Make: Arisaka

Model: Type 38 Training Rifle

Serial Number: 36926

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1920s–1940s, C&R

Caliber: Designed for blank paper cartridges

Action Type: Bolt Action, Fed by Internal Magazine

Barrel Length: 27”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is an adjustable ladder sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two-piece wood configuration featuring a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, and grooved forend. There are typical signs of use including scattered light scratches, compression marks, and small chips throughout. There are no cracks present. The stock rates in about Good overall condition.

MType of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dark, the rifling is absent as expected for a smoothbore training rifle. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its original blued finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational and handling wear consistent with its use as a non-firing training aid. The screw heads are lightly tooled with serviceable slots. The pins are unmarred. The markings are shallow but legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition for a Japanese training rifle.

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: This Arisaka Type 38 Training Rifle is a relic of early 20th-century Japanese military instruction, produced for use by school cadets and military trainees. These rifles were not chambered for live ammunition but instead blank paper cartridges, enabling safe handling and manipulation without risk.

The rifle mimics the dimensions and weight of its combat counterpart, the Arisaka Type 38 service rifle, allowing soldiers to practice realistic drills. The presence of a smooth bore, soft steel components, and unique training markings makes these rifles easy to identify and collect.

Collectors of Japanese militaria will appreciate this rifle’s originality and strong remaining finish. It would make a fine addition to any WWII or pre-war training collection, especially for those focused on Japanese arms and training doctrine.