A Japanese Officer's Pistol: The Baby Nambu

Published on April 23, 2017
Duration: 13:10

The Baby Nambu, or Type B Nambu Automatic Pistol, was a scaled-down ceremonial sidearm for Japanese officers, distinct from the combat-oriented Type A. Chambered in 7mm Nambu, it fired a round comparable to the .25 ACP. Production was limited to around 6,500 units due to high cost, with tooling eventually moving from the Tokyo Army Arsenal to Tokyo Gas & Electric after the 1923 earthquake.

Quick Summary

The Baby Nambu (Type B) was a scaled-down Japanese officer's pistol, chambered in 7mm Nambu, comparable to .25 ACP. Produced by Tokyo Army Arsenal and TGE, only about 6,500 were made. Avoid dry firing due to a fragile striker tab.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Baby Nambu
  2. 01:25Historical Context and Caliber (7mm Nambu)
  3. 03:20Production History: Tokyo Arsenal & TGE
  4. 05:21Disassembly and Internal Mechanics
  5. 10:10Trigger Mechanism & 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 designed primarily as a ceremonial sidearm or badge of rank for Japanese officers. It was not intended as a primary combat weapon, unlike its larger predecessors.

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

The Baby Nambu is chambered in 7mm Nambu. It fires a 56-grain bullet at approximately 800 feet per second, offering similar performance characteristics to the .25 ACP cartridge.

Who manufactured the Baby Nambu, and what was its production volume?

Production began at the Tokyo Army Arsenal and later moved to Tokyo Gas & Electric (TGE) after the 1923 earthquake. Total production was limited to roughly 6,500 units due to high costs and limited demand.

What is a critical warning regarding the Baby Nambu's trigger mechanism?

It is crucial to avoid dry firing the Baby Nambu. The small tab on the striker is notoriously fragile and prone to breaking during dry fire, which can damage the firearm.

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