Manufactured circa 1927 and intended for use as a classroom training aid for either the factory or the military. This is one of only five known factory cutaways, and the pistol is referenced in the book "Hand Cannons of Imperial Japan" by Derby, which has a similar example (serial number 2) pictured. Fitted with a standard fixed inverted "V" front and frame notch rear sights. The trigger guard is the earlier small style. The frame, sear bar, sear pivot pin, and trigger guard are all marked "3". Equipped with a cutaway magazine marked "19". Fitted with the early style high groove grips also numbered to the gun.

Very fine. The pistol retains 90% of the slightly faded original blue finish with some minor muzzle wear and brown speckling. The markings are clear. The grips are fine with scattered scratches and dings. Mechanically functions fine, but the breechbolt recoil springs are weak.