This time, I would also like to introduce the HIKISHOP reproduction of the Type 30 Ammunition Pouch and compare it with the one made by S&Graf. Since this is strictly a comparison between two reproductions, I will limit the discussion to a side-by-side, objective look at their features.
In the photos used in this article, the pouch on the left (or top) is the HIKISHOP version, while the one on the right (or bottom) is the S&Graf version.
When recreating the typical field equipment of a Japanese Army soldier carrying the Type 38 Rifle, you will inevitably need three of the Type 30 Ammunition Pouches—two front pouches and one rear pouch. Among the options that are currently easy to obtain, the two most common reproductions are those made by HIKISHOP and S&Graf.
- HIKISHOP
- Accurately reproduces the type with two center seams on the front pouch.
- Available through HIKISHOP’s online store.
- More expensive than the S&Graf version (partly due to the weak yen).
- S&Graf
- Reproduction of the type with only one center seam on the front pouch, often referred to as the “school training” style.
- S&Graf has physical stores in Tokyo and Osaka, and their items can also be easily purchased online.
- Less expensive than the HIKISHOP version.
To be honest, if you live outside Japan, just go with the HIKISHOP version. The “school training” type was used by students during military drills at school. For that reason, it looks odd to wear a training-type pouch when you’re trying to recreate the appearance of a regular Imperial Japanese Army soldier.
There’s really no reason to choose the lower-accuracy S&Graf version.
Now, let’s move on to the comparison between HIKISHOP and S&Graf ammunition pouches.
We’ll start with the front pouch. The biggest difference is the number of vertical seams in the center.
Next, let’s look at the rear pouch. The rear pouch shows clear differences in the shape of the button stud used to fasten the flap and in the construction of the internal divider. In both aspects, the HIKISHOP version is closer to the authentic specification.
Finally, here is a comparison of the oil can. There are no major differences between the versions.
That concludes the comparison between the HIKISHOP and S&Graf reproductions of the Type 30 Ammunition Pouches.
If price is not a deciding factor, I recommend the HIKISHOP version.
If you aim for a highly accurate reproduction of an Imperial Japanese Army soldier’s equipment, HIKISHOP is definitely the better choice.
