Seeking input on Ithaca 51

[Ruger300WinMag]

I'm looking to add a 20 gauge semi to my wardrobe. Anyone have good or bad experiences with an Ithaca model 51? I've got a line on a used one in decent condition for $300.

Preference is for Remington or other brand I know better, but am willing to take on a another with reasonable chance of getting good one.

Thanks in advance,

Dave

 

[SuperCub]

A friend of mine got one for free. He used to hunt ducks with it. What a pc of junk it was! Total jamming garbage ...... thus the "free" price tag.

He sold it cheeeep and bought my 870 and never looked back. I bought another 870 to replace the one I sold him.



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[Ruger300WinMag]

Thanks, much appreciated. Found and purchased a Winchester 1300 instead of a semi because it became available and the price seemed reasonable.

 

[vicv]

not sure how many semi models ithica made but my friend recently bought one at the last gun show and it's probably the best shotgun i've ever fired. totally reliable, soaks up almost all recoil, and beautiful wood and receiver finish for a 30 or so year old gun. it even feeds and ejects winchester ammo which is garbage and even my 500 gets sticky with it and that thing will eat anything

 

[struff55]

They marketed two auto loaders model 51 and model 900 made by SKB in japan both are of marginal quality they had a tendency to crack breech bolts they had other problems as well if you have one that works that's fine if you can buy one for a $200. its alright if something breaks don't bother looking for parts .

 

[vicv]

this one was made in dunnville ontario. got a nice polished receiver with what looks like a pheasant taking flight in a field etched into it. gold trigger. the works. no $200 dollar gun. like i said not sure the model number