May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/8/2024
Bunji Hamada's pistols are extremely scarce. Originally, Hamada worked in the Hamada Gun Shop, opened by his father in 1895, specializing in sporting arms, and was an active participant in the business; Hamada actually built the first domestically produced superposed Japanese shotgun in 1927, and was using it to bust clays as late as 1981. In 1941, the war effort made it impossible to source raw materials for anything other than military guns, and so Hamada was forced to turn from sporting arms to military production. His first design was in 7.65mm (.32 ACP) and approximately 4500-5000 of them were produced; only 27 have been found, and are all in a fairly narrow 700 gun serial number block. This example is listed by serial number on page 237 of "Japanese Military Cartridge Handguns 1893-1945" by Derby and Brown, as a Type VIII variation, manufactured 1943, no final approval stamp, 6 slide serrations, numbered on the rear grip strap, revised grip panels, no slide serial number recess, revised serial number dies, no slide identification or muzzle crown, and the revised Tokyo plant symbol and disassembly arrow. CONDITION: This is an exemplary example that still remains in original condition, retaining the majority of the fine bluing that Hamada developed as part of his sporting arm business. Most losses are to the slide and grip straps consistent with holster wear and carry, including losses at the cocking serrations commensurate with use. Grip straps are essentially patina with faded traces of bluing at the edges. Grips are very good with some handling marks. Mechanically fine, bore is very good with strong, softened rifling and mild frosting throughout. This is an extremely scarce pistol with excellent condition.