🚀 go-pugleaf

In article <9301122008.AA25957@fajita.saic.com> carl@fajita.saic.com (Carl L. LaFevers 6409) writes:
#
#I have a WWII Japanese rifle, tentatively identified as a Model 99, Bolt
#action, with a fixed magazine.
#I was told it was a 7.7mm.

  The Model 99 Ariska used the 7.7x58 Japanese Ariska round which in
its military load had a 175 gr bullet with a 2400 fps muzzle velocity.
# ...
#Is this a right size?
#Is this a standard cartridge?
#Is it available?

  It sounds right - but it isn't a common caliber.

#Can I get ammo in the  states or do I need to order from Japan?

  I don't know.  Get a copy of the Shotgun News and check all the
ads carefully and then ask the vendors of mil. surplus if they ever
carry this.  The Old Western Scrounger often carries hard to find
calibers.

#Is reloading my only hope?

  If you can find reloadable brass (either as brass or as ammo)
it certainly is an easy way to keep this shooting.

#The rifle is in pretty good condition, does it have any inherent value?
#	(other than being a neat collectable rifle 8-) ).

  Don't know.

#Where can I find information  about this rifle?

  Small Arms of the World by Ezell has a chapter on "Imperial Japanese
World War II Weapons" which briefly mentions the origin and
characteristics of the Type 99.  Cartridges of the World includes
this cartridge.  (*Most* cartridges are included, but not all, as
Alexander E. gently pointed out to me recently. :-)  Sarco, Inc.
carries some parts and cleaning rods.

--henry schaffer