Hubbry Logo
Type 38 rifleType 38 rifleMain
Open search
Type 38 rifle
Community hub
Type 38 rifle
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Type 38 rifle
Type 38 rifle
Type 38 rifle
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

The Type 38 rifle (三八式歩兵銃, sanhachi-shiki hoheijū) is a bolt-action service rifle that was used by the Empire of Japan predominantly during the Second Sino-Japanese War and Second World War.[10] The design was adopted by the Imperial Japanese Army in 1905 (the 38th year of the Meiji period, hence "Type 38"). Due to a perceived lack of power in its 6.5×50mmSR Arisaka cartridge, it was partially replaced during the war with the 7.7 Type 99 rifle, but both rifles saw usage until the end of the war.[11]

Key Information

History and development

[edit]

The Imperial Japanese Army introduced the Type 30 rifle in 1897. However, the weapon had numerous shortcomings, which were highlighted by combat experience in the early stages of the Russo-Japanese War. These included bursting cartridges, a poorly designed lock in which excess gunpowder tended to accumulate, burning the face of the shooter, frequent misfires, jamming, difficulty in cleaning, and cartridge extraction. Major Kijiro Nambu undertook a redesign of the Type 30, which was introduced in 1906. Nambu reduced the number of parts making up the Type 30's bolt from nine to six and at that same time simplified manufacture and disassembly of the bolt without the need for tools.[12] A dust cover was added because of experiences in the Russo-Japanese War that left rifles inoperable from dust.[13] The weapon was produced in several locations:

  • Tokyo Arsenal from 1906 to 1932; 2,029,000 units (est.)[3]
  • Kokura Arsenal from 1937 to 1941: 495,500 units (est.)[3]
  • Nagoya Arsenal from 1932 to 1942: 312,500 units (est.)[3]
  • Jinsen (in what is now Incheon) arsenal during 1942: 13,400 units (est.)[3]
  • Hoten (was called Mukden Arsenal before the Japanese took it over.[14] In what is now Shenyang) arsenal from 1937 to 1944: 148,800 units (est.)[3]

In 1939, the Type 38 rifle manufactured by these arsenals cost 75.9 yen per unit.[15] By 1940 more than three million Type 38s had been issued to the Imperial Japanese Army. However, a concern that the 6.5×50mmSR Arisaka cartridge did not compare favorably to the ammunition used by the other great powers in the war led to the introduction of a further generation of rifles in 1939, during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Designated the Type 99 rifle, this new rifle used the more powerful 7.7×58mm Arisaka cartridge already in use with the Type 92 heavy machine gun and the Type 97 light machine gun. However, not all units received the new weapon, and the mixture of types with incompatible cartridges led to considerable logistics issues during World War II.[citation needed]

Variants

[edit]

The Type 38 rifle used the 6.5×50mm Arisaka cartridge. This cartridge produces little recoil when fired. However, while on par with the Norwegian and Italian 6.5 mm military cartridges of the time, the 6.5×50mm was not as powerful as several others in use by other nations. The Type 38 at 128 cm (50.4 in) was the longest rifle of the war, due to the emphasis on bayonet training for the Japanese soldier of the era, whose average height was 160 centimeters (5 ft 3 in).[16] The rifle was even longer when the 40 cm (15.75 inches) Type 30 bayonet was fixed. The Type 38 was fairly heavy, at about 4.25 kg.

Post-war inspection of the Type 38 by the U.S. military and the National Rifle Association of America found that the Type 38's receiver was the strongest bolt action of any nation's[17] and capable of handling more powerful cartridges.

Nomenclature note: In the West, Japanese equipment is commonly referred to as "Type XX", rather than "Model XX". In the case of a firearm, "model" is a more accurate interpretation of the SHIKI (式) character, but the word "type" has become well-established by collectors for decades.

