Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine

Published on October 5, 2022
Duration: 16:07

This entry details the rare Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine, presented by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons. It covers the historical context of Japan's shift to 7.7mm, the specific features of this prototype including its unique muzzle brake and recoil-absorbing buttplate, and its provenance as a captured WWII firearm. The assessment highlights the instructor's high authority and detailed knowledge of Japanese firearms development.

Quick Summary

The Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine, presented by Ian McCollum, was an experimental Japanese firearm chambered in 7.7x58mm. It featured unique recoil mitigation systems like a three-port muzzle brake and a spring-loaded buttplate. However, trials revealed excessive muzzle blast and recoil, leading to its abandonment in favor of a 'short rifle' design.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 01:177.7mm Cartridge and Arsenal Conversions
  3. 03:53Action and Bolt Features
  4. 04:32Markings and Serial Numbers
  5. 06:54Sights and Stock Modifications
  6. 08:21Unique Muzzle Device
  7. 09:45Recoil-Absorbing Buttplate
  8. 10:52Provenance and Capture History
  9. 14:15Trials Results and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine?

This prototype represents Japan's attempt to develop a more powerful carbine chambered in 7.7x58mm, moving away from the standard 6.5mm. Despite innovative features like a muzzle brake and recoil-absorbing buttplate, it was ultimately deemed impractical due to excessive recoil and muzzle blast during trials.

What were the key features of the Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine?

Key features include a bolt action based on the Type 38, a unique three-port muzzle brake, a spring-loaded buttplate for recoil mitigation, and specific markings like the vertical '99 Type' kanji and a defaced imperial chrysanthemum. It was chambered in 7.7x58mm.

Why was the Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine not adopted?

During October 1938 trials, the carbine was found to be unpleasant to shoot due to excessive muzzle blast and recoil, even with its specialized brake and buttplate. This led Japan to abandon the carbine concept in favor of a more conventional 'short rifle' design.

What is the provenance of the featured Prototype 7.7mm Arisaka Type 99 Carbine?

This specific prototype was captured on Luzon, Philippines, in December 1945 by Technical Sergeant Kenneth C. Jager. Original US Army capture paperwork and customs declarations documenting its retention and transfer to the US are shown in the video.

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