Make: Nagoya Arsenal

Model: Type 99 Arisaka

Serial Number: 56220

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1939–1945, C&R

Caliber: 7.7x58mm (JAP)

Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine

Barrel Length: 26”

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 stock shows expected light handling marks and compressions consistent with service use but no cracks or major damage. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. 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 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows mild operational and handling wear. The screw heads are lightly tooled with serviceable slots. The pins are unmarred. The markings are, but the chrysanthemum ground off. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good 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: Chamber Shroud.

Our Assessment: The Arisaka Type 99 was Japan’s primary battle rifle during the latter part of World War II. Chambered in the powerful 7.7x58mm cartridge, it was built for durability and battlefield reliability. This example, made by the Nagoya Arsenal between 1939 and 1945, features several design traits unique to Japanese wartime production, such as the two-piece stock and anti-aircraft rear sight.

This rifle retains much of its original blued finish and exhibits only minor handling wear, indicative of careful postwar preservation or light service. The bore is in exceptional shape, a rarity among Type 99 rifles, which are often found with dark or worn bores due to corrosive ammunition use.

Whether you’re a military collector looking to expand a WWII collection or a historical firearms enthusiast interested in Imperial Japanese arms, this Type 99 presents a strong opportunity. With solid mechanics, a sharp bore, and honest originality, it’s a well-preserved piece of Pacific War history.