Japanese "Papa" Nambu pistol with matching stock

Published on July 9, 2012
Duration: 5:35

This review of a rare Japanese 'Papa' Nambu pistol highlights its unique matching shoulder stock, a feature not typically found on this model. The pistol, produced by Tokyo Gas and Electric, was presented to Mexican officials to showcase Japanese arms manufacturing quality. The stock converts the pistol into a carbine and houses a spare magazine, with all components bearing matching serial numbers.

Quick Summary

A rare Japanese 'Papa' Nambu pistol, produced by Tokyo Gas & Electric, features a unique matching wooden shoulder stock and spare magazine. This 8mm automatic was presented to Mexican officials in 1913 to showcase Japanese arms manufacturing quality, aiming to secure a rifle contract.

Chapters

  1. 00:14Introduction: Jim Langley & Rare Nambu
  2. 00:34Japanese 'Papa' Nambu Overview
  3. 00:46Shoulder Stock Rarity Explained
  4. 01:09Unique Tokyo Gas & Electric Papa Nambu
  5. 01:20Pistol-Carbine Conversion & History
  6. 01:54Presidential Ownership and Provenance
  7. 02:48Purpose: Mexican Rifle Contract Incentive
  8. 03:16Craftsmanship and Accessories
  9. 03:39Matching Serial Numbers
  10. 03:55Evolution to Type 14 Nambu
  11. 04:26Usage and Nomenclature Quirks
  12. 04:50Features and Discontinuation

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 'Papa' Nambu pistol with a shoulder stock so rare?

The 'Papa' Nambu, the second model of Nambu automatics, typically did not come with shoulder stocks. Only three were officially made by Tokyo Artillery Arsenal for Thailand. This specific Tokyo Gas & Electric example is unique as the only known stocked 'Papa' Nambu produced by that manufacturer.

What was the historical purpose of this specific 'Papa' Nambu pistol?

This 'Papa' Nambu pistol was produced in 1913 by Tokyo Gas and Electric and presented to a high-ranking Mexican official. Its purpose was to demonstrate Japan's advanced weapon manufacturing capabilities, aiming to secure a contract for producing Mauser rifles for Mexico.

What are the key features of the 'Papa' Nambu pistol?

The 'Papa' Nambu is an 8mm automatic pistol featuring a grip safety and a tangent rear sight adjustable up to 500 yards. It is known for its robust construction, though it is bulkier and heavier than the later Type 14 Nambu.

What accessories are associated with this rare 'Papa' Nambu pistol?

This particular 'Papa' Nambu pistol is notable for its matching wooden shoulder stock, which also serves as a holster. It is accompanied by a second matching magazine stored within the buttstock. An original cleaning rod was also part of the set but is now lost.

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