Ithaca Baker Model
Ithaca Gun Company · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1880
Also known as: Ithaca Baker Gun, Baker Model Ithaca Double
Overview
The Ithaca Baker Model is a side-by-side, exposed-hammer double-barrel shotgun and the first firearm produced by the Ithaca Gun Company. Designed by gunsmith William Henry Baker, it used a boxlock receiver with hammers mounted at the extreme rear of the frame, locking up via an underbolt and a doll's-head extension on the barrel rib. Chambered most commonly in 12 gauge, it was offered with Damascus, twist, or steel barrels and marketed as the 'strongest, simplest and best American gun manufactured.' Produced from 1880 until 1889, it was superseded by the hammerless New Ithaca Gun.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3400 g (119.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1180 mm (46.46") |
| Barrel Length | 762 mm (30.00") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Double Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 2 rounds |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Wood |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12ga, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Break Open Barrels
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Hammers
- Features: Side By Side Barrels, Exposed Hammers, Boxlock Action, Top Break, Underbolt Locking, Dolls Head Extension
Service history
Operators
- Civilian sport and hunting market · adopted 1880
Production
Production years: 1880-1889
Serial numbers ranged roughly from 2447 to 10534, the latter reached January-August 1889 before the New Ithaca Gun replaced it.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: William Henry Baker
Discontinued: 1889
Notes
Baker Model Ithaca doubles were produced from roughly 1880 to 1889 with serial numbers running to about 10,534. Quality grades differed largely by barrel material - Damascus, twist, or Cockerill steel - on essentially the same receiver.
Background
William Henry Baker was a founding figure of the Ithaca Gun Company; the Baker Model launched the firm's long reputation for sturdy, well-made American double guns and was among the last exposed-hammer shotguns in wide production before hammerless designs took over.