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Quick Look
The Ithaca Gun Company M37 Defender is a pump-action shotgun with roots dating back to the 1930s. Its design emphasizes rugged simplicity and reliability for defense and law enforcement. Today, the M37 remains respected for its durability and classic profile in the tactical shotgun market.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Proven pump-action reliability for consistent cycling
- Simple design eases maintenance and field stripping
- Compact size suits home defense and tactical roles
- Robust steel construction withstands heavy use
- Affordable price compared to newer tactical shotguns
Key Variants
M37 Defender
Compact 12-gauge variant tailored for home defense and law enforcement personnel seeking reliability.
M37 Tactical
Features extended barrel and synthetic stock, ideal for tactical training and duty use.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | M37 Defender | Mossberg 593 | Remington 870 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $600-$700 | $500-$700 | $500-$700 |
| Capacity/Size | 5+1 rounds, 18.5\" barrel | 5+1 rounds, 18.5\" barrel | 4+1 to 6+1 rounds, 18.5\" barrel |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs | 6.8 lbs | 7 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | No | Some models |
| Trigger Type | Pump-action | Pump-action | Pump-action |
| Notable Pro | Durable steel frame, simple design | Lightweight, flexible configurations | Widely used, proven reliability |
| Notable Con | Heavier than some competitors | Less durable steel parts | Less compact than some models |
Best Use Cases
- Home defense with reliable pump action
- Law enforcement and tactical duty shotgun
- Range training and familiarization
- Shotgun collecting with a classic model
- Versatile field utility shotgun
FAQs
Can I use standard 2.75\" shells in the M37 Defender?
Yes, the M37 Defender chambers standard 12-gauge 2.75-inch shells compatible with most ammunition brands.
What barrel length does the M37 Defender have?
The typical M37 Defender features an 18.5-inch barrel, balancing compactness and effective range for defense purposes.
How does the Ithaca M37 compare to a Remington 870?
Both are classic pump-action shotguns; the M37 is slightly heavier but praised for rugged steel construction versus the 870’s versatile configurations.
