ARISAKA TYPE 38 for Sale
Browse Arisaka Type 38 listings from verified sellers across the U.S. on GunsAmerica.
Quick Look
The Arisaka Type 38 rifle was introduced by the Imperial Japanese Army in 1905 as a standard-issue infantry rifle. Designed for battlefield durability and accuracy, it features a 6.5x50mm chambering and long sight radius. Today, it's popular among collectors for its historical value and robust construction.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Rugged bolt-action design proven in military service
- Chambered in soft-shooting 6.5mm cartridge
- Renowned for battlefield reliability under harsh conditions
- Cult following among collectors of WWII and Japanese firearms
- Strong receiver ideal for customizations and builds
Key Variants
Type 38 Carbine
Shortened version for cavalry and rear-echelon troops; lighter and more maneuverable.
Type 38 Long Rifle
Original full-length model with 31-inch barrel; excellent accuracy for its era.
Type 99
Successor to the Type 38 with 7.7mm chambering; not interchangeable but often cross-compared.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Arisaka Type 38 | Mosin Nagant | Mauser 98 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP (Historic) | Military issue only | Military issue only | Military issue only |
| Capacity | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight | ~9.2 lbs | ~8.8 lbs | ~9.4 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | No (sniper variants exist) | No (optics on sniper models) |
| Trigger Type | Two-stage military | Single-stage military | Two-stage military |
| Notable Pro | Extremely durable action | Widely available surplus | Refined design, great accuracy |
| Notable Con | Limited ammo availability | Rough wartime machining | Higher cost on collector market |
Best Use Cases
- Historical collecting
- Military surplus reenactment
- Gunsmith builds or sporterization
- Long-range iron sight practice
- Curio and Relic acquisitions
FAQs
What is the caliber of the Arisaka Type 38?
The original Arisaka Type 38 is chambered in 6.5x50mmSR Japanese, a relatively mild military cartridge.
Can I find ammunition for the Arisaka Type 38?
6.5x50mm ammo is rare but available from specialty and surplus vendors; reloading is common among owners.
How does the Arisaka Type 38 compare in strength to other bolt actions?
Its receiver is one of the strongest military bolt-action designs, tested to withstand high pressures.
Prefer nearby results? Toggle to search local listings.
Japanese/Arisaka Type 44 Calvary Carbine
$1,699.99
Japanese Arisaka Type 99 7.7 Rifle No Se
$595.00
Japanese Arisaka Type 99 7.7 Rifle Serie
$695.00
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