Japan Type 44 Carbine Mum 6.5 Arisaka Folding Bayonet Bolt Action Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,175.00
LSB#: LSB250701SW001
Make: Nagoya Arsenal, Japan
Model: Type 44 Carbine
Serial Number: 7228 (2nd Series)
Year of Manufacture: 1933 to 1940
Caliber: 6.5x50mm (6.5 Jap or 6.5 Arisaka)
Action Type: Bolt Action with Internal Magazine
Markings: There is no visible import mark. The top of the receiver is marked with a “chrysanthemum”, the Imperial ownership seal, and with 3 Japanese Kanji that translate to “44 Type”. The “chrysanthemum” is crisp and complete. The left side of the receiver is marked (from left to right) with the “2nd” series symbol, the serial number, with the symbol for the Nagoya Arsenal. The bolt is non serial matched to the receiver. The forend cap is matched.
Barrel Length: Approximately 19.2 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small barleycorn post between two protective ears. The rear sight is a “V” notched blade attached to a flip up sight ladder with a sliding “V” notch. It is marked from “4 – 20”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece hardwood with a semi-pistol grip, finger grooves, cutout for the folding bayonet, metal nose cap, barrel band, two sling loops, hooked bayonet quillon (not a stacking loop) and a metal buttplate. The bottom of the forearm has 2 drain holes. There is a lever on the right of the butt that rotates to open an oval slot in the buttplate. This exposes the cleaning rod storage area in the butt stock. The buttplate shows scrapes and oxidation with minor erosion at the heel and toe. There are deep nicks, chips, scratches, compressions, and scrapes throughout. There are no notable cracks, but there is a large gouge on the left side of the stock. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is some very faint erosion but for the most part the bore is clean with only minor fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. There are light spots of thinning and light patina, especially concentrated on the dust cover and floor plate. There is scattered intermittent oxidation. The screw heads show use. The markings are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. The bayonet locks into place correctly. The lever on the right of the butt is rotated up to open the oval in the buttplate and expose the cleaning rod storage area.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Japanese Type 44 Carbine is one of the more distinctive rifles to come out of the Arisaka series, designed specifically for cavalry troops who required a compact weapon with an integrated bayonet. Introduced in 1911, it incorporated a permanently attached folding spike bayonet that could be extended or folded beneath the barrel when not in use. This feature eliminated the need for troopers to carry a separate bayonet, and while it added weight to the front end, it proved highly practical in the field. Produced by multiple arsenals, this particular rifle comes from the Nagoya Arsenal, identified as a 2nd Series rifle made sometime between 1933 and 1940. The crisp and intact Imperial chrysanthemum crest on the receiver indicates it was not surrendered or defaced after World War II, which significantly boosts its collector value. This example remains in solid condition, retaining about 85 percent of its original finish with light thinning, patina, and minor oxidation scattered across the metal surfaces. The stock shows heavy service wear with dents, gouges, chips, and scratches, though it remains free of cracks and structurally sound. The folding bayonet locks into place properly, and the mechanical action functions smoothly, maintaining the reliability the Arisaka series is known for. The bore is a highlight, bright with sharp rifling, rating 9 out of 10 and ensuring that this carbine is still a strong shooter by collector standards. The buttstock retains its cleaning rod storage compartment, a detail often lost or damaged, which further enhances its completeness.
For collectors of Japanese military arms, a Type 44 Carbine with its chrysanthemum intact is a highly desirable acquisition. These rifles embody Japan’s approach to equipping cavalry with compact, multifunctional arms and are far less common on the market than the standard Type 38 or Type 99 rifles. This example, with its strong bore, intact arsenal markings, and functional folding bayonet, represents an appealing balance of originality, service history, and condition. Whether as part of a broader Arisaka collection, a World War II display, or a dedicated Japanese arms grouping, this rifle is both historically significant and collectible. -R.E.
