SOLD - Japanese Type 97 Sniper Rifle (9432 - 23486)

Description

1/17/23 - This is a rare and original Type 97 Japanese sniper rifle, one of only 15,000 Nagoya Arsenal made from 1938-45. These were based on the Type 38 rifle, and when fired, the mild 6.5x50mm Arisaka cartridge gave off little flash or smoke and made counter-sniper activity difficult. This particular rifle is all matching numbers throughout, including the bolt assembly. This one has a partially ground mum, and the original finish shows some freckling along the top of the barrel where it meets the receiver. Otherwise, there's very little finish loss aside from the area where the mum was ground. The stock is in excellent condition but was sanded at some point. Comes with an original 2.5x scope with the rare, original canvas carry case. The finish on the scope is very good with some edge wear, and the optics are somewhat clear but there does appear to be some dirt/debris in the optical field. The eye cup is likely a later reproduction. Mint bore.