Type 97 (Kyuunana-Shiki Jidouho)

History of the Type 97 (Kyuunana-Shiki Jidouho)

The Japanese Empire introduced the Type 97 anti-tank rifle during World War II, featuring a unique 20x124 Type 97 custom round distinct from standard rounds used by other nations. While ambitious, the weapon proved impractical due to its excessive weight, limited battlefield effectiveness, and recoil beyond the capabilities of traditional Japanese soldiers.

Deployed intermittently between 1939 and 1942, the Type 97 initially demonstrated its worth against lighter armored systems but faced challenges with the introduction of heavily armored tanks like the M4 Sherman. Its cumbersome nature, requiring four infantrymen to carry components and two full crews to operate, coupled with difficulties in recoil management, contributed to its decline.

The Type 97's design allowed firing from the shoulders, but this was hazardous for small Japanese soldiers. Despite being classified as semi-automatic, practical challenges, particularly recoil affecting accuracy for subsequent shots, led to its diminishing use by 1942, relegating it to a defensive role.

As USMC tank armor improved, the Type 97's inadequacies, including significant recoil, weight, production risks, and crew requirements, prompted its phased-out replacement by cheaper, mass-produced infantry weapons. Despite its drawbacks, the Type 97 is remembered as a pioneering anti-materiel rifle during World War II, combining powerful 20mm ammunition with a portable system.

Specification

Basics

Years in Service: 1939

Origins: Empire of Japan

Categories: Anti-Tank/Anti-Material Rifle (AMR)

Manufacturer: State Factory - Japan

Carrier: Imperial Japan

Role

Anti-Tank/Anti-Tank/Anti-Material

Designed to engage at long range and defeat armored/enemy tanks.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 2,100 mm (82.68 inches)

Run Length: 1,250 mm (49.21 inches)

Cured weight: 110.23 lbs (50.00 kg)

Action

Semi-automatic: One shot per trigger; self-loading or self-loading action supported by internal mechanisms; stroke management (and initial cocking) typically required by operators; subsequent shots assisted by unlocking/moving bolts.

Gas Power: Proposes a pneumatic system that typically consists of a cylinder and a rear drive piston that directs power to the bolt assembly.

Cartridges and Paper Feeds

Caliber: 20x124mm Type 97

Circle/Feed: 7 rounds vertical detachable magazine

PERFORMANCE

Muzzle Velocity: 2,460 ft/sec (750 m/sec)