In this post, I’d like to introduce the cleaning kit pouch (teiregu-nō / 手入具嚢) carried by the No.1 gunner—the shooter responsible for the light machine gun—in a light machine gun team equipped with either the Type 96 or Type 99 Light Machine Gun. We’ll take a look at an authentic example of the pouch, a reproduction made by Nakata Shōten, and finally, the process of crafting my own replica based on an original. If you're…
This is an example of the attire worn by Army Medical Department non-commissioned officers and soldiers using the Type 98 Summer Tunic. In this example, the rank is Sergeant, and the individual is wearing the Medical Department identification insignias established in Showa 18. A medic in Type 98 Summer Tunic (front view)A medic in Type 98 Summer Tunic (rear view) As explained in the article on medics wearing the Tropics 2/3 Sleeves Shirt, non-commissioned officers…
This time, I would like to introduce the changes in rank insignias and identification Insignias worn on the Type 98 military uniform established in Showa 13. When aiming to accurately reproduce past military attire, the specific year and month is an important factor. It is crucial to understand when the new regulations were implemented if one is to wear military attire according to the revised standards; otherwise, it may result in a uniform that does…
A grenade discharger (Tekidan-tō/擲弾筒) is a unique light mortar used by the Japanese military. One grenade discharger is operated by a team of three, and a grenade discharger squad consists of three teams totaling nine members, along with a squad leader, making a total of 10 members. Each platoon is organized with one to two grenade discharger squads. The grenade discharger is an infantry's direct support weapon, alongside the light machine gun, so I've taken…
As for the most fundamental military attire for Imperial Japanese Army soldiers, I have explained how to gather infantry equipment. This time, I'd like to provide an explanation about essential weapons indispensable for military attire. In contemporary Japan, it is legally prohibited for civilians, excluding Self-Defense Force personnel and police officers, to possess or carry firearms. However, if one applies and obtains permission from the police, it is possible to possess shotguns or rifles for…
I'd like to explain how to collect the basic infantry equipment for an Imperial Japanese Army soldier. Trying to assemble a complete uniform from the start can be quite challenging. Therefore, I'll provide guidance on what to collect, prioritizing items, over several installments. PriorityStandardBeginnerCollecting a military uniform.IntermediateCollecting official military-issued gears.AdvancedCollecting full kit In this advanced edition, I will introduce items that are not only essential for full kit but also pay attention to details that…
I'd like to explain how to collect the basic infantry equipment for an Imperial Japanese Army soldier. Trying to assemble a complete uniform from the start can be quite challenging. Therefore, I'll provide guidance on what to collect, prioritizing items, over several installments. PriorityStandardBeginnerCollecting a military uniform.IntermediateCollecting official military-issued gears.AdvancedCollecting full kit In this intermediate section, I will introduce the equipment that was left out in the beginner's section due to budget considerations. By completing…