SOLD - Scarce Type I Carcano Rifle

Description

1/13/21 - This is an interesting and somewhat uncommonly seem Carcano Type I rifle. These rifles were made for the Japanese empire by Italy in the late 1930s and early 1940s, and primarily used by Japanese Imperial Navy forces. The gun is all original, correct without mum and only the one serial on the side of the receiver. The original bluing is very nice overall but there is 10-20% wear. Mint bore, hardly looks fired. Sling appears to be from the time period. The stock is also in excellent condition but does appear sanded.

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After the invasion of China in July 1937, all Arisaka production was required for use of the Imperial Army, so under the terms of the Anti-Comintern Pact, the Imperial Navy contracted with Italy for this weapon in 1937. The Type I is based on the Type 38 rifle and utilizes a Carcano action, but retains the Arisaka/Mauser type 5-round box magazine. The Type I was utilized primarily by Japanese Imperial Naval Forces. It is chambered for the 6.5 x 50 mm cartridge. Approximately 120,000 Type I rifles were produced in 1938 and 1939, with 30,000 each manufactured by Beretta and Fabbrica Nazionale d'Armi, and 60,000 manufactured by the state arsenal in Gardone Val Trompia. The final shipment to Japan left Venice by submarine in 1941.