Ithaca Model 37 LAPD 12 GA 28″ 18 1/2″ Engraved Pump Action Shotgun, 1981
SOLD FOR: $3075
LSB#: 220127TC001
Make: Ithaca
Model: 37, L.A.P.D. Commemorative
Serial Number: LAPD-0362
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Gauge: 12 Gauge 2 3/4? Chamber
Action Type: Pump/Slide Action, Tube Magazine Fed Shotgun
Markings: The left side of each barrel is marked “L.A.P.D. COMMEMORATIVE / MODEL 37-FEATHERLIGHT®-12 GA.-2 3/4 CHAMBER-PROOF TESTED / ITHACA GUN CO., INC. ITHACA, N.Y. MADE IN U.S.A. – ROTO FORGED®”, the 28? barrel is also marked “MOD.”. The left of the receiver is marked “CITY OF LOS ANGELES / 200th ANNIVERSARY / 1781 ~ 1981” in gold with gold engravings of Los Angeles city hall over “COMMEMORATIVE” on a banner and the entrance to the LAPD Academy surrounded by scroll relief engraving. The right is marked with the serial number, “LAPD-0362” at the bottom-rear and “TO PROTECT AND TO SERVE” on a gold banner, LAPRAAC, City of Los Angeles and LAPD seals in gold surrounded by scroll relief engraving. The grip cap is decorated with an LAPD officer’s badge.
Barrel Length: 28” Vent-Rib and 18 1/2?
Choke: 28?: Modified, Fixed, 18 1/2?: Cylinder Bore
Sights/Optics: The 28? barrel is mounted with a white bead in a base at the front of the rib. The top of the rib and receiver are serrated for glare reduction. The 18 1/2? barrel has a gold-colored blade in a serrated, ramped base fixed to the front of the barrel and a square notch dovetailed to a base fixed to the back of the barrel.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are a two piece checkered select walnut set with capped pistol grip, straight comb and ventilated brown rubber Ithaca recoil pad. There are scant handling marks, but otherwise the stocks are free of any notable wear or damage. LOP measures 14? from the front of the trigger to the back of the recoil pad. The pad has only minor handling wear and the rubber is still quite supple. Overall, the stocks are in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued with Gold Plating
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright, and there is no erosion in either. There is a bit more minor fouling at the muzzle of the 28” barrel.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. The 18 1/2” barrel has a few minor nicks along the top including one longer drag line through the finish, and the 28” barrel has light scuff wear where it meets the forend. The receiver has stubborn spots of residue, likely from sitting in packaging for extended periods of time. The screw heads are sharp and the markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The shotgun ejects out the bottom of the receiver. It cannot be slam-fired. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This shotgun comes with a leather-bound hard-sided carry case with brass latches and lock, tan felt padded interior.
Our Assessment: The Ithaca 37 has a long history, seeing use by American sportsmen, law enforcement, and military. This is a commemorative shotgun kit ordered and sold through the Los Angeles Police Revolver and Athletic Club (LAPRAAC), located at the LAPD Academy—home to the handgun ranges built for the 1932 Olympics which were hosted by Los Angeles. The case and gun have survived the last 41 years rather well, with the gun showing very little wear from operation beyond a few light scuffs on the longer barrel and the residue on the receiver. This commemorative was limited to only 1981 units, making for one heck of a neat rarity! This is also one of those ordered with the optional two-barrel set, having both a 28? vent-rib barrel and an 18 1/2? riot barrel with rifle sights. If you are a collector of police, or in particular, LAPD memorabilia, this is a rare opportunity not often seen. Please see our photos and good luck!