Manufactured by the Kokura Arsenal and bearing the Showa date of 19.11 (November 1944), this is a fine example of the Japanese Type 99 Machine Gun. Introduced as the Imperial Japanese Army was transitioning to the 7.7mm Arisaka as their chief infantry cartridge, the Type 99 was introduced to replace the 6.5mm Type 96, with a few additional alterations made to improve reliability. Fitted with a fluted barrel, hand-adjustable gas tube with bipod and bayonet lug, and left-offset sights with a windage and elevation adjustable rear peep. The magazine is top loading, with a spring loaded ejection port cover, non-reciprocating bolt handle, and 2-position safety. Fitted with a smooth pistol grip and buttstock with a steel buttplate. Included with the lot is a green canvas sling, 98k-style cleaning kit, and an American-made metal tin. A notation on the ATF forms state that this item was seized in Okinawa. Included with the papers is a copy of a 1946 import form declaring it an Okinawa-seized war trophy and a brief service history of the Marine listed on the import form.

Fair with traces of the original blue finish, showing a mixed brown patina overall. The stock is fair, with the heel broken and repaired. A partial deactivation has been performed, with the breech plugged and the release mechanism welded in place. NOTE: This is a fully automatic firearm, registered with the BATFE as a Class III Weapon, and it is the sole obligation of the bidder to understand and comply with all laws and restrictions which apply in their place of residence. Though currently not functional, it is not considered a "DEWAT" for transfer purposes. Additionally, no assurances or guarantees are made regarding the feasibility, expense, or safety of re-activating this item.