The Nagoya Arsenal Type 14 Nambu is one of the most sought-after early Japanese semi-automatic pistols for collectors and historians. Its place in the development of Japanese service pistols makes any verified 1st-year example particularly significant to a serious collection.

NAGOYA ARSENAL EARLY JAPANESE TYPE 14 NAMBU CHIGUSA BRANCH

Overview and Historical Context

This specific example, Serial No. 1594, was manufactured in December 1927 at the short-lived Chigusa Branch of Nagoya Arsenal. Roughly 1,603 pistols were produced at Chigusa that year—about 0.57% of total Type 14 output—making this an unusually scarce early production piece. The pistol demonstrates the transitional craftsmanship of the earliest Type 14s before production moved to Kokubunji and Toriimatsu.

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Collectors’ Features and Condition

Key identifiers include the early arsenal marking located forward of the date and the unique frame engraving where the year and month are separated by a comma—an exclusive trait of very early Type 14 examples. The finish has thinned to a dark grey patina with light surface oxidation consistent with age; factory blue remains in protected areas. Serial numbers match throughout the firearm, with the magazine approximately 50 numbers out—common in period inventory handling. Grips are in very good condition with light edge wear from handling.

Caliber, Barrel, and Function

Chambered in 8x22mm Nambu with a 4.61″ round barrel, this semi-auto caliber is historically significant and designed for the Type 14’s era of service. The 8x22mm offers manageable recoil, reliable function in original designs, and remains desirable for historical shooting demonstrations and careful range use. The action on this example is reported smooth and functions correctly—important for both display and controlled operational testing.

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Why This Example Matters

For collectors focused on early Japanese WWII arms or Nambu pistols, the NAGOYA ARSENAL EARLY JAPANESE TYPE 14 NAMBU CHIGUSA BRANCH represents a tangible link to initial Type 14 production. Its documented serial 1594, unique date punctuation, and Chigusa provenance make it a strategic acquisition. Check current availability and purchase options on the product page before it moves to another collection.

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