Need an IJ History Lesson

Need some help from an IJ guru on the history of the IJ single models, .410 in particular. What were the various model names and prodution runs? And how different were they in regards to parts throughout their production history? Have an old one from the 30's (or before) that I'm planning on rechambering to 3" along with some other repairs in order for it to spend a little more time in the squirrel woods. It's about to re-enter service with the third generation in my family!  AW

CB,

Yes, Iver Johnson. The manufacturer of bicycles, "owl head" revolvers, and shotguns. AW

CB,

Thanks. That's a signifcant production run to be sure. Didn't realize that they made a rifle on this same frame/pattern. One in .45 LC or having a spare barrel would be slick.

 Mine is without auto ejector, and if the low serial number on the frame is an indicator, it is pretty early in the production. First decade at least. Barrel number doesn't match the frame number, so I'm guessing it's a "put together" from two or more guns. I'd bet my Grandfather didn't give much for it when he bought it for my Dad sometime in the late 20's or more likely, the early 30's.

My dad told of many game filled days with this little gun; mostly rabbit and squirrel, but there were quail and even and some ducks too. He was convinced that #4 shot was "it" for everything. He said that even the #6 loads lacked power for tough reds at the top of the big trees. Years later, I discovered that even in a 12 ga, #6 shot was an absolute minimum size for those old reds if you wanted reliable penetration.

 I think the little "Ivory Johnson" as my Dad called it, deserves to go to the woods from time to time as long as there is a family member left to carry it. After I get it resurrected it should be good for several more years of service in the squirrel woods; and more importantly, a tangible link for my kids to their Great Grandfather who first brought it home as a first "kids" shotgun.AW