Excellent, Early Kokura Arsenal Type 10 Japanese Flare Pistol

Description

10/21/26 - This is an excellent Japanese Type 10 35mm signal pistol, introduced in 1921 and used extensively by the Imperial Japanese Army during WWII. The Type 10 designation corresponds to the tenth year of Emperor Taisho's reign (1921). It is a single-shot, single-barrel, exclusively double action design. This example is all matching, with serial number 1533 on the left frame flat, the last three digits on the underside of the barrel, and the last two digits on the trigger guard. Production transferred from Tokyo to Kokura Arsenal's Second Factory in 1935, around serial number 1400, placing this example 133 pistols into the new factory's production and suggesting manufacture shortly after the transfer. Kokura subsequently produced the rest of the approximately 6,900 remaining Type 10s, averaging around 700 annually until 1945, bringing the total production count to roughly 8,300. The design shares several characteristics with the earlier Japanese Type 26 revolver, particularly the grip frame and trigger assembly, and some components were reportedly interchangeable in late-war production. The overall condition is excellent, with the pistol retaining approximately 95%-97% of its original finish. While there isn't much actual finish loss, there is a light layer of surface freckling throughout the majority of the metal. This freckling does not penetrate the bluing and is visually subtle. There are a few scattered scuffs and scrapes here and there, and a bit of muzzle wear. The smoothbore looks unfired, but is not quite mint, as it has the same light surface-level freckling throughout its length. Lockup and mechanical functionality are fantastic. A couple of the frame screws are slightly marred, but not enough for it to affect takedown or aesthetics. The grips are in mostly great shape, with a few minor dings, scuffs, and small gouges. 
Note: This is not a firearm and therefore requires no licensing to purchase.