This is a solid representative example of a mid-production WWII Japanese Type 97 sniper rifle as manufactured by the Nagoya Arsenal. The side of the receiver is marked with the Arsenal symbol next to serial number "5182". The top of the receiver is stamped with the intact Chrysanthemum over the various Kana characters for type 97. The side of the receiver is fitted with a scope base for the early pattern smaller 2.5x sniper scope. The top rear scope tube is marked "2.5 X 10/ inverted triangle flanked by TO and KO/No.1676" with "the side of the mount being serial numbered "3524". The rifle has an original matching numbered sniper bolt and matching cocking knob, however it has an unnumbered firing pin. It has unnumbered barrel bands with the lower band machined for the monopod block however it does not include the monopod. It is fitted with the standard ear sight without anti-aircraft wings, graduated 4-22 (400-2200 meters) with the inverted "v" front sight with sight protectors. It is fitted with the one piece, hardwood stock with no drain holes in front of the trigger guard, a flat steel buttplate and the short rear handguard. It comes with an original cleaning rod and leather sling.

Fine with 80% of its original blue finish overall showing edge and high spot wear with some old light touch up blue on top of the receiver rings. The stock and handguards are both in very good condition with numerous heavier pressured dents, dings and scratches from handling over the years. The scope retains 75% of its black finish overall with wear and slightly chipping of the finish overall with slightly more on the rear of the scope tube. The markings are visible but light and the optics are cloudy with a visible reticle. The small spring screw on the side of the base was removed and or buggered up so the scope will not slide completely onto the rifle.