Re: US WW1 troops with SMLEs:

Remember that the Brits used a large quantity of type 30 and 38 Arisakas in a training role. The RN also had a few. I doubt that many ever got close to the two-way rifle range. The bayonet for the type 30 was the direct inspiration for the change from the P-03 (a re-hashed P-88) to the P-07, complete with Japanese-styled hooked Quillon.

Likewise, Arisakas acquired by the Russians during the short Russo-Japanese war were supplemented by additional stocks after the two countries "made up". Most are reputed to have been in the hands of garrison troops and training establishments.

However, they were seen in combat in the "Winter Games" between the Soviets and the Finns.

Russianicon designer Federov rightly thought the 6.5 x 50 was a MUCH more suitable cartridge for his "Avtomat" than the hefty 7.62 x 54. His design, in several variants, and of which only a few thousand were made, stayed around in the Soviet system until 1945. So, either the Russians tooled up to make the ammo, or there was quite a bit left over from their early acquisition and use of the Japanese cartridge.

Video here:

Has anyone seen an Arisakaicon with any (genuine) sign of Russian "ownership"?