Intro
Discover the fascinating history and specifications of the Type 99 Arisaka Long Rifle, a Japanese bolt-action rifle used during World War II. Explore its development, features, and combat performance, as well as its variants and comparisons to other iconic rifles, such as the M1 Garand and Karabiner 98k.
The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle is a fascinating piece of military history that played a significant role in World War II. Developed by the Japanese, this rifle was designed to be a more reliable and accurate alternative to the earlier Type 38 Arisaka rifle. In this article, we will delve into the history of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle, its specifications, and what makes it a valuable collector's item today.
History of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle
The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle was designed in the 1930s by a team led by Colonel Arisaka Nariakira, a renowned Japanese firearms designer. The rifle was intended to replace the earlier Type 38 Arisaka, which had proven to be unreliable and inaccurate in combat. The new rifle was designed to be more robust, accurate, and reliable, with a stronger action and a more efficient gas system.
The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle was first produced in 1939 and saw extensive service during World War II. It was used by the Imperial Japanese Army in various theaters, including China, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. The rifle gained a reputation for being reliable and accurate, but also for being heavy and cumbersome.
Design and Features
The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle features a bolt-action design with a five-round magazine capacity. It is chambered in 7.7x58mm Arisaka, a cartridge that was specifically designed for the rifle. The rifle has a 26-inch barrel and weighs approximately 8.6 pounds. It also features a muzzle brake and a folding rear sight.
One of the unique features of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle is its monopod, which is attached to the stock. This feature allows the rifle to be used as a makeshift sniper rifle, providing additional stability and accuracy.
Specifications
- Caliber: 7.7x58mm Arisaka
- Barrel length: 26 inches
- Weight: 8.6 pounds
- Magazine capacity: 5 rounds
- Action: Bolt-action
- Muzzle velocity: 2,500 feet per second
- Effective range: 500 yards
- Length: 46.5 inches
- Stock: Wood
Variants
There were several variants of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle produced during World War II. These variants include:
- Type 99 Short Rifle: A shorter version of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle, designed for use by cavalry and special forces units.
- Type 99 Long Rifle with Scope: A variant of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle that features a telescopic scope attached to the receiver.
- Type 99 Sniper Rifle: A variant of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle that features a heavier barrel and a specialized sniper scope.
Collectibility
The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle is a highly sought-after collector's item, particularly among World War II enthusiasts. The rifle's unique design and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any firearms collection.
However, collecting the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle can be challenging due to its rarity and the fact that many examples were destroyed or lost during World War II. Additionally, the rifle's condition and provenance can greatly affect its value, making it essential for collectors to research and authenticate their finds carefully.
Tips for Collectors
If you're interested in collecting the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Research and authenticate: Make sure to research the rifle's history and provenance carefully to ensure its authenticity.
- Condition is key: The rifle's condition can greatly affect its value, so look for examples that are in good condition.
- Rarity matters: The rarity of the rifle can also affect its value, so look for variants that are harder to find.
- Join a collector's community: Joining a collector's community can provide valuable resources and connections for finding and authenticating the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle.
Conclusion
The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle is a fascinating piece of military history that played a significant role in World War II. Its unique design and historical significance make it a valuable collector's item, but its rarity and condition can affect its value. By researching and authenticating the rifle carefully, collectors can add a valuable piece to their collection.
Arisaka Rifle Image Gallery
What is the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle?
+The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle is a bolt-action rifle designed by the Japanese during World War II. It was intended to replace the earlier Type 38 Arisaka rifle and saw extensive service during the war.
What is the significance of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle?
+The 99 Arisaka Long Rifle is significant because it was a major improvement over the earlier Type 38 Arisaka rifle and played a significant role in World War II. It is also a highly sought-after collector's item due to its rarity and historical significance.
How can I collect the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle?
+To collect the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle, research and authenticate the rifle carefully to ensure its authenticity. Look for examples that are in good condition and join a collector's community to connect with other collectors and find rare variants.
We hope this article has provided valuable insights into the history and specifications of the 99 Arisaka Long Rifle. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.