Description
Ever wondered what it feels like to shoulder a piece of American firearms history that’s ready for a new generation? The New Ithaca Field Grade isn’t just a reissue; it’s a modern interpretation of a classic, built for the field, the range, and the family safe.
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in family-oriented firearms and tactical gear. The New Ithaca Field Grade is a modern pump-action shotgun built on the legacy of a legendary American name. This model delivers reliable performance at a value-focused price point. Available now for $687.74 (regularly $800.99).
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 25, 2026
Why This Shotgun Belongs in Your Collection
Having handled everything from high-end competition over-unders to department-issue tactical pumps, I appreciate a shotgun that knows its role and excels at it. The New Ithaca Field Grade isn’t trying to be a tricked-out home defense gun or a delicate skeet champion. It’s a working shotgun. The action is smooth for a new gun—it’ll only get better with use—and the fit, while utilitarian, is solid. It reminds me of the guns I used to see in police armories: no frills, just function. For a family looking for a dependable, all-purpose shotgun for hunting, clays, or learning the fundamentals, this Ithaca’s credit rating with shooters is built on that straightforward reliability. It’s the kind of tool you can trust to work when you need it, without worrying about scratching the finish.
New Ithaca Field Grade Specifications
| Product Type | Pump-Action Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Material (Receiver/Barrel) | Steel / Steel |
| Manufacturing | Modern CNC Machining |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Walnut-Finished Hardwood Stock |
| Hardness/Quality | Heat-Treated Steel Components |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, 3″ Chambers |
| Installation/Usage | Field-ready, Manual Safety |
| Weight (Approx.) | 7.5 lbs |
| Dimensions (Barrel) | 28″ Vent Rib Barrel |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | Brand New, Factory Fresh |
| SKU | ITH-FIELD-12-28 |
How It Stacks Up: The Field Grade vs. The Competition
| Feature | New Ithaca Field Grade | Budget Import Pump (e.g., Turkish ~$350) | Premium American Pump (e.g., Remington 870 Wingmaster ~$900+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | All-steel receiver & barrel | Often alloy receivers, thinner steel | All-steel, highly polished |
| Quality | Solid, functional fit & finish | Variable; can be rough | Excellent, refined finish |
| Compatibility | Standard 12ga; aftermarket parts growing | Proprietary; limited parts | Vast aftermarket support |
| Shipping | ✅ Same-day from TX | Varies by retailer | Often backordered |
| Lifespan/Durability | Built for long-term field use | Questionable long-term durability | Proven multi-generational durability |
| Price | $687.74 (Our Price) | ~$350 – $500 | $900 – $1,200+ |
The Field Grade sits in the sweet spot. You’re not paying for the fancy scrollwork of the premium tier, but you’re getting American-made steel and a reputable name that far outclasses the budget imports in terms of material integrity and long-term serviceability. It’s the smart buy for the practical shooter.
The Honest Breakdown: Pros & Cons
What I like:
- ✅ American-Made Core: Steel receiver and barrel from a historic brand matters for durability.
- ✅ Classic Handling: The 28″ barrel and balanced weight swing naturally for wingshooting.
- ✅ Ready for Work: Comes field-ready with a vent rib and bead sight—no immediate upgrades needed.
- ✅ Smooth Pump Action: The action is clean for a new gun and will wear in beautifully.
- ✅ Strong Value: At this price point for a US-made pump, it’s hard to beat.
What you should know:
- ❌ Utilitarian Finish: The bluing and wood finish are functional, not showpiece-grade. It’s a field gun.
- ❌ Growing Aftermarket: Parts support isn’t as vast as the old Model 37s yet. If you want to heavily customize from day one, see our tactical shotgun section for more modular options.
- ❌ Single Gauge: Currently 12ga only. For a dedicated youth or smaller-framed shooter, a 20ga might be better. Browse other gauges here.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the New Ithaca Field Grade
Buy it if: You’re a hunter needing a reliable, no-nonsense shotgun for ducks, geese, or turkey. You’re a recreational shooter who wants a classic-styled pump for clays or plinking. You’re a parent looking for a sturdy, safe first shotgun to teach a responsible young adult. You appreciate American manufacturing and the Ithaca legacy.
