The is a family of Japanese bolt-action military rifles used from the late 19th century through the end of World War II. Renowned for having some of the strongest actions among bolt-action service rifles, they were the primary infantry weapons of the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA). Core Specifications & Variants
The design was led by and influenced by the German Mauser pattern. Type 38 (Standard) Type 99 (Short Rifle) Years Produced 1905–1945 1939–1945 Total Production ~3.4 million ~3.5 million Cartridge 6.5×50mmSR Arisaka 7.7×58mm Arisaka Action Bolt-action, 5-round internal magazine Bolt-action, 5-round internal magazine Unique Features Long barrel for accuracy; dust cover Chrome-lined bore; folding "anti-aircraft" sights Key Design Characteristics Arisaka
: Most authentic rifles featured an Imperial Chrysanthemum (the "Mum") on the receiver, though many were ground off upon surrender at the end of WWII. The is a family of Japanese bolt-action military
: Post-war testing proved Arisaka receivers were significantly stronger than contemporary rifles like the American M1903 Springfield or German Mauser. Type 38 (Standard) Type 99 (Short Rifle) Years
: Unlike the "lands and grooves" of Western rifles, Arisakas used polygonal rifling to reduce barrel wear. Modern Ownership & Collector Info
: Designed to protect the action from dirt and mud in tropical environments, though soldiers often discarded them because they were noisy.