From the Vault: Type 99 Japanese Arisaka

This video focuses on the Arisaka Type 99 rifle, a bolt-action firearm used by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. The description details its development, stemming from the need for a new rifle cartridge to replace the Type 38's 6.5×50mm round, aligning with the superior 7.7mm cartridge of the Type 92 heavy machine gun. The Type 99 was based on the Type 38 but chambered in 7.7mm and was produced across nine arsenals, including locations in Japan, Manchukuo, and Korea.

The Japanese Type 99 Arisaka WWII Sniper Rifle, chambered in 7.7x58mm, features a Mauser-style bolt action and often came with factory-zeroed optics lacking external adjustments. Despite common myths, Arisakas are robust firearms, with sniper variants commanding significant collector value. Testing revealed accuracy issues with mismatched scopes but good potential with iron sights.

The Japanese Type 4 rifle is a World War II-era attempt to replicate the American M1 Garand, chambered in 7.7mm. It features a 10-round box magazine fed by stripper clips, deviating from the Garand's en-bloc system. While mechanically similar to the Garand, it incorporates Japanese design elements like an Arisaka-style sling swivel and a tangent rear sight, which is criticized for its small aperture.

The Arisaka Type 99 was tested for practical accuracy out to 500 yards, revealing its unique sight system's challenges and combat-oriented design. Despite a learning curve with the barley-corn post and aperture, the rifle proved capable of hitting targets at extended ranges. Its smooth, fast bolt action and combat accuracy philosophy made it well-suited for the Imperial Japanese Army's doctrine.

This review delves into the Japanese Type 38 and Type 99 Arisaka rifles, highlighting their historical significance and design differences. The Type 38, chambered in 6.5x50mm, is praised for its quality despite myths, while the Type 99, in 7.7x58mm, was developed for more power. Key collector points include the Imperial Mum, matching serial numbers, and original accessories.

This video provides a comprehensive book review of "Japanese Rifles of World War II" by Duncan McCollum. The reviewer highlights the book's value for collectors, particularly its focus on the Type 99, Type 38, Type 44, Type 2 paratrooper rifle, and sniper Arisakas. It's recommended for identifying, dating, and determining the manufacturer of Japanese rifles from WWII, serving as a great resource for both new and intermediate collectors looking to catalog their collections.

This video details the installation of a Geissele MK8 Super Modular Rail on an AR-15. Key steps include using a Geissele Reaction Rod for upper receiver stability, proper torquing of the proprietary barrel nut, and secure installation of the gas block and tube. The rail is then slid on and secured with two cross-bolts using a T-handle hex wrench. Final steps involve muzzle device installation and a thorough inspection.

Proper ammunition storage is crucial for maintaining reliability and safety. Avoid storing ammo in cardboard boxes in damp environments, as this leads to moisture absorption and corrosion. Utilize airtight containers like ammo cans and control humidity with desiccants like silica gel packs. Heat accelerates gunpowder and primer degradation, so store ammo at stable room temperatures. Reloading primers are particularly vulnerable to moisture and require strict airtight storage.

This video demonstrates how to upgrade an AR-15's A2 furniture to Magpul components. It details the removal of the A2 grip using a Bondhus hex set and the installation of a Magpul MIAD grip with interchangeable backstraps for improved ergonomics. The process also covers preparing and installing the Magpul PRS stock, highlighting its adjustable features for cheek weld and length of pull.

This video explores the custom Remington 11-87 shotgun used as a prop in 'No Country for Old Men.' The film required a semi-automatic shotgun with a suppressor, a combination not readily available at the time. Prop master Larry Zanoff details how a non-functional, 'homemade' looking suppressor was custom-built for the 11-87, with the iconic silenced sound effect achieved entirely in post-production.