Refurbished Kokura Arisaka Type 44 Carbine in 6.5 Jap 20” Barrel C&R
SOLD FOR: $910
WOA# WY240223WT002
Make: Arisaka
Model: 44
Serial Number: 24468
Year of Manufacture: 1911-1942
Caliber: 6.5 Jap
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle with Internal magazine.
Markings: This rifle is marked, “24468” with the Kokura Arsenal marking on the left side, The top of the barrel extension is marked, “44 Type” In Japanese with an intact royal chrysanthemum. The forend cap is marked, “(A)292” The A is in Hiragana.
Barrel Length: 20”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a protected chevron, the rear sight is a flip up tangent V-notch sight marked out to 2000m.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a two piece smooth wood stock set with finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb with a steel buttplate. There are heavy scuffs and pressure dents on the stocks. There are no cracks but there are some chips. The forend has an attached bayonet lug and stacking hook. The LOP from the front of the trigger to the back of the stock is 13.5” The stock rates in about Good overall condition for a C&R.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is black and the rifling is strong. There is moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is some light bluing wear in places, the action is lightly worn. There is some surface rust on the bottom metal. The markings are clear. The screwheads are lightly used. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Type 44 Arisaka rifle, also known as the “Cavalry Rifle,” is a Japanese bolt-action rifle that was introduced in 1911. It was designed to be used by cavalry units and other mounted troops in the Imperial Japanese Army. Chambered in the 6.5x50mm Arisaka cartridge, it provided Japanese cavalry soldiers with a reliable and relatively lightweight firearm for use on horseback.
One of the notable features of the Type 44 is its folding bayonet, which is attached to the underside of the barrel and folds neatly alongside it when not in use. This unique design allowed for a compact and streamlined rifle, making it easier to handle while mounted on horseback. The bayonet could be quickly deployed for use in close combat situations.
The Type 44 Arisaka rifle features a five-round internal magazine and a bolt-action mechanism. It has a relatively smooth bolt operation and is known for its robust construction, which allowed it to withstand the rigors of military service. The rifle typically includes a wooden stock and handguard, with metal components finished in a blued or parkerized coating.
During World War II, the Type 44 saw widespread use by Japanese cavalry units in various theaters of the conflict, including in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. It was praised for its reliability and effectiveness in combat, particularly in situations where cavalry troops needed a versatile firearm that could be used both at range and in close quarters.
Today, the Type 44 Arisaka is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to its historical significance and unique features, such as the folding bayonet. While many rifles were captured or destroyed during the war, surviving examples are prized for their rarity and connection to a pivotal period in Japanese military history.
