WW2 Japanese Baby Nambu Pistol | Walk-in Wednesday

Published on November 19, 2019
Duration: 14:46

This video provides an in-depth look at the Japanese Baby Nambu pistol, highlighting its historical significance, rarity, and collector value. The presenter, an experienced firearms dealer, details production numbers, variations, and the unique characteristics of specific models, including an extremely rare 'Imperial Gift' variant. He also discusses the scarcity and value of associated accessories like holsters and magazines, offering insights into the challenges of collecting these historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Japanese Baby Nambu pistol is a highly desirable collector's item, often considered an honor weapon for officers. Its rarity, historical significance, and unique design contribute to its value. Extremely rare early holsters and 'Imperial Gift' variants further enhance its collectibility, with original 7mm ammunition being scarce and expensive.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction to Japanese Firearms
  2. 00:52The Japanese Baby Nambu Pistol
  3. 01:04Auction Find: Rare Holster Discovery
  4. 02:46Early vs. Later Holster Types
  5. 03:40Baby Nambu Production Details
  6. 04:44Who Carried the Baby Nambu?
  7. 05:51Common Baby Nambu Features
  8. 06:317mm Nambu Ammunition
  9. 07:27Nambu Pistol Family Overview
  10. 08:13Baby Nambu Finish and Condition
  11. 09:34Identifying Reblued Nambus
  12. 10:26Magazines and Grips
  13. 11:34The 'Imperial Gift' Baby Nambu
  14. 13:37Imperial Gift Accessories
  15. 14:24Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Japanese Baby Nambu pistol so desirable to collectors?

The Baby Nambu is highly desirable due to its status as the 'ultimate cream of the crop' in Japanese firearms, often serving as an honor weapon for officers. Its rarity, historical significance, and unique design contribute to its high collector value.

How rare are the early Baby Nambu holsters?

Early Baby Nambu holsters with a hard shell and specific 'NG' markings are exceptionally rare, with fewer than 20 examples known to exist among collectors in the United States. The holster alone can be worth more than the pistol.

What are the production numbers for the Baby Nambu pistol?

Approximately 6,000 Baby Nambus were produced at the Tokyo Arsenal, and a further 550 were made by Tokyo Gas and Electric, making the latter variant rarer. Production ran from around 1902 to 1928.

Why is the 7mm ammunition for the Baby Nambu so expensive?

The 7mm Nambu ammunition is obsolete, meaning it is no longer in standard production. Original rounds are scarce and highly sought after by collectors, driving the price up significantly, often between $30 to $50 per round.

What is the significance of the 'Imperial Gift' marking on a Baby Nambu?

A Baby Nambu marked with Kenji writing indicating an 'Imperial Gift' signifies it was presented by the Emperor's order, likely to special cadets or officers who achieved something phenomenal. These are extremely rare, with only about fourteen known examples.

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