This is an example of an pre-WWII 1st Series Japanese Type 44 Cavalry carbine as manufactured at Kokura Arsenal. The top of the receiver has the full intact Royal Chrysanthemum over the Kanji markings for Type 44. The left side of the receiver has the small 1st Series Kana marking next to the serial number (01622), note the zero prefix, next to the four-intertwined cannonballs of the Kokura Arsenal. It is fitted with the standard short shaft rear sight graduated from 5-20 with the inverted "V" front sight. This late production carbine also includes the rare all machined early front sight cover with flip up muzzle cover. It has the correct style polished bolt with the extractor, firing pin also all in the white. It is fitted with the correct stock and front hand guard with the late type three bayonet numbered "622" on the underside of the housing with the latch and button both numbered (374). It is fitted with the correct smooth steel buttplate with the butt trap mechanism, the cleaning rod is absent.

Excellent with 95% of the blue finish, edge and high spot wear and some thinning on the floor plate and trigger guard. The stock and handguard are both in fine condition showing a nice original finish overall with numerous light pressure dents and dings overall with some heavier on the right side of the stock. This rifle has a matching bolt and cocking knob with an unnumbered firing pin and mismatched extractor. A nice late production Japanese Type 44 carbine.