Bidspirit auction | Late War Japanese Type 10

Late War Japanese Type 10 Flare Pistol - An Imperial Japanese Army Type 10 Signal Pistol. This 35mm flare pistol is a classic piece of Imperial Japanese militaria, instantly recognizable by its sturdy, single-barrel, break-open design and the grip frames strong resemblance to the Type 26 revolver. The visible markings on the frame—the kanji characters for Ju-nen-shiki, meaning ”Type 10,” and the ”cloverleaf” arsenal stamp (four stacked cannonballs viewed from above)—indicate manufacture at the Kokura Arsenal (which succeeded Tokyo Arsenal in production). The clear serial number 8247 places this pistol towards the very end of the approximately 8,300 total pistols produced, dating it to the late war period (likely 1944-1945). This was a time when manufacturing quality often declined due to wartime pressures, making this a desirable, late-production variant. The piece features a dark, original military finish, which appears to be the more roughly applied, late-war blackened finish, consistent with its serial range. The ribbed hardwood grip panels are a pleasing dark brown and complete. Condition is very good for its age and type. The break-open mechanism and trigger action are functional. Part of the John Bannister Collection. L 8.25”, H 7”, D 1.5”.