April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
A fine representative specimen of the Japanese Type 89 grenade discharger with Nagoya Arsenal markings visible below serial number. Visible numbers are matching. Trigger slot dust cover intact and serviceable. Type 89 grenade discharger was a highly portable and effective weapon utilized by the Japanese in World War II. Americans coined the phrase "Knee Mortar" due to the curved baseplate, however utilizing this weapon against the leg would result in grievous injury to the leg. The Japanese made effective use of this weapon as both in indirect but more often a hasty direct fire weapon. The range is adjustable by turning a knurled adjustment knob at the right side. Many American soldiers wished the United States had provided something similar to them. U.S. soldiers took to using our own 60mm mortar in a like manner. Please note that original inert projectiles will be offered separately in a future Morphy's auction as part of an excellent and exciting offering of the grenade collection of noted cartridge collector William H. Woodin. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is extremely fine original lustrous blue finish throughout, with some high edge wear at the muzzle and sprinkling of on underside of case plate (which nobody ever sees). Bore is very fine, as is face of firing pin head. Mechanics are crisp. A wonderful World War II souvenir in great condition. Suitable for any museum or discerning collector. From the estate of noted cartridge collector and World War II veteran William H. Woodin. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 3 OR 4 AS A DESTRUCTIVE DEVICE.
Item Dimensions: 24" L.