A Japanese Officer's Pistol: The Baby Nambu

Published on April 23, 2017
Duration: 13:10

This guide details the disassembly and reassembly of the Baby Nambu pistol, as explained by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the specific steps required to field strip the firearm, highlighting the unique locked-breech mechanism and potential pitfalls. The information is presented with the authority of a recognized expert in historical firearms, offering practical insights for collectors and enthusiasts.

Quick Summary

The Baby Nambu, officially the Nambu Automatic Pistol Type B, was a scaled-down Japanese officer's sidearm chambered in 7mm Nambu. Produced from 1903, its complex locked-breech design and high cost limited production to approximately 6,500 units. Disassembly requires careful attention to the striker tab and trigger guard release mechanism.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Baby Nambu
  2. 01:25Historical Context and Caliber
  3. 03:20Production History
  4. 05:21Disassembly and Internal Mechanics
  5. 10:10Trigger Mechanism and Dry Firing Warning

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the intended purpose of the Baby Nambu pistol?

The Baby Nambu, officially the Nambu Automatic Pistol Type B, was primarily designed as a ceremonial sidearm or badge of rank for Japanese officers, rather than a standard issue combat weapon. Its compact size made it a more discreet option for officers.

What caliber does the Baby Nambu fire, and how does it compare?

The Baby Nambu is chambered in 7mm Nambu. Its performance, with a 56-grain bullet at around 800 fps, is comparable to the .25 ACP cartridge, making it a relatively low-powered round for its time.

What are the key steps for disassembling the Baby Nambu?

Disassembly involves removing the striker tab, sliding the trigger guard down to release the barrel assembly, and then extracting the locking block, bolt, and striker. Extreme care is needed due to the fragile striker tab.

Why was the production of the Baby Nambu limited?

The Baby Nambu had limited production, estimated at around 6,500 units. This was due to its high manufacturing cost and relatively low demand, as it wasn't considered a primary combat firearm.

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