Type 38 short rifle

[edit]

In the late 1930s to the early 1940s, an unknown number of Type 38 rifles were converted into short rifles at Nagoya Arsenal, that did all rebuilds of Type 38 and Type 44 rifles and carbines.[18] The barrels were shortened to 635 mm (25.0 in) from the standard 794 mm (31.3 in) barrel and the stock shortened to match the barrel while the handguard retained its original length.[19] The result is a Type 38 which is similar in size to the Arisaka Type 99 short rifle. There is no consistency to serial numbers or arsenal marks as the rifles were converted from existing stock. Although total production is unknown, it is estimated that approximately 100,000 were converted.[20]

Type 38 carbine

[edit]

Intended for use by cavalry, engineers, and other roles where a full sized rifle would be a hindrance, the Type 38 carbine was introduced into service at the same time as the standard Type 38. Its barrel was 487 millimeters (19.2 in), overall length 966 millimeters (38.0 in), and weight 3.3 kilograms (7.3 lb). The carbine lacked a bayonet and the cost in 1939 was 67.9 yen per unit.[21] It was produced in a number of locations:

  • Tokyo Arsenal from 1906 to 1931; 209,500 units (est.)[4]
  • Kokura arsenal from 1938 to 1941: 51,500 units (est.)[4]
  • Nagoya arsenal from 1935 to 1942: 206,500 units (est.)[4]
  • Hoten/Mukden arsenal from 1937 to 1944: 52,300 units (est.)[4]

Type 44 carbine

[edit]

Similar to the Type 38 carbine from the middle band back. The Type 44 cavalry carbine is almost entirely different from the middle band forward with an under-folding bayonet, metal nosecap, stacking hook to the left side of the nosecap and wide front sight guards. This model was introduced in 1911. There are three variations of this rifle. Each variation based entirely on the nosecap size and the spacing of the nosecap screws. They have a unique storage compartment in the buttstock for a cleaning rod. These additional features increased the cost of the carbine to 86.2 yen per unit by 1939.[15] It was produced in three arsenals:

  • Tokyo Arsenal from 1912 to 1932; 56,900 units (est.)[22]
  • Kokura arsenal from 1935 to 1941: 21,800 units (est.)[22]
  • Nagoya arsenal from 1935 to 1942: 14,300 units (est.)[22]

Type 97 sniper rifle

[edit]

As with the standard Type 38, but with a rifle scope with 2.5x magnification, the Type 97 was introduced in 1937. The scope was offset to allow loading by stripper clip and bolt handle slightly bent down. Some 22,500 were produced.[23]

Chinese six/five infantry rifle

[edit]

Chinese copy of the Japanese Type 38 at the Taiyuan Arsenal in the very late 1920s to early 1930s for the warlord of Shanxi province, General Yan Xishan. The receiver is marked "six-five rifle" (六五步槍). Estimated to have been 108,000 made.[24]

Type 918 rifle

[edit]

These copies of the Type 38 rifles are believed to have been manufactured at the South Manchuria Army Arsenal (also known as the 918 Arsenal), but very little is known about them. Chinese sources state that these rifles were made in China for Japan, but for whom it is not known. It does not bear the Japanese Imperial Chrysanthemum, but instead has a heart symbol and under it written "918 Type" (九一八式). It is also not known if these were made before or right after the surrender of Japanese forces. It has an under-folding bayonet similar to the Japanese Type 44. The 918 stamped on top of the receivers stands for the date of September 18, 1931; the date of the Mukden Incident.[25]

North China Type 19 carbine

[edit]

A relatively crude mix of the Type 38 and Type 99 that is believed to have been made mostly in the Chinese city of Tientsin and may have been intended for puppet troops. The Type 19 is in 6.5 Japanese, unlike its predecessor, the North China Type 30 carbine copy which is in 8mm Mauser. Like the North China Type 30, it has a cherry blossom on the breech instead of the Japanese Imperial Chrysanthemum, and is marked with "North China Type 19" (北支一九式) above the cherry blossom unlike the North China Type 30. The 19 may mean the 19th year of Showa Era or 1944. The true military designation is unknown. Approximately 43,000 carbines are thought to have been produced.[26]

Siamese Type 66 long rifle

[edit]

Siam (Thailand) ordered 50,000 Type 38 rifles in 1924 from the Tokyo Army Arsenal chambered in their Type 66 8x52mmR cartridge. The receiver is marked with the Siamese Charkra with "Type 66" (แบบ ๖๖) written under it. Not only was the caliber changed, but the sights, bayonet and cleaning rod are different than the Japanese version. Almost all parts, including screws cannot be interchanged with the Japanese Type 38.[27]

Thai Type 83 rifle

[edit]

