Nippon Special Steel Type 38 Long Training Rifle, 6.5 Japanese Blank (6.5x50SR Blank), 31.4 in Barrel
This Nippon Special Steel Type 38 long training rifle is a Japanese trainer from the 1930s–1945 era, identifiable by the NSS crest on the receiver ring and the absence of the imperial chrysanthemum. Built as a long Type 38-pattern trainer for 6.5 mm blank cartridges, it features a 31.4-inch barrel, full-length stock, and Type 38-pattern sighting system. It is a historically notable example for collectors of Japanese military training arms.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Specific Condition Notes: Rifling appears straight, appropriate for a training rifle. There is heavy wear throughout with scattered areas of rust. There is a crack along the top of the fore-end. The stock is a non-original replacement.
What’s Included
- Nippon Special Steel Type 38 Long Training Rifle chambered for 6.5 Japanese blank (6.5x50SR blank)
Manufactured by Nippon Special Steel, this rifle carries the NSS crest on the receiver ring, marking it as non-service training production. The lack of the imperial chrysanthemum and the inclusion of a gas-vent hole on the left side of the receiver further support its trainer status.
The configuration follows the long Type 38 pattern with a 31.4-inch barrel and a full-length stock. This example has a hardwood replacement stock and retains the internal box magazine with a floorplate, a 5+1 capacity, and bottom sling swivels. The steel buttplate is checkered and includes a trapdoor.
Sighting equipment follows the Type 38 pattern with a tangent/ladder rear sight; the front sight base is present. The bolt-action system uses the traditional rear safety knob. Length of pull measures 13.5 inches, and the rifle presents as a full-size pattern consistent with long Type 38 trainers.
As a Japanese training rifle from the 1930s–1945 era, it represents a distinct category within Type 38-pattern arms. The features specific to training use—such as its design for 6.5 mm blank cartridges and receiver markings—make it a noteworthy piece for focused collections of Imperial Japanese small arms and their training variants.