Developed in the 1930s, the Type 97 Tank Machine Gun draws heavy inspiration from the Czech ZB vz.26 machine gun and was introduced as a broad upgrade to the Type 11 Hotchkiss in both reliability and striking power. While capable of being used while dismounted, it was primarily designed with vehicle use in mind, serving in that role through the end of the war. A heavy weapon, the 97 came in at about 24 pounds sans tripod, and the design would be revisited to make the lighter and more mobile Type 99 machine gun. A set of blade front and elevation adjustable peep rear sights are installed on the right side of the weapon, with a mounting point on the left side for a 1.5x optical sight (not included). The right side of the receiver bears the "stacked cannonball" arsenal mark and "14.1" (January 1939) Showa date, with the model markings on top. The barrel is heavily ribbed, with a serrated pistol grip and a hardwood buttstock that can be adjusted for length and swiveled down and forward out of the way of a gunner. One magazine is included.

Fine as deactivated, with 80% of the blue finish, showing areas of brown patina, scattered spotting, bright edge wear, and mild handling marks. The barrel has been welded shut at the breech, and then welded to the receiver just ahead of the takedown collar, with the bolt absent and the gas pistol stuck in the retracted position. The hardwood components show scuffing and mild chips. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478. Further, note that while subjected to mechanical deactivation, the item is still registered as a "live" machine gun, and legally it must be handled as such.