Unlike the Siamese Type 66 (แบบ ๖๖), this rifle is a standard Japanese Type 38 in 6.5x50mmSR that was sent as aid from Japan to Thailand in 1940. These were taken straight from assembly lines at Nagoya and Kokura arsenals, after the Japanese Imperial Chrysanthemum was canceled out by zeros along the petals. In Thailand they called it the Type 83 (แบบ ๘๓). These rifles were issued to second-line troops to free up rifles in their main caliber from front line duties for the Franco-Thai War.[28] Later in the 1950s, some of these rifles had their barrels and stocks cut down to short rifle length with many of those being rechambered for .30-06 Type 88 cartridge and becoming Type Type 83/88s (แบบ ๘๓/๘๘).[29] Very few of these rifles were imported into the United States because of the Gun Control Act of 1968 restricting former military arms from entering the country.[30]

Thai Type 91 police carbine

[edit]

Made after World War II, these carbines were made in Thailand at the Royal Thai Arsenals in Bangkok from Type 38 parts for a handy carbine for police. The stock and barrel was cut down. The stocks were cut out like a M1 carbine stock and used M1 carbine slings and oilers. Some bolts were turned down, some not. Some had the Royal Thai Police symbol stamped on the receiver with "91" (๙๑) stamped above it and some received the Siamese Charkra stamped on the receiver. They all retained their original Japanese caliber of 6.5x50sr.[31]

Mexican Model 1913 rifle and carbine

[edit]

Ordered in mid 1913 by the Huerta government in the standard Mexican military caliber, 7×57mm Mauser, for 50,000 rifles and later for another 25,000 carbines from the Tokyo Artillery Arsenal. They were made to fit the Mexican Mauser model 1895, 1902 or 1910 bayonets. Due to the Mexican Revolution, Japan instead sold them to Russia.[32] The breech had the Mexican crest under "Republica Mexicana" where the Japanese Imperial Chrysanthemum would be on a Type 38 Arisaka. Early Model 1913s did not have three interlocking circles instead of the Mexican crest as reported in The Type 38 Arisaka (2007), with an early Model 1913 shown to have the Mexican crest.[33]

Estonian KL .303

[edit]

Estonian conversion of the standard Type 38 to the .303 British cartridge, intended for usage by second line troops of the Estonian Defence League. A total of 24,000 rifles were rebored during 1929–1934.[9]

7.62x39 conversion

[edit]

After World War II, Type 38s captured from the IJA were converted to use the 7.62×39mm cartridge by the People's Republic of China since the PLA was being equipped with AK and SKS rifles in that caliber during the 1950s.[7]

Two versions of the converted Type 38s consisted of rifles with just a SKS barrel or of a SKS barrel with a front stock cap and folding bayonet.[7]

Users

[edit]
Finnish Civil War White Guard soldiers were equipped with 6.5 mm M/1905 (Type 38 Arisaka) rifles.
[edit]
  • Detail of rear sight of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
    Detail of rear sight of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
  • Top view of the rear sight on a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
    Top view of the rear sight on a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
  • Inscriptions on the upper handguard of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
    Inscriptions on the upper handguard of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
  • Inscriptions found on top part of receiver of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle (the "Imperial Chrysanthemum" is ground out)
    Inscriptions found on top part of receiver of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle (the "Imperial Chrysanthemum" is ground out)
  • Detail of the front stock of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
    Detail of the front stock of a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
  • Detail of the rear stock inscriptions on a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle
    Detail of the rear stock inscriptions on a Japanese Arisaka Type 38 rifle

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Type 38 rifle

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Type 38 rifle, also known as the Type 38, is a bolt-action, magazine-fed chambered in the 6.5×50mm cartridge, designed as the standard infantry weapon for the and adopted in 1905. It measures 1,280 mm in overall length with an 800 mm barrel, weighs approximately 4.2 kg when unloaded, and feeds from a 5-round internal box magazine with a cyclic of about 30 rounds per minute. Known for its long-range accuracy, robust construction, and compatibility with a long for close-quarters combat, the rifle featured a Mauser-inspired turned-down bolt handle and was produced in large numbers until 1945. The Type 38 was developed under the oversight of a design committee chaired by Colonel Nariakira to address reliability issues with the preceding , resulting in a more refined action and improved processes. Named for the 38th year of Meiji's reign (corresponding to 1905 in the ), it entered production at Japanese arsenals such as Koishikawa and , with additional facilities later established in occupied Korea and ; total output reached approximately 3.4 million units by the end of . In combat, the Type 38 saw service through , the Second Sino-Japanese War, and , where it equipped Japanese infantry in theaters across Asia and the Pacific; captured examples were repurposed by Allied forces, Chinese Nationalists, and even Soviet troops. Post-war, it continued in use during the , , and early stages of the , often by irregular forces due to its durability and availability. Variants included the shorter Type 38 carbine (966 mm overall) for and support troops, the with a 1,200-meter , and export adaptations like the Thai Type 83, though the original model's 6.5mm round was criticized for insufficient , leading to its partial replacement by the 7.7mm in the late 1930s.

