Imperial Japanese WWII SOLD OUT OF SERVICE FULL MUM Type 38 Arisaka Carbine
SOLD FOR: $813.00
WOA#: WY240516CE007
Make: Kokura Arsenal
Model: Type 38
Serial Number: 39788
Year of Manufacture: ca. 1933-1940
Caliber: 6.5 Japanese
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked with “39788″ and the Kokura Arsenal mark. The top of the receiver is marked with a very unique “Full Mum” (an undamaged Imperial Chrysanthemum), and the markings “38 Type” in Japanese. The mum carries the Kokura Arsenal symbol struck directly into the middle; this was done to indicate the carbine was “sold out of service”, and was no longer a possession of the Imperial military (or Emperor). These pieces were then usually supplied to Japanese universities or military schools where they were used as full power, fully functional training rifles. The top of the bolt stop lever is marked “39788”. The bolt handle and extractor are marked “501”.
Barrel Length: 18.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an inverted V post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is a sliding v-notch blade attached to a flip up sight ladder assembly.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece wood stock has a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, nose cap with bayonet lug, hole for the included cleaning rod, barrel band, two sling loops on the left side, and a metal butt plate. The stock has an original lacquer finish, giving it a striking, pleasing orange color. The finish shows age. There are light compression marks, scratches, and scuffs throughout the wood (please see the photos). The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the steel butt plate. The butt plate shows light scratching and patina. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark with sharp rifling near the muzzle that gets deeper closer to the breech. There is little erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There are scuffs and scratches throughout the metal surfaces. There is pitting in the finish on the butt plate. The screw heads show moderate to heavy use. It’s missing the dust cover, as is common on these Type 38 carbines. Some believe the dust covers were discarded in the field, as they had a tendency to rattle. The markings, including the unique full mum, are legible. Overall, this carbine rates in about Very Good condition as original for C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this carbine. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The carbine comes with a post-war though vintage home made OD canvas sling.
Our Assessment: Japanese aggression in China began in the early 1930s with the seizure of Manchuria after the contrived Mukden Incident. China’s vast natural resources and convenient geographic location made it an ideal target for Imperial Japan. Devoid of roads and plagued by bandits and guerrillas, Japanese Cavalry were the only troops capable of patrolling Manchuria’s remote, desolate terrain. IJA cavalrymen were issued the classic Type 38 Cavalry Carbine chambered in 6.5x50mm Arisaka. This carbine undoubtedly led an interesting life; at some point during WW2, it was “sold out of service”, and likely supplied to a Japanese university or military school as a full power, fully functional training rifle. This is evidenced by the Kokura Arsenal mark struck directly into the “Full Mum” at the top of the receiver. Please see our photos and enjoy the auction. Good luck on your bid. -K.F.
