to my knowlage the last ditch arisakas are exactly what the name suggests, Last ditch effort. Durning the end of the pacific war, the japanese didn't have enough people, or machinary ( i can't remember which) to keep the style of the old type 99's. So instead the cut down on the quality of the gun (i.e bolt action turned from a plum shape into a more door handle look, rough welds are fairly obviuos) things like that. But from what i hear they are still fully functual and if maintained ( like any gun) should be just fine, but if you have any doubts consult a gun smith, or a history buff, they can help fix any problems you might encounter. Hope this helps

-Canuk13