What’s the best made and accurate Japanese rifle?

[J-ROD]

Found a 99 at auction. Not sure it’s an early version with chrome bore.
Any input on value?

WWII Japanese Kokura Arsenal Type 99 7.7x58mm caliber bolt action Arisaka rifle. Series 20. Intact Mum. Knurled safety. Serial numbers match on receiver and bolt handle. Bolt stamped "234". Blued finish. Wood stock. Adjustable rear sight. Sling mounts. Cleaning rod. Monopod. Barrel cover. Caliber / Gauge: 7.7x58mm Barrel Length: 26" Serial Number: 63766 Condition: Overall good. Moderate to heavy wear. Bore is fair with moderate wear. Mechanically good.

This is assuming they’ve labeled correctly. This company has mislabeled in the past, to my benefit.

It’s very hard to put a value on a rifle without seeing pictures and/or holding it in my hands. Early Type 99 rifles that are matching with accessories typically top $1k at auctions…again…depending on condition. There are so many variables to determine if a rifle is “correct” when it comes to collector grade rifles.

If you PM me a link, I’ll take a look at it and give you my opinion. I also promise not to bid against you as all my money is going to booze, hotels and food in Aruba! Haha!




---------- Post added at 09:11 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:04 PM ----------

Cool, thanks! I know the Type 38s all used manufacturer codes but I always thought the Type 99s used the serial number system! Love the Caribbean and wish I was there with you!

Only Kokura and TK Type 99 rifles used assembly numbers when switching over from Type 38 rifles. Kokura stopped early Series 20 but TK went longer…not sure why. I’m pretty sure Nagoya ditched assembly numbers on their last few Type 38 rifles and believe all their Type 38 / 44 carbines did not have assembly numbers at all.

I’ll check my books when I get sober and back in the states.