Manufactured in China, factual data about the Sugiura Shiki, or "Type Sugiura," pistol is hard to come by, however it is suggested that they were produced in late-WWII by the Japanese in mainland China and immediately after the Japanese surrender, the Chinese took over and continued to produce these on a limited basis. Most likely the area of manufacture was occupied Manchuria/Manchukuo. Observed examples of the first half of the known serial number range exhibit Japanese markings, while the remaining half exhibited markings used by the Chinese Communists. This pistol has Japanese markings. The overall design resembles Browning's pocket pistols, with straight blowback operation, concealed hammer, and other related features. A total number that were manufactured is unknown with some experts suggesting less than 3,000, and very few have made their way to American shores. Estimates suggest less than 20 are on the private market. A 7.65 mm model resides at the Museum of the Republic of China Ordnance Technology Development Center in Taipei, Taiwan. This pistol is equipped with fixed sights and a serrated oval safety/slide catch. Matching serial numbers appear on the slide, frame and barrel. A set of Japanese nomenclature marks are present on the right side of the frame. These markings are consistent with known examples and are die stamped. The eight round magazine is numbered to match the pistol. The pistol is fitted with a pair of checkered grips.

Fair. Shallow pitting is visible on much of the surface, with a mixed deep brown/gray patina and scattered handling marks. The heavily worn grips are also fair, with some tiny chips and a replaced screw. Mechanically functions, but striker hangs up and is delayed when trigger depressed.