1822

Scarce Japanese Baby Nambu Semi-Automatic Pistol

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,200.00 USD Estimated At:2,250.00 - 3,500.00 USD
Scarce Japanese Baby Nambu Semi-Automatic Pistol
Developed and produced at the same time as the larger Grandpa Nambu (1909-1923). Though never officially adopted, it was recognized as an "authorized" firearm by the Japanese armed forces, particularly for high ranking officers seeking a more compact sidearm. Manufactured at the Tokyo Arsenal in Koishikawa, with the bolt polished and remainder finished in a high quality blue. Fitted with a pair of finely contoured checkered grips and a nickel finished magazine with alloy base. The chamber bears the Tokyo Arsenal markings of the four intertwined cannon balls, and the right side of the receiver is marked with Japanese characters that identify the model above the serial number. It has matching serial numbers on the underside of the bolt, the back side of each grip and the right side of the frame. Only about 5900 examples of these "Baby Nambu" pistols were manufactured before production ceased in 1927, and they are the most scarce and desirable of the standard Japanese semi-automatic pistols.
BBL: 3 1/4 inch round
Stock:
Gauge: 7 mm Nambu
Finish: blue
Grips: hardwood
Serial Number: 3222


Arsenal refurbished, showing 75% of the aforementioned blue, with a mixed gray patina forming on the gripstraps, mild high edge wear, and scattered handling marks and pitting. Grips are very fine, with mild pressure dents. Mechanically excellent.