Design and Specifications

Overview and Adoption

The Type 38 rifle, also known as the Type 38, served as the standard bolt-action service rifle for the from its introduction until the latter stages of . Chambered primarily in the 6.5×50mm Arisaka cartridge, it was designed to provide reliable infantry firepower with a focus on accuracy and ease of production. Adopted in 1905—the 38th year of the , from which it derives its name—the rifle entered widespread service in 1906 as a direct replacement for the less reliable . The rifle's development was overseen by Colonel Nariakira Arisaka, a prominent ordnance officer, who led a design committee to refine earlier models following lessons from the (1904–1905). During that conflict, Japanese troops encountered reliability issues with the , particularly in harsh conditions, prompting a redesign for improved durability and manufacturing efficiency. , another key figure in Japanese arms design, contributed to these refinements, incorporating a smoother and standardized components inspired by European rifles like the . Measuring 1,280 mm in overall length and weighing approximately 4.2 kg unloaded, the Type 38 offered an effective range of up to 400 meters, suitable for both open-field engagements and defensive positions. Its five-round internal magazine and bolt-action mechanism emphasized rapid reloading and compatibility, aligning with Japanese infantry tactics. Although partially supplanted by the more powerful starting in 1939 due to the need for a larger 7.7mm cartridge, the Type 38 remained in extensive use throughout , equipping second-line units and supplementing frontline forces in the Pacific theater. Its rugged construction and proven performance ensured it saw action in major campaigns until Japan's surrender in 1945.

Technical Specifications

The Type 38 rifle employs a Mauser-inspired bolt-action mechanism featuring a turned-down bolt handle to facilitate faster cycling during operation. It incorporates a 5-round internal staggered magazine that is loaded via 5-round stripper clips inserted through the open action. The barrel has a length of 797 mm and is rifled with 4 right-hand grooves exhibiting a twist rate of 1:9 to stabilize the 6.5×50mm cartridge. A distinctive cover encloses the bolt assembly to shield it from dirt and debris, while the front sight base includes a designed for attachment of the . The rear sight is adjustable for elevation, graduated in 100-meter increments up to a maximum of 2,000 meters. The safety is implemented as a thumb-operated wing-type mounted on the rear bolt shroud, which rotates to lock or unlock the firing mechanism. Construction utilizes a high-carbon barrel and receiver for durability, complemented by a wooden typically crafted from or depending on production era and availability. This design contributes to the rifle's reputation for robust action strength, as evidenced by post-World War II tests conducted by P.O. Ackley, in which Type 38 actions converted to endured extreme overpressure loads exceeding standard limits without catastrophic failure.

Ammunition and Ballistics

The 6.5×50mm Arisaka cartridge, a semi-rimmed, bottlenecked centerfire round, was the standard ammunition for the Type 38 rifle. It featured a 139-grain (9 g) spitzer full metal jacket bullet propelled by approximately 33 grains (2.1 g) of smokeless powder, achieving a muzzle velocity of about 2,500 feet per second (762 m/s) from the rifle's 797 mm barrel. This design provided low recoil, estimated at around 10 foot-pounds of free recoil energy in an 8-pound rifle, making it suitable for sustained fire and marksmanship training. The cartridge's ballistic performance emphasized long-range accuracy over raw power. Its flat trajectory contributed to effective performance at typical engagement distances. Compared to the , the 6.5×50mm offered superior long-range precision due to its lighter and reduced recoil, enabling tighter shot groups at extended distances. Early loads for the Type 38, introduced in 1905, used the 139-grain spitzer bullet to replace the round-nose projectile of the prior Type 30 cartridge, improving aerodynamics and terminal ballistics through a rapid yaw cycle upon impact. By the 1920s, following adoption of the Type 11 light machine gun, an improved reduced-pressure variant emerged with similar ballistics but lower muzzle flash, optimizing compatibility across infantry weapons while maintaining the original's accuracy advantages. Ammunition was manufactured at major Japanese arsenals, including , , and , with production ramping up significantly during and to support imperial forces; estimates indicate over 3 million rounds produced annually by the mid-1940s to meet wartime demands. However, the cartridge's relatively modest —around 1,966 foot-pounds at the muzzle—proved underpowered for anti-material roles, such as engaging light vehicles or barriers, which influenced the development of specialized variants to leverage its precision at the expense of broader utility.

