Make: Nagoya Arsenal, Japan

Model: Type 2 Arisaka “Paratrooper”. Takedown Type 99 Arisaka

Serial Number: 9340

Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1942 - 44

Caliber: 7.7x58mm (7.7 Jap)

Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle Fed By Internal Magazine

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked, “127 / 9340” with the Nagoya arsenal mark. The top of the receiver has a ground off chrysanthemum followed by “2nd Type” in Japanese. The receiver, receiver extension, and barrel end cap, are matched, “127”. All other parts are marked, “340”. There are various station marks and proofs throughout.

Barrel Length: 25 1/2"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an inverted V post set between two protective ears. The rear sight ladder has a fixed aperture when down and a sliding aperture when flipped up. The sides fold out to be used as anti-aircraft sights. There are inverted V notches on each side of the AA sights.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The three piece stock has a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, nose cap with bayonet lug, hole for the included cleaning rod, barrel band with sling loop, sling loop on the left of the butt with a finger groove above it, and a metal buttplate. The stock retains its signature split. The buttplate and stock hardware show scrapes and light surface erosion. There is a metal joining mechanism below the front of the receiver and the barrel shank. It wraps around the stock and has a “D” ring takedown knob on the right side. The stock shows moderate wear from handling and storage. The wood shows scattered scrapes, compression marks, scuffs and scratches. The wood is chipped in several spots and shows a few deeper scrapes. The LOP measures 12 ¾” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. This stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Arsenal Refurbished

Bore Condition: The chrome bore is semi-bright and the rifling is defined. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout with most concentrated on the bolt. The action has light wear. The screw heads are sharp, most show light to moderate tool marks. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as refurbished.

Mechanics: The action functions Correctly. The two halves of the barrel fit together snugly with no movement. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary for your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This Japanese Arisaka Type 2 Paratrooper rifle is a rare and highly collectible World War II takedown version of the Type 99, purpose-built for Japan’s airborne troops. Manufactured at the Nagoya Arsenal, the rifle was designed to be disassembled into two major components for ease of transport during paratrooper drops. This example bears matching numbers on its major assembly groupings and still features its unique D-ring takedown mechanism, evidence of a well-preserved and functional example. The ground chrysanthemum on the receiver is typical of surrendered rifles, yet the “2nd Type” kanji remains visible—further confirming its origin and use. This rifle retains approximately 95% of its metal finish and rates in about Very Good overall condition. The chrome-lined bore is semi-bright with well-defined rifling and no erosion, earning it a strong 9/10 rating. The stock is in solid shape for a combat-issued paratrooper rifle, displaying moderate wear from service use, along with scuffs, dings, and a few chips. The stock retains its characteristic split and original hardware, including the anti-aircraft rear sight and cleaning rod. The metal hardware shows some scrapes and light surface erosion, consistent with wartime use and storage, but nothing that detracts from its structural integrity or function.

For collectors of WWII small arms or Japanese military rifles, the Type 2 Paratrooper represents a significant and increasingly scarce opportunity. With its takedown system, matching components, and intact anti-aircraft sights, this rifle captures both the ingenuity and desperation of late-war Japanese military production. Its functionality, excellent bore, and arsenal-refurbished condition make it suitable for both historical display and careful range use. This Arisaka is a must-have centerpiece for any collector interested in the unique and rare weapons of the Pacific Theater.