Koishikawa Arsenal Type 26 Revolver – 9mm Japanese Service Revolver, Refinished, No Front Sight Blade

This Koishikawa Arsenal Type 26 revolver is a classic piece of Japanese military history. Originally adopted in 1893, the Type 26 served through the Russo-Japanese War and well into World War II as the standard sidearm for Imperial Japanese forces. This example has been refinished in a bright nickel-style finish that really highlights the unique top-break profile, shrouded hammer, and distinctive checkered wood grips.

Chambered in 9mm Japanese revolver (commonly referred to as “Type 26 9mm”), the gun uses a six-shot, swing-out cylinder and double-action–only mechanism with a lanyard ring on the butt for retention. The front sight blade is missing, as shown in the photos, so this revolver is better suited for collection, display, or light range use at short distance than for precise target work. The Imperial arsenal markings and kanji remain visible on the frame, making it an appealing acquisition for collectors of Japanese or early 20th-century military sidearms.

Whether you’re rounding out a WWII collection or just love oddball service revolvers, this Type 26 offers a lot of history at an accessible price point—a conversation piece that stands out instantly in any military handgun lineup.

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