History and Development

Origins and Design Process

The development of the Type 38 rifle was led by Major starting around 1904, building on the Type 35 improvements to the , particularly its reliability shortcomings such as jamming tendencies revealed during the of 1904–1905. Combat experiences in that conflict, including difficulties with extraction and overall performance under field conditions, underscored the need for a more robust successor to the Type 30, which had been the Imperial Japanese Army's standard issue since 1897. The redesign effort was influenced by the earlier Murata rifle's obsolescence, highlighted in the 1894–1895 Sino-Japanese War, where Japanese forces encountered superior foreign designs like the Mannlicher Gewehr 88; this prompted a shift toward cost-effective, modern bolt-action systems capable of high-volume production. Nambu played a pivotal role in leading the redesign, simplifying the Type 30's bolt from 9 parts to 6 parts in a more streamlined turning bolt design for enhanced reliability and ease of maintenance. While drawing inspiration from the German 98's staggered-column magazine and bolt mechanism, Nambu incorporated distinctive Japanese innovations, such as a side-mounted wing safety and a removable cover over the bolt handle to protect against environmental debris. Early prototypes specifically targeted loading inefficiencies in the Type 30, where fully rimmed 6.5×50mmR cartridges often caused rimlock during insertion, jamming the rims together and hindering rapid reloading; this was addressed by transitioning to a semi-rimmed variant of the cartridge, improving smooth feeding without altering the rifle's overall architecture. Testing of prototypes occurred extensively from 1904 to , with emphasis on cold-weather resilience—critical given the war's Manchurian theater—and rapid-fire capabilities to simulate intense combat scenarios. These trials validated improvements in extraction and overall durability, while prioritizing economical manufacturing to succeed the labor-intensive Murata production; the design process culminated in finalization by late , balancing performance enhancements with Japan's industrial constraints.

Production and Manufacturing

The production of the Type 38 rifle commenced in 1906 at the (also known as the Tokyo Arsenal) and spanned until 1945, involving multiple facilities to meet demands. Primary manufacturing sites included the until its closure around 1935, after which the Kokura Arsenal assumed a significant role starting in 1937, alongside the Nagoya Arsenal, which began Type 38 production in 1923. Overall, an estimated 3.4 million Type 38 rifles were produced across these arsenals from 1906 to 1945, supplementing earlier Type 30 models and serving as a mainstay until the introduction of the Type 99. Early output from Koishikawa averaged approximately 70,000 units annually through 1935, totaling around 2 million rifles, with serial numbers reaching up to 2,029,000. As wartime needs intensified, production shifted partially to occupied territories, including the Mukden Arsenal (Hoten) in , where roughly 65,000 units were manufactured between 1937 and 1944. Manufacturing techniques evolved for efficiency amid resource constraints, incorporating stamped metal components in place of fully machined parts during later wartime years to reduce time and material use. By , the unit cost had risen to 75.9 yen due to shortages of and other supplies. Quality declined progressively; early rifles from Koishikawa and featured precise machining and polished finishes, while late-war "last-ditch" examples displayed rougher exteriors, abbreviated polishing, and occasional mixed markings to hasten assembly. Standard markings on Type 38 receivers included the imperial chrysanthemum (often ground off post-war by Allied forces), a four-digit (with a block system of 0–99,999 reset via series prefixes from 1933), and arsenal-specific symbols—such as a stylized flower for /Koishikawa or a circle for .

