Approximately 14,500 Type 97 sniper rifles were manufactured at the Nagoya Arsenal and 8,000 at Kokura Arsenal between 1938-1943. A scope-equipped variant of the Type 38 service rifle, the Type 97 was one of Imperial Japan's go-to sniper weapons for World War II, and gained great infamy during the "island hopping" campaign in the Pacific. Blade front and folding ladder rear sights. The receiver markings are properly offset to accommodate the scope base, with a crisp Imperial mum above Type 97 markings on top of the receiver ring. The bolt body, firing pin and safety knob are serial numbered "878" one number off the receiver number "1879", likely factory assembled this way. Matching "879" marked on the bottom of the bayonet lug of the front barrel band, and non-matching "473" marked inside the floorplate. The top of the scope tube is marked "2.5X10" above a circled logo and "99.No.3904/JES" and the scope base is numbered "5429" inside. Fitted with a correct mahogany stock. Includes a correct rubberized canvas scope case with leather fittings.

Fine, retains 70% plus original blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance. The stock is also fine and shows numerous dings, scuffs and scratches appropriate for period field use. Mechanically excellent. Scope is very fine with 90% original black painted finish with some minor flaking, and crisp clear optics with a well defined reticle. Scope case is very fine.