Taking a chance on an Arisaka?

[TheHappyGunner]

Hi guys,

This listing just popped up in my home town for what looks like an early production Arisaka, though I don't know what type.

http://www.armslist.com/posts/23903...s-for-sale--japanese-arisaka-type-99-7-7-cal-

It also appears to have a full length barrel, but a cut-down stock. Could any of you tell me anything more about this rifle based on the posted pictures and whether or not you think this might be a good deal? I don't know much about these rifles but may pick it up for a good price. Thanks.

 

[Steel Horse Rider]

If it is a 7.7 it is a Type 99 which the single vent hole in the reciever confirms. The stock has been chopped and it also appears that the rear sight is missing unless my eyes are getting worse. If the bore is good the price is at the upper end of the range. If you are going to put a scope or another type of rear sight on it and the bore is good it would make a good hunting rifle. I imagine that was the intended purpose.

 

[Ian]

If you're looking specifically for a sporter, and the bore is good, and you can talk the seller down to something like $125, then maybe. Otherwise, I'd pass.

 

[TheHappyGunner]

He lowered the price to $100. I think I may go for it..

 

[tahunua001]

for a hundred that aint bad if all you want is a shooter but if you are planning to restore it that is way too much.

 

[jason41987]

i didnt think arisakas were so inexpensive, i might have to look into them more.. figured theyd be really popular considering nipponophiles (someone who loves japanese culture) are pretty common in todays society and would be willing to buy anything japanese made

 

[Ian]

Original configuration Arisakas are definitely not that inexpensive (much like sporter/non-sporter Enfields).

 

[jason41987]

aah.. i see

so, TheHappyGunner, what are your plans for it? leave it as is.. based a custom rifle off it using its action since its already lost the value, or restore it to its former glory by converting it back to military condition maybe with a new stock?

 

[Roadkill]

They are a very under rated rifle. Ballistics are right up there with 30-06. Have a chrome bolt face and chamber, very solid and strong lock up, and if in good condition surprisingly accurate. I have a couple in military configuration and they are as accurate as the more desired guns of that era. I reload for ithem and shoot then often. Tend to have a short stock though. Commercial ammo is stupid expensive.

 

[TheHappyGunner]

Well, I've decided not to buy it. Even though these are apparently rather inexpensive rifles, I have never seen one in person, let alone for sale. Therefore I had no idea they were inexpensive and thought $100 may be a good deal to restore this. Turns out not so much. Apparently early production models in good shape with intact mums have a hard time selling over $600. So, I may as well hold out and spend my money on a complete specimen if they're usually found between $200-$400.

Besides, I've got another gun that's been on my mind for a couple years..

 

[jason41987]

what other gun has been on your mind?

 

[TheHappyGunner]

A Uberti replica of an 1873 Winchester. I've been waiting for months for the "local" importer to get a new shipment of these rifles as I finally have the cash to buy one.

Soo.. I've got a lot of money burning a hole in my pocket, and I've got a really soft spot for military surplus. But I figure I'd better hold off for what I really want.

 

[jason41987]

ive actually had an uberti replica 1873 in mind for a while too... i decided a while ago id start collecting all my 19th century stuff in 44 caliber.. since its a toggle link that would be .44 special

 

[TheHappyGunner]

I'm more interested in one in .44WCF (.44-40). I plan on shooting some black powder in it and Inhave heard that the bottleneck on the .44WCF is better to seal the chamber. I want something that's fun, drop-dead gorgeous, that I can use for both plinking and maybe a little hunting. Something I can take on every adventure. It may be pathetic but I daydream about it a lot.. and have been for a couple years!