Type 97: Kijiro Nambu Adapts the ZB-30 for Japanese Tanks

Published on April 22, 2021
Duration: 17:54

This guide details the field stripping process for the Japanese Type 97 Tank Machine Gun, adapted from the Czech ZB-30 design. It covers removing the end plate, bolt/operating rod assembly, and barrel. The process highlights unique features like the forward-mounted recoil spring and quick-change barrel, crucial for maintenance in confined armored vehicles. The video emphasizes the importance of proper disassembly for cleaning and reliability, especially for this rare collector's item.

Quick Summary

The Type 97 Tank Machine Gun, adopted in 1937, was the standard machine gun for Japanese armored vehicles. Adapted by Kijiro Nambu from the Czech ZB-30, it featured a heavy finned barrel, folding stock, and used the 7.7x58mm rimless cartridge for reliable feeding. Complete examples with original optics and bipods are exceptionally rare today.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Type 97 Tank MG
  2. 01:16Ammunition Evolution
  3. 03:01Adaptation of the ZB Design
  4. 04:46Tank-Specific Design Features
  5. 05:55Markings and Production
  6. 06:36Stock and Grip Mechanics
  7. 08:08Magazine and Controls
  8. 09:08Optical Sight
  9. 09:53Iron Sights and Gas Block
  10. 11:34Emergency Bipod
  11. 12:26Field Stripping
  12. 15:17Conclusion and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Type 97 Tank Machine Gun?

The Type 97 Tank Machine Gun is a Japanese light machine gun adopted in 1937, serving as the standard armament for most Japanese armored vehicles. It was an adaptation of the Czech ZB-26/30 design by Kijiro Nambu, chambered in 7.7x58mm rimless ammunition.

What were the key modifications for the Type 97 Tank MG?

Modifications included a heavy finned barrel for cooling, offset sights to clear tank mounts, a relocated recoil spring for a folding stock, and a robust design for use in confined armored vehicles. It also featured a 1.5x optical sight for aiming.

What ammunition does the Type 97 Tank Machine Gun use?

The Type 97 Tank Machine Gun primarily uses the 7.7x58mm Arisaka (rimless) cartridge. This rimless round was specifically developed to ensure reliable feeding from the ZB-style magazines, which had issues with semi-rimmed rounds.

How rare is the Type 97 Tank Machine Gun today?

Complete sets of the Type 97 Tank Machine Gun, especially those including the original optical sight and emergency bipod, are considered extremely rare, particularly in the United States. Production numbers were estimated between 15,000 and 17,000 units.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →