Mummy wrapped 'last ditch' Arisaka and bolt.

[HOOKED ON HISTORY]

If I were to purchase it keep it I would have to convince myself that the "mummy wrap" had preserved the piece to a great degree if I was going to pay a premium (over say $200). The phrase "pig in a poke" comes to mind. But I am not one to gamble. There are likely many who would pay a premium for it if the story holds up. Great story, awaiting pictures.

[Anzac15]

I like to consider myself a collector and a shooter, if that's possible. I definitely feel that a great way to participate in history is in fact to fire these great old war horses. And I do have a stable full of rifles that I do and can shoot. I think that this is one that I can afford to put away and preserve. And I think I have just about made up my mind!

[gsimmons]

You'll be sorry if you don't buy it.

[HOOKED ON HISTORY]

And I think I have just about made up my mind!

Pull the trigger (figuratively in this case). This rifle found you,that is probably a hint you were supposed to be the next steward of that piece of history. If you are good with the price I doubt you will regret the purchase. I would love to see some pictures.

[Midmichigun]

Yep... we will be waiting for pics on this one!
Unground Arisaka rifles in my neck of the woods usually go for well over $200, now.... Of course rarity of rifle and condition and location of buyer are all bits to the puzzle. Even if the story is half true, and the rifle is in good shape, you will be fine with the purchase.
As they always say, "Buy the rifle, not the story".
And as another thought, if this legit, you will have something that an advanced collector would desire... and you don't often see.
I would also suggest you go over the "mummy" wrap with a fine tooth comb, and look for any Kanji letters or marks. I can say that I have NEVER seen a mummy wrapped Arisaka. I am also curious on the cloth used to wrap it. This is archaeology at its finest!!

[Anzac15]

I do believe I will be buying this tomorrow. It's been running me crazy ever since I saw it. I will definitely have pics up if I go thru with this. Really appreciate all the input on this.

[Bill Hollinger]

Looking forward to the photos

[vintage hunter]

Sorry but I can't help being skeptical. Theres a couple things that just don't add up to me. If the rifle is completely wrapped how was it determined that it is a last ditch, or even an Arisaka? Also why would the bolt be wrapped seperate from the rest of the rifle? I've never seen a mummy wrapped Arisaka either and before shelling out any big $$ I'd have to be sure exactly whats under that wrapping. JMO

[HOOKED ON HISTORY]

I'd have to be sure exactly whats under that wrapping. JMO

Inquiring minds want to know.

[Anzac15]

Just enough of the buttstock is exposed, you can see the wooden buttplate and the dovetail. The rifle is wrapped very tightly, you can see the outline of the rifle, the sights, etc. It is without a shadow of a doubt a last ditch.