Variants and Modifications

Japanese Military Variants

The Type 38 Short Rifle was introduced in 1939 as a shortened version of the standard , designed specifically for second-line troops requiring greater maneuverability in non-frontline roles. It featured an overall length of 966 mm and a weight of 3.9 kg, making it lighter and more compact than the full-length model while retaining the bolt-action mechanism. Approximately 100,000 units were produced through conversions of existing . The Type 38 Carbine served as the variant of the Type 38 rifle, optimized for mounted troops and other mobile units with its compact design. It had a barrel length of 479 mm, an overall length of 966 mm, and a weight of 3.2 kg, allowing for easier handling on horseback or in confined spaces. Production totaled approximately 210,000 units, with the majority produced before the . The , introduced in 1911, was an improved version of the Type 38 Carbine, incorporating a hoop-style sling attachment, an integrated for improved stability in and support positions, and a distinctive folding . Its barrel measured 487 mm, emphasizing portability while adding features for prone firing. A total of 91,900 units were manufactured to equip specialized units. The , introduced in 1937, was a scoped adaptation of the Type 38 rifle intended for elite marksmen in precision roles. It included 2.5x magnification optics mounted on the side. Around 22,500 units were produced to support long-range engagements. All Japanese military variants of the Type 38 rifle shared the same 6.5×50mm Arisaka ammunition for logistical consistency, with differences primarily in stock length, barrel dimensions, and specialized attachments to suit role-specific handling requirements such as mobility or accuracy.

Foreign and Post-War Variants

The Chinese "Six/Five Infantry Rifle" was a copy of the Type 38 produced in the 1920s and 1930s at the Gongxian Arsenal, utilizing local steel while maintaining similar specifications to the original design, with production estimated at around 108,000 units. In Siam (modern ), the Type 66 was a locally manufactured variant based on the Type 38, chambered in ×50mmSR and measuring approximately 1,250 mm in overall length, with an order of 50,000 units that took five years to complete in the . The Thai Type 83, derived from captured Japanese Type 38 stocks during , served as a shortened in ×50mmSR, while the Type 91 was a police adaptation; combined production and conversions totaled around 10,000 units. Mexico imported approximately 5,000 Type 38 rifles under a contract, chambered in and designated as the Model 1913, which were later modified into shortened versions for use during the Mexican Revolution. During the , converted around 25,000 Type 38 rifles to caliber, designated as the KL .303, by installing new barrels between 1929 and 1934 to standardize with British-supplied . Post-World War II, some captured Type 38 rifles underwent unofficial conversions to , primarily by Chinese forces using AK-47-compatible ammunition, with rare examples documented among civilian and rebel groups in the totaling about 100 units. The Type 19 carbine, produced in the 1940s under Japanese oversight in puppet state factories such as those in Tientsin, was a crude adaptation blending Type 38 and Type 99 features in 6.5×50mmSR for local auxiliary forces.

Operational History

Primary Users and Deployment

The Type 38 rifle served as the primary standard-issue weapon for the (IJA) and Imperial Japanese Navy's land forces from its adoption in 1905 until the end of in 1945. Approximately 3.4 million units were produced across various state arsenals, equipping the bulk of Japanese infantry formations. By 1941, over 2 million rifles had been issued to active troops, supporting expansion during the Second Sino-Japanese War and early Pacific campaigns. Beyond Japan, the rifle saw adoption by several foreign militaries and paramilitary forces, often through direct purchases, aid, or captures. (formerly Siam) ordered 50,000 Type 38 rifles—locally designated as the Type 66 and chambered in 8x52R—from Japan's Arsenal in 1924, with deliveries completing by the late 1920s; these equipped Thai regular army and police units through and into the Indochina conflicts. In , both Nationalist and Communist forces extensively utilized captured Type 38 rifles during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945) and the subsequent (1945–1949), integrating them into mixed small arms inventories due to shortages of domestic weapons. Mexico acquired a limited number of Type 38 rifles under a 1910 contract for 40,000 units chambered in 7x57mm , but only about 5,000 were delivered by 1911 amid the ; these saw sporadic use by federal and revolutionary forces before the contract was canceled and surplus rifles redirected elsewhere. In the , received rifles via Finnish aid after , which were converted to caliber for use by the and border guards until the Soviet occupation in 1940. The puppet state of , established by in 1932, standardized the Type 38 as its and cavalry rifle, receiving at least 50,000 units from Japanese supplies by 1935 and producing additional examples at the Mukden Arsenal with modified markings. Deployment patterns emphasized the rifle's role in front-line service across Japan's Pacific Theater operations, where it armed assault troops in and island-hopping battles from 1941 to 1945. In the Japanese Home Islands, Type 38 rifles equipped reserve and units for defensive preparations against anticipated Allied invasions, with stockpiles distributed to defense groups by late .

