"Grandpa Nambu" Japanese Pistol

Published on November 15, 2016
Duration: 19:40

The Nambu Type A 'Grandpa' pistol was Japan's first successful semi-automatic handgun, developed by Kijiro Nambu. It shares mechanical similarities with the Mauser C96 and fires the 8mm Nambu cartridge. Production was limited, with many exported to Thailand. A key design weakness is the striker's small tab, making dry-firing risky.

Quick Summary

The Nambu Type A 'Grandpa' pistol, developed by Kijiro Nambu, was Japan's first successful semi-automatic handgun. It fires the 8mm Nambu cartridge and shares mechanical similarities with the Mauser C96. A key design weakness is the striker's small tab, making dry-firing risky.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Grandpa Nambu History
  2. 01:17Design & 8mm Nambu Caliber
  3. 02:51Nomenclature and Shoulder Stock
  4. 04:13Production Numbers & Thai Service
  5. 08:07Controls and Sights Explained
  6. 09:41Field Stripping Demonstration
  7. 13:35Internal Mechanics & Weaknesses
  8. 17:02Magazine & Model Upgrades (Papa Nambu)

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Nambu Type A 'Grandpa' pistol historically significant?

The Nambu Type A 'Grandpa' pistol is significant as Japan's first successful semi-automatic handgun, developed by Kijiro Nambu starting in 1897 to modernize military sidearms and replace older revolvers.

What caliber does the Nambu Type A 'Grandpa' pistol fire, and how does it compare?

It fires the 8mm Nambu cartridge, a bottlenecked round with a 102-grain bullet traveling around 950-1000 fps, offering power comparable to the .380 Auto cartridge.

What are the key identifying features of the 'Grandpa' Nambu model?

The 'Grandpa' Nambu is characterized by its wooden shoulder stock that doubles as a holster, a retractable metal extension for length of pull, and a unique wooden base plate on its magazine.

What is a major design weakness of the Nambu pistol?

A critical weakness is the small tab on the striker, which is prone to shearing off. This makes dry-firing these pistols highly discouraged to prevent damage.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →