History of WWI Primer 032: Japanese "Arisaka" Type 38 Documentary

Published on August 16, 2016
Duration: 41:18

This guide details the operational techniques for the Japanese Type 38 Arisaka rifle, emphasizing its unique features like the cock-on-close action and sliding dust cover. It highlights the importance of safe handling and familiarization with its specific mechanisms, drawing from expert analysis of its design and battlefield performance. The instruction focuses on practical application and understanding the rifle's reliability in various conditions.

Quick Summary

The Japanese Type 38 Arisaka rifle, an improvement over the Type 30, features a 9.2 lbs weight, 50.2" length, and 6.5x50mm caliber with a 5-round magazine. Its notable sliding dust cover seals the action, enhancing reliability in harsh conditions. The palm-operated safety cap also aids usability in adverse environments.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Type 38
  2. 00:44Technical Specifications
  3. 01:20Shortcomings of the Type 30
  4. 01:41Kijiro Nambu's Influence
  5. 06:45Nambu's Design Philosophy
  6. 08:30Ammunition Improvements
  7. 09:32The Dust Cover and Action
  8. 12:45Safety Mechanism
  9. 14:44Production History
  10. 19:19International Use in WWI
  11. 22:00Range Testing and Ergonomics

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key technical specifications of the Japanese Type 38 Arisaka rifle?

The Type 38 Arisaka rifle weighs 9.2 lbs (4.2 kg), has an overall length of 50.2 inches (128 cm), is chambered in 6.5x50mm, and features a 5-round fixed double-stack magazine fed by stripper clips.

What made the Type 38 Arisaka an improvement over the Type 30?

The Type 38 addressed issues like jamming, vulnerability to dirt, weak extraction, and complex disassembly found in the Type 30. Its key innovation was a sliding dust cover to seal the action.

How was the safety mechanism on the Type 38 Arisaka designed?

It features a large cap at the rear of the bolt, operated by the palm of the hand. This design utilizes gross motor control, making it easier to operate in harsh conditions.

Where was the Japanese Type 38 Arisaka rifle produced?

Initial production was at the Tokyo Artillery Arsenal. Following the 1923 earthquake, production expanded to Kokura, Nagoya, Jinsen (Korea), and Mukden (Manchuria).

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