Combat Performance and Use

The Type 38 rifle demonstrated notable reliability in harsh environments, particularly during in the Pacific Theater, where its dust cover helped protect from mud and debris, allowing it to function effectively after submersion tests simulating field conditions. This ruggedness contributed to its widespread use on in 1942, where it was the most common Japanese infantry rifle encountered by Allied forces. The rifle's long 31.4-inch barrel provided good accuracy out to approximately 500 yards, aided by low from the 6.5mm cartridge, which facilitated sustained aimed fire in close-quarters engagements. Despite these strengths, the Type 38 suffered from limitations in ballistic performance, as its 6.5mm round lacked the range and penetration of Allied .30-06 cartridges, leading to reduced effectiveness beyond medium distances against cover or armored targets. Reloading via stripper clips was slower than en-bloc systems used by opponents, further hampering rapid fire in dynamic combat. In key engagements, such as the late stages of the in 1905, the Type 38 proved more reliable than its predecessor, the Type 30, with improved extraction under combat stress. During the 1937 in the Second Sino-Japanese War, it supported urban fighting effectively when paired with bayonets for house-to-house assaults in rubble-strewn streets. In II's Pacific campaigns, including , the rifle remained a staple, emphasizing Japanese focused on marksmanship and . Logistical challenges intensified by 1944, with ammunition shortages forcing reliance on charges as improvised assaults when supplies ran low, as seen in desperate banzai attacks where troops fixed bayonets after expending rifle rounds. Comparatively, the Type 38 outperformed earlier designs in durability and accuracy but was outmatched by the American in volume of fire due to its semiautomatic action, which allowed faster follow-up shots in prolonged battles.

Legacy and Modern Relevance

Post-War Utilization

Following World War II, the Type 38 rifle continued to see service in several Asian conflicts as captured equipment from Japanese occupation forces. During the Korean War (1950–1953), North Korean and Chinese People's Volunteer Army troops employed Type 38 rifles drawn from wartime stockpiles, particularly in the conflict's early phases. Both North and South Korean forces utilized the rifle from June to August 1950, though South Korea largely phased it out after the initial months due to U.S. aid providing modern alternatives; North Korean and Chinese units continued its use throughout the war, with some Chinese examples rechambered to 7.92×57mm Mauser for logistical compatibility. In the (1946–1954), the extensively used captured Type 38 rifles against French colonial forces, having seized stockpiles abandoned by Japanese troops in 1945; the rifle was among the most common bolt-action models in their inventory during the war's opening years. The Type 38 also appeared in post-war insurgencies across , including the Philippine Hukbalahap rebellion (1946–1954), where communist-led guerrillas relied on captured Japanese equipment from . Similar utilization occurred among other guerrilla groups in the region, leveraging remaining Japanese stocks for ambushes and hit-and-run tactics. Post-colonial militaries retained the Type 38 for second-line roles, training, and reserves into the 1960s. In , pro-independence fighters wielded an estimated 100,000 Type 38 rifles during the (1945–1949), drawing from Japanese ammunition depots; after independence, the rifle served police units as the "senapan karabin polisi" until phased out around 1959–1960, with surplus later exported. , which had acquired 50,000 Type 38 rifles pre-war (designated Type 66 in an altered 8×52mmR caliber), maintained them in army reserves and training roles well into the post-war era. In , the 1945 surrender led to the demobilization of millions of Type 38 rifles under Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (SCAP) oversight, with many surrendered weapons scrapped, exported, or demilitarized to comply with occupation disarmament policies; limited numbers were retained for police training or adapted for sporting purposes under strict regulations.

Collectibility and Cultural Impact

The Type 38 rifle is highly collectible among firearms enthusiasts for its historical role in Imperial Japanese forces, durable construction, and distinctive arsenal markings, including the imperial chrysanthemum crest on early production models. Demilitarized examples are available on the market, often valued between $300 and $800 depending on condition and provenance as of 2025. It is exhibited in major museums worldwide, such as the , the in London, and the military museum at in , which features Japanese wartime artifacts. Culturally, the rifle symbolizes Japan's military history in the 20th century and appears in media portrayals of , including the miniseries The Pacific (2010), where it is used by Japanese soldiers. In some regions, its legacy persists in training roles; for instance, Thai forces continued using Type 38 and Type 66 variants for drill purposes as late as 2021, with bolts often removed for safety.

