A free Japanese rifle...

**GIZMO8Z** · 03-07-2013, 01:04 AM

Hi guys,

Excuse my enthusiasm, but I am really excited about this!

With my current job, I have constant interaction with the office of safety and security. We chit-chat a lot and since many of the security guards are ex-police and/or ex-military, the conversation often swings to military history and firearms.

A few weeks ago, a security guard and I got to talking and he mentioned that his father-in-law served in the Pacific. He said that he brought home a "Japanese Garand" and that it was collecting dust in the closet. I asked if he had any plans for the rifle, and the security guard stated that his wife was scared of it and wanted it out of the house. To make a long story short, I expressed my interest in acquiring the rifle and it looks like he is going to give it to me!

Now... I know that the Japanese did try to copy the M1 Garand (Type 4/ Type 5) and that around 100 prototypes were made... With that being said, I am assuming the security guard meant that his father-in-law's rifle was one of the standard service rifles of the Japanese military and NOT the super rare and expensive "Japanese Garand"...

The other night, I asked the security guard more about the rifle, and he said it was a rifle from late in the war when the Japanese were low on metal...

So... I don't really know what I'm going to end up with! A rare "Japanese Garand" would be great... I'd be equally pleased with anything for free! I'm actually hoping it's a last ditch Type 99... I've always wanted to add one of those to my collection.

Anyways! The security guard and I will be meeting up this coming Friday. Stay tuned!

**AZPhil** · 03-07-2013, 01:15 AM

That would be awesome if it was one of the Japanese semi auto's they made!!!!!
I'll be tuning in for sure!!!!!!
Semper Fi
Phil

**ww2relichunter** · 03-07-2013, 01:20 AM

wow cant weight to hear about this one sounds like you made out well

**AmericanKraut** · 03-07-2013, 01:22 AM

Nice man, but when do the rest of us start getting free things? jk

Cant wait to see what you end up with, I hope it is good!

**GIZMO8Z** · 03-07-2013, 01:24 AM

Thanks, gentlemen!

I'll be sure to post photos and information ASAP!

If the rifle ends up being a gem, I'll be sure to at least offer him something! However, there's no chance I'll be able to come close to the $30,000 a REAL Japanese Garand would be worth!

- - Updated - -

by AmericanKraut

Nice man, but when do the rest of us start getting free things? jk

Cant wait to see what you end up with, I hope it is good!

All you have to do is ask, Ben! You'd be surprised what people have in their closets, attics and garages!

**Walkwolf** · 03-07-2013, 02:59 AM

.....And The Hits Just Keep On Comin'.........!

Great news Joe !

**Bill Grist** · 03-07-2013, 03:18 AM

I hope you get a Japanese Type 5 Rifle... BILL

**Moshemotom** · 03-07-2013, 03:19 AM

I'm excited for you! Even if its not the super rare 'Japanese Garand', its still free!

Best of luck
Tom

**GasMasksUK** · 03-07-2013, 01:20 PM

I'm excited to know what is going to turn up too, whatever it turns out to be you certainly can't lose!

Thanks

Danny

**GIZMO8Z** · 03-07-2013, 01:53 PM

Thanks, gentlemen!!

I'll be happy with anything, I just hope it's untouched and hasn't been sporterized. Although, I wouldn't mind a restoration job... I'm trying to meet with the security guard before Friday evening... Maybe I'll end up with the rifle today!!