Type 99 Arisaka Go Back to Infantry Rifle Weapon: Type 99 ArisakaType: Infantry RifleCountry of Origin: Japan Year Adopted: 1939Caliber: 7.7 ArisakaAction: Bolt-ActionOverall Length (mm): 1120.0Weight (kg): 3.00Effective Range (m): 500The Type 99 Arisaka was developed in 1939 as a successor to the Type 38 rifle, chambered in the more powerful 7.7x58mm round. It was part of Japan's effort to modernize its infantry weapons in preparation for the Second World War. The rifle was built to be strong and accurate, with many early models featuring a monopod, anti-aircraft sights, and chrome-lined barrels. The Type 99 was adopted as the standard infantry rifle for the Imperial Japanese Army and was used extensively in World War II. Despite being produced in large numbers, wartime pressures led to variations in quality, with later models being simplified and produced under less stringent conditions. Nonetheless, the rifle was considered reliable and robust. Known for its sturdy construction, the Type 99 is regarded as one of the strongest bolt-action rifles of its time. It earned a reputation for durability, although it was somewhat overshadowed by rifles from other major powers due to Japan's strategic situation in the war.Related Weapons: Type 38 Arisaka GalleryRelevant Articles: Japanese Small Arms of World War IIVideos: Japanese Small Arms in World War II: Were They Really The Worst?