Developed in the 1930s, the Type 96 was Japan's standard issue light machine gun at the time of the attack on Pearl Harbor, and would continue to be used alongside the 7.7mm Type 99 Machine Gun through the end of the war. Dated 16.8 (August 1941), with the Kokura Arsenal stamp and serial number on the right side of the receiver. With a blade front sight, adjustable rear sight, and a heavily ribbed barrel with a mounted carry handle and a bayonet lug on the gas cylinder. Fitted with a ribbed hardwood pistol grip and buttstock with a smooth buttplate, and a tan canvas sling.

Fine, showing 90% of the refinished blue, with areas of brown patina, covered pitting, and mild wear and handling marks overall. The peep has been broken off of the rear sight. The hardwood shows a number of scuffs and chips, with some cracks present in the buttstock. Mechanically fine. 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.