References

  1. https://ww2db.com/weapon.php?q=25
  2. https://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.php?smallarms_id=249
  3. https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30035388
  4. https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_415417
  5. https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/arisaka-rifle-weapons-for-the-imperial-japanese-army-way-of-war/
  6. https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/C141600
  7. https://ia804506.us.archive.org/22/items/1942TM30-480/1942TM30-480.pdf
  8. https://www.ssusa.org/content/too-much-recoil-the-arisaka-may-be-your-solution/
  9. https://www.worldwarsupply.com/product/japanese-type-38-dust-cover/
  10. https://www.sarcoinc.com/parts-kits/rifle-parts-accessories/japanese-arisaka-parts/arisaka-type-38/
  11. https://www.firearmsnews.com/editorial/japanese-65x50mm-sr-arisaka-before-the-creedmoor/383224
  12. https://chuckhawks.com/recoil_table.htm
  13. https://chuckhawks.com/6-5x50.htm
  14. https://www.sierrabullets.com/content/load-data/legacy/264-6.5mm/6.5x50mm-japanese-arisaka.pdf
  15. https://www.forgottenweapons.com/japanese-type-30-hook-safety-arisaka-at-ria/
  16. https://oldmilitarymarkings.com/japanese_markings.html
  17. https://wwiiafterwwii.wordpress.com/2017/04/03/mukden-arsenal-after-wwii/
  18. https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/06/12/last-ditch-arisaka-casual-overview-difference-regular-production-end-war-rifles/
  19. https://bryantridge.com/sold-arisaka-type-38-6-5x50mm-blue-31-historical-japanese-wwii-rifle/
  20. https://ia600601.us.archive.org/22/items/StandardCatalogOfMilitaryFirearmsTheCollectorsPriceAndReferenceGuide1440214514/Standard%20Catalog%20Of%20Military%20Firearms%20-%20The%20Collector%27s%20Price%20and%20Reference%20Guide%20-%201440214514.pdf
  21. https://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.php?smallarms_id=547
  22. https://www.militaryfactory.com/smallarms/detail.php?smallarms_id=1139
  23. https://www.gunboards.com/threads/possible-chinese-made-bayonet-for-mauser-m1904-or-chinese-type-1-rifle.1275764/
  24. https://www.forgottenweapons.com/saimese-mauser-followup-the-type-66-rifle/
  25. https://www.gunboards.com/threads/siamese-83-88-finds-a-home.1236435/
  26. https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/1036/2649/koishikawa-mexican-contract-model-1913-arisaka-rifle
  27. https://www.forgottenweapons.com/estonian-snipers-enfields-in-7-62x54r-and-arisakas-in-303-british/
  28. https://forum.enlisted.net/t/4-arikasa-exports-for-boredom/153216
  29. https://www.forgottenweapons.com/rifles/arisakas-in-7-62x39mm/
  30. https://www.forgottenweapons.com/rifles/north-china-type-19/
  31. https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/46/410/china-bolt-action-carbine-65-mm
  32. https://memo-randum.net/katalog/ognestrelnoe-oruzhie/karabiny/vintovka-arisaka-tip-38/
  33. https://laststandonzombieisland.com/tag/thailand-arisaka/
  34. https://search.orbat.info/history/historical/japan/manchukuo.html
  35. https://www.guns.com/news/2016/08/29/getting-muddy-with-a-japanese-type-38-arisaka-video
  36. https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/the-guns-of-guadalcanal/
  37. https://www.thearmorylife.com/best-rifle-of-the-pacific-war/
  38. https://www.historynet.com/command-chinese-defense-shanghai-1937/
  39. https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/banzai-attack-saipan
  40. https://www.ww2-weapons.com/military-production-japan/
  41. https://wwiiafterwwii.wordpress.com/2015/06/19/wwii-japanese-weapons-in-the-korean-war/
  42. https://cslegion.com/vietnam/de-lattres-line-2-henan-ninh-campaign/
  43. https://wwiiafterwwii.wordpress.com/2024/06/10/wwii-weapons-in-the-indonesian-independence-war/
  44. https://www.gunboards.com/threads/arisaka-type-38-thai-service.1189826/
  45. https://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/30029641
  46. https://www.yasukuni.or.jp/english/yushukan/
  47. https://laststandonzombieisland.com/2021/08/31/arisakas-still-at-work/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.