The Type 99 Japanese Arisaka rifle is a fascinating piece of history, and in this blog post, we’ll delve into five interesting facts about this iconic firearm.
The Origins of the Type 99 Arisaka
The Type 99 Arisaka was designed in the late 1930s by the Japanese military, specifically for use by the Imperial Japanese Army. The rifle was an improvement over the earlier Type 38 Arisaka, with a more powerful cartridge and a stronger action. The name “Arisaka” comes from the Japanese word for “Stormy or Wild Southeast”, which was a reference to the location of the Tokyo Arsenal where the rifle was designed.
A Larger Cartridge
One of the key features of the Type 99 Arisaka was its use of a larger cartridge than the earlier Type 38. The new cartridge, designated as the 7.7x58mm Arisaka, was more powerful and had a longer effective range. This made the Type 99 a more effective rifle for engaging targets at longer distances. The larger cartridge also meant that the rifle had a more pronounced recoil, which could make it more difficult to control.
Chrysanthemum Marks and "Mum's the Word"
Type 99 Arisaka rifles that were manufactured for the Japanese military had a distinctive marking on the receiver, featuring a chrysanthemum symbol. This symbol was the crest of the Japanese royal family, and its presence on the rifle indicated that it was a military-issue firearm. When the Allies began to capture Japanese rifles during World War II, they discovered that the chrysanthemum marks had been ground off of many of the rifles. This was done in an effort to disguise the rifles as civilian or police-issue firearms, in an attempt to circumvent the restrictions of the Treaty of Versailles.
The Last Ditch Efforts of the Japanese Military
As the Allies closed in on Japan in the final stages of World War II, the Japanese military became increasingly desperate. In an effort to conserve resources and produce as many rifles as possible, the Type 99 Arisaka was simplified and modified to make it easier to manufacture. These late-war rifles, often referred to as “Last Ditch” rifles, featured a number of cost-cutting measures, such as the elimination of the dust cover and the use of lower-quality materials. Despite their reputation for being of poor quality, many of these late-war rifles are still highly collectible today.
Captured Rifles and the Post-War Era
After Japan’s surrender in 1945, many Type 99 Arisaka rifles were captured by the Allies and brought back to the United States as war trophies. These rifles quickly gained popularity among collectors and shooters, who prized them for their historical significance and durability. In the post-war era, many Type 99 rifles were also sold as surplus firearms, and they remain popular among collectors and shooters to this day.
👉 Note: Many Type 99 Arisaka rifles that were brought back to the United States as war trophies were modified or altered in some way, often to make them more suitable for sporting use. These modifications can affect the value and collectibility of the rifle.
Collectibility and Value
Today, the Type 99 Arisaka is a highly collectible rifle, with prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the condition and rarity of the firearm. Collectors prize the rifle for its historical significance, durability, and aesthetic appeal. In particular, early-production rifles with the chrysanthemum marks are highly sought after by collectors, as are late-war “Last Ditch” rifles.
In summary, the Type 99 Japanese Arisaka is a fascinating piece of history, with a rich and complex story that spans multiple continents and decades. Whether you’re a collector, shooter, or simply a history buff, the Type 99 Arisaka is a rifle that is sure to capture your imagination.
Here is a table summarizing the key features of the Type 99 Arisaka:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 7.7x58mm Arisaka |
| Barrel Length | 26 inches (660mm) |
| Weight | 8.2 pounds (3.7kg) |
| Length | 44.5 inches (1130mm) |
| Production Dates | 1939-1945 |
What is the difference between the Type 99 Arisaka and the Type 38 Arisaka?
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The main difference between the Type 99 Arisaka and the Type 38 Arisaka is the cartridge they used. The Type 38 used a 6.5x50mmSR cartridge, while the Type 99 used a 7.7x58mm cartridge. The Type 99 also had a stronger action and a more robust design.
Are Type 99 Arisaka rifles still used by collectors and shooters today?
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Yes, many collectors and shooters still use and collect Type 99 Arisaka rifles today. They are prized for their historical significance, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
How can I identify a “Last Ditch” Type 99 Arisaka rifle?
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“Last Ditch” Type 99 Arisaka rifles are characterized by a number of cost-cutting measures, such as the elimination of the dust cover and the use of lower-quality materials. They also often feature a rougher finish and less attention to detail.
