Nakata Shōten - Soshu Workshop

LMG Cleaning Kit Pouch

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 interested in Japanese WWII gear or looking to improve your reproduction accuracy, I hope you'll find this useful. The gunner operating the Type 96 or…

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May 24th, 2025

Example of Attire

Medic (Type 98 Summer Tunic / Post-Showa 18)

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 and soldiers of the Medical Department carried bags marked with the Red Cross. The medic's bag was called a Bandage Kit (Hōtai-nō/繃帯嚢), while the medical…

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November 21st, 2024

Clothing / Personal Belongings / Uniforms

Rank insignias and identification Insignias after the Type 98

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 not actually exist. However, in the case of wearing military attire based on older regulations, it is acceptable even if it is after the new…

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November 5th, 2024

Clothing / Field Gears / Weapons

Detailing of the Type 89 Grenade Discharger (Replica) Part 1

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 the time to collect replicas as I'm keen on reproducing them. Ideally, I'd like to acquire authentic ones someday, but for now, I'm sticking with…

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March 2nd, 2024

For Beginners / Weapons

How to Collect Imperial Japanese Army Infantry Equipment (Weapons)

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 the purpose of target shooting or hunting, provided it is within the approved scope of use. In Japan, it is impossible for civilians to possess…

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February 24th, 2024

Clothing / Field Gears / For Beginners / Uniforms

How to Collect Imperial Japanese Army Infantry Equipment (Advanced)

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 may not be readily visible. If you have been able to collect items up to this point, you should be well-equipped to participate in strict…

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December 23rd, 2023

Clothing / Field Gears / For Beginners / Uniforms

How to Collect Imperial Japanese Army Infantry Equipment (Intermediate)

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 the intermediate section, you'll have most of the essential items for a Japanese Army infantryman's basic uniform. Once you can pull off this look, you'll…

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November 30th, 2023