WW2 Japanese Arisaka Type 38 Carbine Bolt Action Rifle, Caliber 6.5×50 (Original)
SKU: JAPANESE ARISAKA TYPE 38 CARBINE
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Model: Type 38
Serial Number:
Manufacture:
Date Manufactured:
Caliber: 6.5x50 mm SR Arisaka
Overall length: Approx. 38 inches
Weight (unloaded): Around 7 lbs (3.2 kg)
Magazine capacity: 5-round internal box
Effective Range:
Condition: Very Good
Bore: 9/10
Price: $900.00
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Seller Type: Classification: C&R / FFL
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: 600
Description
This Original WW2 Japanese Arisaka Type 38 Carbine Bolt Action Rifle, Caliber 6.5×50 is in Very Good condition.
History
The Arisaka Type 38 Carbine is a shortened version of Japan's standard infantry rifle used during the early to mid-20th century. Chambered in 6.5×50mmSR Arisaka, this bolt-action rifle was designed for improved maneuverability and issued primarily to cavalry, engineers, and other troops needing a compact firearm.
History & Development
Adopted in 1905 and serving through World War II, the Type 38 series—named for the 38th year of Emperor Meiji’s reign—was Japan’s response to modernizing its infantry weapons. The carbine variant was introduced to address the challenges of handling the full-length rifle in tight spaces or on horseback.
Unlike the longer Type 38 rifle, which stretched over 50 inches in length, the carbine version measured about 38 inches, making it much handier in the field. Though it sacrificed some range and muzzle velocity, the trade-off was worth it for troops in confined or mobile roles.
Key Features
- Action: Bolt-action, 5-round internal magazine
- Caliber: 6.5×50mmSR Arisaka
- Length: Approx. 38 inches
- Weight: Around 7 lbs (3.2 kg)
- Barrel: Shortened version for easier handling
- Bayonet Lug: Compatible with the standard Japanese Type 30 bayonet
Design Characteristics
The Type 38 Carbine is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and strong, reliable action, considered one of the strongest bolt-action systems of the era. It features the Chrysanthemum (Imperial Seal) stamp on the receiver—unless defaced post-war, a common practice during Allied occupation.
One distinct feature of Arisaka rifles, including the carbine, is their dust cover, which slides over the bolt to protect it from debris—an essential feature for island warfare in the Pacific theater.
In Combat
Though it lacked the stopping power of larger rifles used by Allied forces, the 6.5mm cartridge produced low recoil and high accuracy, allowing for more precise follow-up shots. Japanese soldiers wielded the Type 38 Carbine in numerous campaigns, particularly in China and the Pacific islands, where compactness was crucial.
