 as a favorite among hunters and sport shooters.
The M66's Simple Elegance
Unlike more complex, mechanically intricate shotguns, the M66's beauty lies in its simplicity. Its straightforward design translates to reliability and ease of maintenance. This is a key factor in its enduring popularity. Fewer parts mean fewer potential points of failure, making it a trustworthy firearm in the field. This simplicity also made it relatively inexpensive to produce, contributing to its widespread availability.
Key Features of the Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge
The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 gauge boasts several key features that have cemented its place in history:
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Single-Shot Action: The hallmark of the M66 is its single-shot, break-action design. This means the barrel hinges open at the breech to allow for loading and unloading. This design is known for its reliability and ease of use.
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20 Gauge Caliber: The 20 gauge is a popular choice for hunters and sport shooters, offering a balance between power and recoil. It's versatile enough for various game, making the M66 suitable for a wide range of applications.
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Durable Construction: Ithaca firearms are known for their robust construction, and the M66 is no exception. Typically built with a steel receiver and a blued barrel, it's designed to withstand years of use.
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Simple Sights: The M66 typically features basic bead sights, which are sufficient for most hunting and target shooting applications. Its straightforward design eliminates the complexity of adjustable sights found on more advanced shotguns.
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Variations and Finishes: While the basic design remained consistent, the M66 saw some variations in stock material and finish over the years. You might find models with wood stocks of varying grades or even synthetic stocks.
Variations and Models
While the core design remained consistent, some variations exist within the Ithaca M66 line. These variations primarily involved differences in stock material (wood versus synthetic), stock style, and the overall finish (blued steel being the most common). Some collectors particularly value certain variations based on their rarity or perceived aesthetic appeal. Detailed research on specific serial numbers can help identify particular production years and subtle variations.
Why the M66 Remains Popular Today
The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 gauge continues to appeal to shooters for several reasons:
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Reliability: Its simple design translates directly to reliability. With fewer moving parts, there's less chance of malfunctions. This makes it a trustworthy firearm in any situation.
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Ease of Use: The break-action design is simple and intuitive, making it easy to learn and operate, even for novice shooters.
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Affordability: While prices have increased due to its collector status, the M66 was originally relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to a broader range of shooters.
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Collectibility: The Ithaca M66 is a sought-after collectible firearm, with certain variations commanding significant prices among collectors. Its historical significance and simple elegance make it a desirable addition to any firearm collection.
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Versatility: The 20 gauge caliber is appropriate for various hunting applications and target shooting, further adding to the shotgun's versatility.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Ithaca M66
The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 gauge stands as a testament to simple, robust design and enduring quality. Its straightforward operation, reliability, and historical significance continue to attract both practical shooters and discerning collectors. Whether you're looking for a reliable hunting shotgun or a piece of firearm history, the M66 deserves serious consideration. Its legacy as a classic shotgun is well-deserved and continues to inspire a loyal following.