What is 10 Second War Stories?

10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

What was the Type 38 Arisaka rifle?

The Type 38 was a long rifle that served as the main weapon for Japanese infantry soldiers for many years. It was designed at the Koishikawa Arsenal to be reliable in many types of weather. Because it was so dependable, it became the most common gun carried by the Japanese army.

When was this rifle first used?

The rifle was first introduced in 1905. It became the standard tool for soldiers during the early part of the 1900s. Its design proved to be so good that it stayed in service for nearly 40 years.

How did soldiers use the Type 38 in war?

Japanese troops used this rifle during World War I when they helped the Allies capture islands in the Pacific. Later, they carried the same weapon across many different battlefields during World War II. It was a very common sight for soldiers fighting in jungles and on islands.

What was one special thing about this rifle?

Soldiers liked it because the metal bolt was very strong and it did not kick hard when fired. Its long barrel helped keep the flash from the end of the gun small and hidden. This long design also helped soldiers shoot accurately at targets that were very far away.

What is the legacy of the Type 38?

Even after newer rifles like the Type 99 were made, the Type 38 stayed in use throughout World War II. Japan did not have enough supplies to give every soldier a new gun, so many kept using the old one. This rifle is remembered today as a sturdy piece of history from the battlefields of the Pacific.

Home Library JapanType 38 Arisaka Rifle

Bolt-action Rifle

Type 38 Arisaka Rifle

A long, smooth-shooting infantry rifle used by Japanese troops in both world wars.

Japan Introduced 1905 Koishikawa ArsenalRole: Infantry rifle

Specifications

Weight

8.7 pounds

Length

50.4 inches

Caliber

6.5x50 mm

Ammunition Capacity

5 rounds

History

The Type 38 rifle was created in the early 1900s and became the main gun for Japanese soldiers for decades. It saw frontline combat in World War I when Japan joined the Allies to capture German-held islands in the Pacific.

Soldiers liked the Type 38 because it had a very strong bolt mechanism and kicked lightly when fired. The barrel was very long, which helped keep muzzle flash low and gave it good accuracy at distance.

Even after the newer Type 99 arrived, Japan did not have enough supplies to replace every rifle. Troops continued to carry the older Type 38 across island battlefields until the end of World War II.