Make: Hayashi

Model: Type 38 Training Rifle

Serial Number: 722

Year of Manufacture: 1930s–1940s, C&R

Caliber: 8mm Blank (Training Cartridge)

Action Type: Bolt Action, Fed by Internal Magazine

Barrel Length: 32”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into a post. The rear sight is an adjustable elevator sight.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two-piece hardwood configuration with a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, grooved forend, and steel buttplate. The wood shows typical handling marks throughout including small scratches and impact marks, common in service use rifles. There are no cracks or chips. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dark, the rifling is smooth as standard in training rifles. There is no visible erosion in the bore but there is some stubborn fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operational wear with minor surface oxidation and freckling along the barrel and receiver. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. The markings are legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to Fine condition.

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 Hayashi Type 38 Training Rifle is a historically significant piece, crafted to emulate the Japanese Arisaka Type 38 service rifle for pre-WWII and wartime military instruction. Training rifles like this one were constructed using cost-saving methods and inferior materials to create a non-functional substitute for real firearms. They were only intended for blank or reduced-charge ammunition, never for live fire.

Despite their limitations, these rifles served an essential role in preparing Japanese troops for basic handling and operation of military arms. Their simplified construction, often with smoothbore barrels and minimal machining, make them a unique category of collectible with direct ties to Japan's wartime military buildup.

With its original blued finish, intact markings, and correct training rifle configuration, this example offers collectors a rare opportunity to own a piece of Japanese militaria. Its clean condition and functioning action make it an especially appealing find for enthusiasts of WWII history or educators looking to display authentic training tools of the era.