Pics of relic Japanese muzzle cover

Hey folks,

I'm new here. I spend most of my time on the M1 and 1903 board. I'm at Kwajalein Atoll doing some archaeological work on the WWII battlefield.

I did'nt dig this, it was found in fill dirt by someone else and turned in to me. I suspect this is a muzzle cover for a type 38 or Type 99 rifle. I've heard of these, but never seen one in the flesh. It is brass and would probably clean up pretty good.

Can any of you confirm that this is indeed a muzzle cover? Is there any place on it I should clean and look for markings?

I spent all of last week recovering a battlefield burial of a group of Japanese soldiers....at least four differnt individuals.

Thanks!

Yes it is for an early type 38 rifle without the ears on the front sight. It is missing the tab that locks it on. It should be brass and may clean up okay. The only marking you may find is right on the very end it may have an inspection mark otherwise they are unmarked.

Thanks DRB,

When did Japanese change to front sight wings on the Type 38 rifles?

Thanks again