December 10-13, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/11/2024
Desirable Japanese Type 96 light machine gun as manufactured by Kokura in November, 1941. Receiver number matches lower assembly, and barrel retention latch (note that the Bakelite is intact!), and the other number in evidence is 49099 on barrel (also made in November, 1941), buffer, charging handle, bolt, op rod, and sear safety bar. Gas regulator (98496) does not match either number (obviously the original factory technician got their numbering dies mixed up!), and bipod exhibits only a “4". Accessories include one original 30-round magazine (41595). The Japanese Type 96 machine gun bears a striking resemblance to the ZB26 machine gun. It fires from an open bolt and was an effective full-auto-only automatic rifle with low recoil. With practiced trigger control, the firer can squeeze off individual shots. The adjustable gas port was intended to defeat the problem of fouling, which it did, but soldiers also found that it could adjust the rate of fire. This model was preferred over the Type 11, which required oiling of the cartridges as they passed through the feed hopper. Japanese soldiers even preferred it over the later Type 99 Model due to its lighter recoil and convenience of removing the barrel by way of a lever. Electronic NFA registry indicates “JAPAN” as the manufacturer. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish is near excellent refinish on metal component exclusive of the barrel, which retains original finish. Any perceived shortcoming is mitigated by the slight battle damage to the stock and buttplate on this gun, evidence of genuine combat use. The dent in the buttplate is on the right side, as are what appear to be either bullet or shrapnel strikes to the right side on the stock. This in no way detracts from the serviceability of this stock. Bore is extremely fine with bright lands, getting a little dark in the grooves. Bolt face is very fine. Mechanics are crisp and positive. This is a full-auto-only machine gun. 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 CURIO AND RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2024-12-05.
Accessories
1 magazine total
Caliber/Bore
6.5mm Japanese