Nambu type 14(Deactivated)

Description

The Nambu Type 14 is one of the most recognized firearms from Imperial Japan during WWII. It was a semi-automatic pistol chambered in 8mm Nambu, designed by Kijiro Nambu in the 1920s. The Type 14 became one of the standard-issue pistols for the Japanese military and was used extensively throughout the war. The deactivated version retains its original design and features but has been altered to comply with legal restrictions, rendering it incapable of firing.

Key Features:

• Construction & Materials:
  • The Nambu Type 14 is constructed from steel for the main body, with wooden grips that often feature a textured or checkered pattern for better handling.
  • Deactivated versions of the Nambu Type 14 are made from the same materials but are modified so that no part can function to chamber or fire live ammunition.
• Action & Mechanism:
  • The Nambu Type 14 operates as a semi-automatic pistol, using a short recoil action to cycle the weapon. The deactivated version of this pistol retains the original look and feel but is unable to fire.
  • The slide and trigger mechanism are still present in deactivated versions but are typically blocked or welded to ensure they cannot be used to operate the weapon. The magazine well may also be disabled so it cannot accept live rounds.
• Grip and Handling:
  • The grip is traditionally made of wood or a Bakelite-like material, often featuring a checkered design to enhance grip stability. In the deactivated model, these components are typically intact and show signs of wear from age, adding to the historical authenticity of the piece.
• Barrel:
  • The barrel of the Nambu Type 14 is often permanently blocked or pinned to prevent the weapon from being fired. The barrel is a distinctive part of the pistol and retains its shape for display purposes but is modified to meet deactivation standards.
• Safety and Features:
  • The Type 14 features a thumb safety on the left side of the frame, located near the rear of the slide. This safety mechanism may be functional or locked on a deactivated version, depending on the specifics of the deactivation process.
  • The Type 14 is a single-action pistol, meaning the hammer must be cocked before the weapon can fire. Deactivated models typically have the hammer either locked in place or welded to prevent it from being cocked.
• Markings & Stamps:
  • The Nambu Type 14 is famous for its distinctive markings, including the Nambu logo, serial numbers, and military acceptance stamps (such as the Tokyo Arsenal symbol). These markings are often present on the deactivated version and can be used to verify its authenticity and year of production.
  • The serial number is usually found on the left side of the frame or the barrel and can be used to determine the production date or batch of the pistol.
• Magazine:
  • The Nambu Type 14 typically uses a 8-round magazine. The deactivated version may feature a non-functional magazine that cannot hold live ammunition but may be retained for display or historical accuracy.

Historical Significance:

The Nambu Type 14 was the most common sidearm for the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II, used by officers and soldiers in various units. It was designed as a semi-automatic replacement for older revolvers, and its 8mm cartridge made it a relatively powerful handgun for its time. Despite its widespread use, the Nambu Type 14 has a reputation for being less reliable and less rugged than its contemporaries, like the Colt M1911 or the Luger P08, but it remains an important piece of military history.

• The Nambu Type 14 was produced in large numbers from the 1920s through the end of WWII, and it was issued to officers and other high-ranking personnel throughout the Japanese military. It is often associated with the officers of the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy.

Condition:

• Deactivated Condition: Deactivated Nambu Type 14s are permanently rendered incapable of firing live ammunition. This typically involves modifications like welding shut critical parts (such as the barrel, receiver, and firing pin) and blocking the action to prevent any possibility of reactivation.
  • Deactivated models are often in good condition, with visible signs of wear or aging, including slight rust or patina on the metal parts and fading or scuffing on the wooden grips.
• Aging & Wear: As an original WWII-era firearm, a deactivated Nambu Type 14 may show signs of combat use, such as dings, scratches, and discoloration on the metal parts. The wooden grip may show age and handling wear but often retains its checkered pattern.
• Restoration and Display: While deactivated, the Nambu Type 14 can be restored for display purposes to look as close to its original form as possible. The weapon can be a unique addition to any collection focused on WWII or Japanese militaria.

Uses:

• Collector’s Item: The Nambu Type 14 is a popular collector’s piece for military firearm enthusiasts, especially those focused on Japanese WWII memorabilia. Its iconic design, combined with its historical significance, makes it a valuable item.
• Display and Educational Use: The deactivated version is ideal for military museums, historical displays, or personal collections. It offers valuable insight into Japanese military weaponry and provides a tangible connection to the history of WWII.
• Reenactments: The Nambu Type 14 is used by reenactors to portray Japanese officers during WWII. A deactivated version ensures safety while maintaining historical accuracy in military reenactments and events.

Legal Considerations:

Deactivated firearms must meet the legal deactivation standards set by national laws. In many countries, deactivated guns must undergo specific procedures to prevent them from being reactivated. Buyers and owners should ensure they comply with local firearms laws, especially regarding ownership, sale, and display of deactivated weapons.