Skip it if: You need a dedicated home-defense shotgun with a short barrel and light mount (we have better options for that). You demand a heirloom-grade, glossy finish for display. You’re a competitive shooter who needs every ergonomic and weight advantage (check out our competition firearms). Your primary focus is the lightest possible weight for long hikes.
Common Questions & Concerns
“Is the action stiff?” It’s firm when new, as any quality pump should be. A hundred cycles while watching TV will work it in perfectly. I recommend this to all my customers.
“Can it handle steel shot for waterfowl?” Yes, with its 3″ chambers and modern steel barrel, it is perfectly safe for use with steel shot.
“What’s the difference between this and the older Ithaca 37s?” This New Field Grade uses modern manufacturing (CNC) for consistency and incorporates a manual cross-bolt safety, unlike the older top-tang safeties. It carries the spirit and bottom-ejection design of the original.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “field grade” mean?
In firearms, “field grade” typically denotes a functional, durable finish designed for hard use in hunting and outdoor conditions. It prioritizes reliability and value over a high-polish, presentation-grade finish. Think of it as a work truck versus a show car.
Is Ithaca a good gun brand?
Absolutely. Ithaca has been making shotguns in the United States since the 1880s. Their Model 37 is legendary for its reliability and distinctive bottom-ejection design. The new Field Grade continues that heritage with modern manufacturing techniques.
What is the barrel length and choke?
This model features a 28-inch vent rib barrel. It comes with a modified choke tube installed, which is a great all-purpose choice for hunting and clays. Additional choke tubes are available from Ithaca.
Is it suitable for a beginner?
Yes, with proper instruction. Its classic layout teaches fundamental shotgun handling. The manual safety is positive and easy to understand. I always recommend professional training or guided practice with an experienced shooter for any new firearm owner.
Does it have a warranty?
Yes, the New Ithaca Field Grade is backed by the manufacturer’s warranty. We at Californiagunshop also stand behind the sale and can assist with the warranty process if ever needed.
Where can I buy a New Ithaca Field Grade online?
You can purchase the New Ithaca Field Grade right here at Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com). We are an authorized retailer, and your purchase ships directly from our facility in San Antonio, Texas.
What is the capacity?
As a traditional hunting shotgun, it has a plug installed to limit the magazine capacity to 2 shells, plus 1 in the chamber, for a total of 3 rounds to comply with federal migratory bird hunting regulations. The plug can be removed for other uses where legal.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging for your privacy
✅ 30-day returns on unfired items
✅ Secure checkout with multiple payment options
Ready to own a modern classic? The New Ithaca Field Grade represents a return to sensible, American-made value in the shotgun world. It’s the gun you grab when the job calls for dependability, not decoration. From my bench in San Antonio, I can tell you this is a solid foundation for years of shooting.
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About this review: This assessment is based on my hands-on inspection of the firearm, technical specifications, and 15 years of professional experience fitting guns to shooters. My goal is to give you the clear, practical details you need to make an informed choice. As with any firearm, always follow safe handling procedures and comply with all local, state, and federal laws.
Last updated: March 2026
Katie M. (verified owner) –
Been in the market for a while and finally decided to buy from Californiagunshop. I was comparing this against similar products from eBay and decided to take the chance. Glad I did. Arrived in 3 days, well-packaged, and the quality speaks for itself. Installed it on my Glock 26 and ran 239 rounds through it without a single hiccup. This is the real deal.
Megan B. (verified owner) –
Decent product for the price. Not the absolute best quality I’ve seen but it works well on my Glock 45. Would buy again if the price stays where it is.
Dave M. (verified owner) –
Bought this as part of a larger build project. Californiagunshop had the best price by a decent margin and shipping was fast. The New Ithaca Field Grade itself is well-made — Clean finish. Overall this is exactly what I needed. Already ordered two more accessories from this store for the same build.
Justin C. (verified owner) –
Bought this as part of a larger build project. Californiagunshop had the best price by a decent margin and shipping was fast. The New Ithaca Field Grade itself is well-made — Good lockup. Overall this is exactly what I needed. Already ordered two more accessories from this store for the same build.
Brittany S. (verified owner) –
Installed it on my Glock 19 the same day it arrived. Good lockup. Couldn’t be happier with this purchase.