Ithaca Crass

Ithaca Gun Company · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1892

Also known as: Ithaca Crass Model, Ithaca Hammerless Crass

Overview

The Ithaca Crass is a hammerless boxlock side-by-side double-barrel shotgun produced by the Ithaca Gun Company from 1892 to 1903. Designed by company toolmaker Fred Crass, it succeeded the earlier hammer-fired Baker-pattern Ithaca guns and gave the firm its first fully hammerless action with an improved internal cocking mechanism. Offered in 10, 12, and 16 gauge with double triggers and a top-lever break action, early guns wore Damascus or twist barrels typical of the era, with fluid-steel barrels introduced around 1902. The Crass marked Ithaca's transition into the modern hammerless double before being replaced by the Lewis Model in 1904.

Specifications

Weight (empty)	3400 g (119.9 oz)
Overall Length	1170 mm (46.06")
Barrel Length	762 mm (30.00")
Action Type	Break Action
Firing Mechanism	Hammer Fired
Trigger Type	Double Action
Muzzle Velocity	400 m/s (1312 fps)
Effective Range	40 m (44 yd)
Barrel Rifling	None
Frame Material	Steel
Barrel Material	Damascus Steel
Stock Material	Walnut
Finish	Blued

Calibers

12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12ga, 12 Bore

Features

Firing modes: Manual
Feed systems: Break Action Two Barrel
Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
Features: Side By Side Barrels, Hammerless Boxlock, Double Trigger, Top Lever Break Action, Extractor

Production

Estimated total produced: 76,873 · Production years: 1892-1903

Approximate figure derived from serial-number range 17,235 to 94,108 spanning the model's production run.

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Designer: Fred Crass

Discontinued: 1903

Notes

Production spanned serial numbers 17,235 to 94,108, after which the Lewis Model began at 94,109 in 1904. Offered in multiple quality grades from field guns to engraved higher grades.

Background

The Crass Model captures a pivotal moment in American gunmaking, when sporting doubles were shedding their external hammers and traditional Damascus barrels in favor of hammerless boxlocks and stronger fluid steel. Named for its designer, an in-house Ithaca toolmaker, it helped establish the small New York firm's reputation for durable, affordable field guns.