Nagoya Armory Type 14 Nambu Pistol in 8mm Nambu 4.5” Barrel C&R 1943

SOLD FOR: $825

WOA#: WY240224CC071

Make: Nambu, Nagoya Armory, Japan

Model: Type 14

Serial#: 69218

Year of Manufacture: March 1943

Caliber: 8mm Nambu

Action Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol, fed by detachable magazines.

Markings: The right side of the frame is marked with the serial along with Nagoya armory proofmarks, The date is marked “18 / 3” which translates to march 1943. The left side of the receiver is marked in Japanese kanji, “Hi” (Fire) and “Ann” (Safe) followed by “????” Which translates to Type 14 (Juyon Nen Shiki) The mag is marked “218” with a proofmark. The trigger is marked “18”

Barrel Length: 4.5”

Sights/ Optics: This pistol has a dovetailed delta front sight post with a dovetail-notch rear sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The two piece grips are serrated wood.  There are no cracks or chips. There are some minor pressure dents in the wood. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 8 Round Factory Magazine in Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued 

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is very bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition:  The pistol retains about 95% of its refinished metal finish.The entire gun has some minor scratches and thinning of bluing on the leading edges. The markings are clear and painted white. The screwheads are mostly sharp and serviceable. Overall, this pistol is in Excellent condition for a C&R.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. This pistol has a magazine disconnect and left side safety.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: 1 Magazine, replacement firing pin and springs.

Our Assessment:  The Type 14 Nambu pistol stands as a testament to the innovative design work of Kijiro Nambu and the manufacturing prowess of the Tokyo Arsenal. Introduced in 1925, this semi-automatic pistol quickly became the standard-issue sidearm for the Imperial Japanese Army. Its unique features, including a distinctive grip safety and butterfly-style manual safety, set it apart from contemporary handguns of its time. Chambered in the proprietary 8mm Nambu cartridge, the Type 14 boasted a seven-round detachable box magazine and a recoil-operated, locked-breech design.

Throughout World War II, the Type 14 Nambu served alongside Japanese soldiers, officers, and other personnel. While its design showcased some innovative elements, such as a quick takedown mechanism and a low bore axis for reduced recoil, it also faced criticisms for certain shortcomings, including the lack of a slide stop and non-adjustable rear sight. Despite these drawbacks, the Type 14 Nambu played a significant role in the Japanese military’s arsenal during the war.

Today, the Type 14 Nambu pistol holds a special place in firearms history and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Its association with the Imperial Japanese Army and its distinctive design make it a prized addition to any collection of World War II-era firearms. Original, well-preserved examples of the Type 14 Nambu are relatively rare, with collectors willing to pay a premium for these pieces of history. Despite its limited production and eventual obsolescence, the Type 14 Nambu pistol remains a fascinating and enduring symbol of Japanese military heritage and technological innovation. -R.E