A Legacy Forged in Steel and Wood
To understand the Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge, one must first appreciate the legacy of the Ithaca Gun Company. Founded in 1880, the Ithaca Gun Company quickly established itself as a prominent name in the firearms industry. Known for producing high-quality shotguns, including the iconic Ithaca Model 37, the company had a reputation for craftsmanship and reliability. The M66, introduced during the mid-20th century, was intended to meet a different set of needs: a simple, affordable, and user-friendly shotgun, perfectly suited for introducing young people to the sport of hunting and shooting. The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge found its niche by offering a straightforward, reliable, and accessible platform for young hunters.
The M66 Super Single’s production spanned several decades, cementing its place in the history of American firearms. While there were no sweeping yearly changes to the design, minor improvements and variations sometimes appeared, and different model versions were introduced over time. This longevity speaks volumes about the soundness of its design and its enduring popularity. Throughout its manufacturing life, the Ithaca M66 Super Single retained its core characteristics: simplicity, robustness, and affordability.
Understanding the 20 Gauge Experience
The 20 gauge is an ideal cartridge for youth hunters and those who want a lighter-recoiling option. It strikes a good balance between power and manageability. The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge, with its compact design, provides an excellent platform for this cartridge. The 20 gauge allows young shooters to develop confidence and skills with reduced felt recoil compared to the larger 12 gauge, making it an excellent choice for starting out. The ammunition is also relatively inexpensive, adding to the appeal for families on a budget. The 20 gauge is still effective for small game hunting and can hold its own with larger game animals with proper shot placement.
Unveiling the Technical Specifications
The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge boasts a simple yet functional design. Its break-action mechanism is the hallmark of the gun’s operational simplicity. The barrel is hinged, and when opened, the spent shell casing is automatically ejected (if a spent shell is present). Here’s a look at some key technical details that make it so appealing:
Caliber
The focal point of this discussion, the Ithaca M66 Super Single is chambered for the 20 gauge shotgun shell.
Action Type
This is a single-shot, break-action shotgun. This means the shooter must manually load a shell into the chamber after each shot.
Barrel Length
The barrel length could vary slightly, but commonly ranged from around 26 to 28 inches. The length provided a good balance of maneuverability and effective range for hunting.
Choke
While specifications could vary slightly, many Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge shotguns came with a fixed choke, a constricted barrel end designed to control the spread of the shot. Commonly, this choke would be modified to improve pellet patterning for specific tasks.
Overall Dimensions and Weight
The overall length and weight made it well-suited for youth and smaller-statured shooters. The shorter barrel lengths contributed to a more manageable overall length, while the weight, often under six pounds, enhanced comfort during carry.
Materials and Construction
The receiver of the Ithaca M66 Super Single was generally made of steel, providing strength and durability. The barrel was also crafted from steel. The stock and fore-end were typically made of walnut or a durable hardwood. This combination of materials resulted in a sturdy and well-balanced firearm.
Sights
The sighting system of the M66 usually consisted of a simple bead sight at the end of the barrel. This setup allowed for quick target acquisition, crucial for the type of hunting for which it was often used.
Safety Mechanism
The Ithaca M66 often featured a simple safety mechanism located on the tang (the upper rear part of the receiver) of the gun.
Designed for Simplicity and Ease of Use
The design of the Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge revolves around ease of use. The single-shot action requires a single manual step for loading, unloading, and cycling. This simplicity helps new shooters understand the basics of firearm safety and operation without being overwhelmed by complex mechanisms. The break-action design facilitates a clear visual confirmation of the chamber’s status, adding another layer of safety and the opportunity to remove the shell easily.
The stock design of the Ithaca M66 Super Single was often designed with a shorter length of pull, the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock. This feature made the gun particularly suitable for youth hunters and smaller-framed shooters, as it ensures a comfortable and proper fit, which is critical for proper gun handling and shooting. The stock’s curvature and design also allowed for a natural and comfortable cheek weld, enabling the shooter to align their eye with the bead sight easily.
The gun’s balance is another of its strengths. The center of gravity is positioned to make the firearm point naturally. It’s a point-and-shoot gun that allows you to be reactive as needed.
Performance in the Field and on the Range
The 20 gauge, when used with the Ithaca M66 Super Single, offers a moderate level of recoil, making it more comfortable for youth and less experienced shooters compared to larger gauges. This also enables them to develop good shooting habits without the fear of excessive recoil.
Accuracy expectations for a single-shot shotgun are realistic. While not designed for long-range shooting, the Ithaca M66 Super Single can consistently deliver accurate shot patterns at typical hunting ranges for small game and upland birds. The reliability of the break-action mechanism contributes to its reputation for dependability. With proper care and maintenance, the M66 Super Single is capable of operating for decades.
A variety of ammunition types can be used. The shooter should select appropriate shot sizes for different game. For example, smaller shot sizes work for small game, while larger shot sizes are needed for waterfowl. Consult local regulations and safety guidelines.
Ideal Roles for the Ithaca M66 Super Single
The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge was, and remains, a great choice for introducing young people to the world of hunting. Its ease of use, mild recoil, and manageable size make it an excellent option for learning firearm safety, handling, and shooting fundamentals.
Beyond youth hunting, the M66 Super Single also has roles to fill. It can be a useful and affordable option for those new to shooting sports. It can serve as a backup gun for experienced shooters or a reliable option for someone looking for a simple, no-frills shotgun.
Finding and Maintaining Your Ithaca M66 Super Single
The Ithaca M66 Super Single, being an older model, is often found at gun shows, through online marketplaces, and at local gun shops. The value depends on its condition, with well-maintained examples commanding a higher price.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The gun should be regularly cleaned and lubricated. The bore of the barrel should be cleaned after each use. The metal surfaces should be wiped down to prevent rust. Proper storage is crucial to protecting the firearm from wear and tear. Ensure you store your Ithaca M66 Super Single in a secure and dry location. Consult a gunsmith if any repairs are needed, particularly with the firing mechanism.
Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
- Simple to operate and understand.
- Reliable and durable design.
- Affordable, often representing a good value.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Generally low recoil, making it comfortable for new shooters.
Cons
- Single-shot action limits rapid follow-up shots.
- Limited effective range compared to some other shotgun types.
- May lack some of the features found in more modern shotguns.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Compared to pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns, the Ithaca M66 Super Single is inherently simpler, both in terms of operation and mechanics. This simplicity is a major selling point, particularly for new shooters. In terms of alternatives, other single-shot shotguns, such as those made by H&R, are available. These models also offer similar benefits of simplicity and affordability. Pump-action shotguns provide more capacity, which can be beneficial for hunting or clay shooting. Semi-automatic shotguns offer even quicker follow-up shots, but usually at a higher price point and with more complex mechanisms. The choice depends on individual needs and priorities.
Wrapping Up: The Enduring Appeal
The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge continues to resonate with hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Its combination of simplicity, reliability, and affordability makes it a great choice for beginners, especially youth hunters. Its easy operation and manageable recoil make it easier to develop strong shooting skills. The Ithaca M66 Super Single 20 Gauge remains a symbol of a bygone era, still able to provide a simple and effective way to get started.
