Nagoya Arsenal Type 99 Sporterized Bolt-Action Rifle, 7.7 Japanese, 22-Inch Barrel
This WWII-era Nagoya Arsenal Type 99 Short Rifle has been professionally sporterized in the post-war United States. Its 22-inch barrel, precision Redfield aperture rear sight, and hand-carved hardwood stock make it a distinctive example of the surplus Arisaka rifles customized for American hunters. Matching bolt root numbers, original Nagoya 8-petal arsenal mark, and retained stripper-clip bridge preserve key historical elements while the modern upgrades enhance field utility.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Specific Condition Notes: The original stock has been replaced with a sporter-carved hardwood stock featuring floral scrolls and a hunter-and-deer scene. Scratches are present on both the stock and metal surfaces.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- Nagoya Arsenal Type 99 Short Rifle as described
Produced at Nagoya Arsenal, this rifle began life as a standard Type 99 but was later converted to suit American sporting tastes. The barrel has been professionally cut to 22 inches, improving handling without sacrificing the 7.7 Japanese cartridge’s ballistic performance.
A Redfield precision aperture rear sight is mounted to the receiver, offering a crisp sight picture and precise windage/elevation adjustments. The original front ramp retains its square post, though the protective ears have been removed to clear the sight picture.
The hardwood stock has been artistically engraved on both sides with deep floral scrollwork and a hunting scene, then finished in a reddish gloss. A Pachmayr White Line recoil pad extends length of pull to 13 inches while softening felt recoil.
Despite the sporterization, several military features remain: the stripper-clip bridge is intact, the receiver is still drilled for the monopod, and the original barrel bands and five-round internal magazine are present. Serial number 3011 with matching “011” bolt root underscores its original factory pairing.