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Jap type 38 stock question

50-70RB50-70RB Member Posts: 706 ✭✭✭
edited February 2009 in Ask the Experts
I have two of these rifles. Both of them, those I've seen at gun shows, those presently on the auction side here, have a crescent shaped cutout of/on the stock about the size of half a nickel next to the receiver ring on the right side. Everything I've ever read and everyone I've asked does/can not explain it's purpose. Since it was done intentionally it must have had a purpose. Does anyone know anything about this? Type 99 rifles do not have this oddity. Thank you.
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Comments

  • FatstratFatstrat Member Posts: 9,147
    edited November -1
    I recall wondering and asking this question many years ago when I first became interested in Arisaka's. The answer given to me was that it provides a point where water and debris can find exit from the inside stock area.
    Just checked my reference book (Military Rifles of Japan by Fred Honeycutt) and found no explaination there.
    For confirmation or a better answer, I would suggest post your question on the Gunboards.com Japanese weapons collectors forum. IMO the most knowledgable forum on the net in this field.
    I'd be interested to hear what they say as well.
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  • jonkjonk Member Posts: 10,121
    edited November -1
    I buy fatsrats explanation, as the earlier type 99s had a hole drilled in the stock for water drainage. Seems a logical progression to me.
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  • 50-70RB50-70RB Member Posts: 706 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    MANY THANKS to both of you.
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