This is an exceptional representative example of a mid-WWII production Japanese type 99 "cutback" sniper fitted with a 2.5x sniper scope. The Type 99 rifle was adopted in 1939 as a replacement for the earlier Type 38 rifles as it fired the larger and heavier 7.7 mm bullet. This series of sniper rifles was produced on a limited basis in the 5000-7500 serial number block. They are very scarce today as most were destroyed or sporterized after the war. They are identified by the sniper scope base fitted the receiver, which has a rear edge that has been cutback 1/4 of an inch so that the Nagoya Arsenal could use up the old style 2.5x sniper scope from the Type 97 production. This was done before they introduced the newly developed 4x sniper scope. The scopes are identified based on the markings found on top of the tube which is marked "2.5 X 10 (degrees) NTC/KOGAKU/99". The chrysanthemum remains on the receiver along with the Kana markings for the Type 99. The rear ring is stamped with the symbol for the Nagoya Army Arsenal over serial number "5268". It is fitted with its original matching bolt assembly numbered on the underside "268" with a matching extractor, firing pin, and safety. It has the standard front and rear sights without anti-aircraft wings. It is fitted with its original hardwood stock and handguard with a non-matching numbered front barrel band, unnumbered middle band, and finger grooves on the sides. The underside of the stock has two Nagoya Army Arsenal inspection marks, that is fitted with a cupped sheet metal buttplate. The scope comes with an original hard canvas scope case that has had the shoulder straps cutoff.

Excellent with 90% of the original blued finish overall with edge and high spot wear with cycling wear on the bolt body. The stock and handguard are both in extremely fine condition showing light handling marks and pressure dents on the sides and underside of the stock. The scope retains 90% of its black painted finish with clear optics with some slight delamination around the reticle. The case is very fine.