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JAPANESE TYPE 96 DEWAT LMG.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:3,000.00 USD Estimated At:6,000.00 - 9,000.00 USD
JAPANESE TYPE 96 DEWAT LMG.
Cal. 6.5mm. S# 18167. Bbl. 22". Mfg. November, 1944. The Japanese Type 96 was introduced in 1936 intending to replace the Type 11 LMG. The Type 96 deleted the hopper feed mechanism of the Type 11, instead using a top mounted box magazine, very similar in appearance to the British Bren. The Type 96 also deleted the cartridge oiling system on the gun and instead integrated it w/ the mag loader. The bipod was also improved, having a few degrees of swiveling travel, over the prior rigid offerings. Many of the revisions allowed much quicker barrel changes at a weight of 2 pounds lighter than the Type 11. Opposite of the Type 11, which had sights that were offset to the right side, due to the obstructive hopper feed mechanism, the sights on the Type 96 are offset to the left, since the magazine is mounted on top, in the center of the receiver. The ammunition for the Type 96 remained the reduced loaded 6.5mm cartridge. It utilizes a non-reciprocating charging handle on the left side of the receiver to charge the gas operated, open bolt system, retaining an adjustable gas port. The circular cooling fins on the barrel taper in diameter from 1.4" down to just under an inch towards the muzzle. The muzzle is threaded and employed a cone style flash hider. Like its predecessor it has a wooden carry handle mounted forward of the front trunnion. The sights consist of a protected front blade & a windage adjustable rear peep, also adjustable in elevation from 200 to 1500 meters. The shoulder stock is manufactured from a combination of steel & hardwood, incorporating a folding monopod to help steady long shots. It is mounted to the rear of the pistol grip in a much more traditional fashion than the Type 11. Just rear of the front sight is a rear folding bipod w/ 14" legs that has 2 positions for firing extended. Receiver markings include Kokura Arsenal mark, on the right, as well as the serial number, above "19.11" indicating Showa Era Year 19, 11th month, translating to the manufacturing date of November 1944. MAGS: 1 30 rd. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: Photo copied operation manual in Japanese. CONDITION: Finish on exposed metal surfaces is a mix of black to brown, coverage at about 50% w/ scattered patina throughout. It has been dewatted primarily by welding a rod into the chamber of the barrel but were extremely gentle to the interior of the receiver, apparently removing it prior to plugging. Since the Type 96 utilized a quick change barrel, the latch has been welded over the takedown pin. The magazine has succumb to significant corrosion but still locks in the mag well. Wooden furniture looks period correct, w/ several small chips & impressions, retaining structural integrity. Fire control mechanism appears to function correctly when cycled by hand. NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT DEWAT MG REQUIRING BATF TRANSFER BEFORE TAKING POSSESSION. FULLY TRANSFERABLE.(03-1634/JZ). CURIO CLASS III. $6,000-9,000.