Mexican Koishikawa Type 38 Arisaka 7x57mm 24.5” Bolt Action Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,927.99
LSB#: WY241122AS061
Make: Koishikawa Arsenal (Tokyo)
Model: Type 38 Mexican Contract
Serial Number: E 301
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1910
Caliber: 7x57mm Mauser
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with a Mexican crest and “1913”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “E 301”. There are various proofs throughout.
Barrel Length: 24.5”.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an inverted V post dovetailed to a base with protective wings. The rear sight is a ghost ring sight attached to a flip up sight ladder assembly. The ladder uses a sliding v-notch with the ladder marked “4-24”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a capped forend w/ bayonet lug & hole for missing cleaning rod, barrel band w/ sling loop, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate. The stock retains its signature split. There are scratches and compressions throughout. There are several chips throughout. There is a crack at the wrist and the front of the forend is split at the barrel band. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Fair to Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is black and the rifling is gone. There is heavy corrosion, pitting and erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 1/10.
Most military and C&R-eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. Much of the finish has turned to patina. There are scratches, nicks, and rust spots throughout. The action has moderate wear. The bolt has patina. The screw heads are tooled but retain strong serviceable slots. The markings are worn and blurry. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fair 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Mexican Koishikawa Type 38 Arisaka chambered in 7x57mm Mauser is a fascinating bolt-action rifle that highlights the global reach and adaptability of early 20th-century firearm production. Manufactured by the Koishikawa Arsenal in Japan for export to Mexico, this rifle is a unique variation of the Type 38 Arisaka, modified to accommodate the widely-used 7x57mm cartridge rather than Japan’s standard 6.5x50mm Arisaka round. With its 24.5-inch barrel, this rifle delivers a balance of accuracy and maneuverability, making it well-suited for military and field use. The 7x57mm Mauser cartridge was a popular choice in the early 20th century due to its excellent ballistics, manageable recoil, and versatility, making it a logical selection for the Mexican military. The Koishikawa Type 38 retained the robust and reliable action of the original Arisaka design, which was renowned for its strength and smooth operation. The modifications to accommodate the Mauser cartridge demonstrate Japan’s ability to tailor its firearm designs for export customers, showcasing a blend of Japanese engineering and global demand for modern military rifles.
For collectors, the Mexican Koishikawa Type 38 Arisaka represents a unique and highly desirable firearm due to its rare origin and specific configuration. Its history ties together Japan’s growing arms industry, Mexico’s efforts to modernize its military, and the influence of the Mauser cartridge in shaping global firearm designs. Whether valued for its historical significance, its uncommon chambering, or its connection to international arms trade, this rifle offers a compelling story that reflects the interconnected military and industrial histories of the early 20th century. -R.E.
