#30 • Japanese Edo Period Tanegashima Matchlock Rifle

Part of The Ray Howser Firearms Collection, 1931-2026 (timed auction by Lewis & Grant Auctions)

Starting at $750.00

Status: Available

Live bidding starts Nov 20, 2026 10:00 AM EST

.400 bore diameter, 39.5" tapered octagonal barrel flared at the muzzle, NSN.  Introduced to the Japanese Home Islands by Portuguese adventurers landing at Tanegashima Island in 1543, the matchlock arquebus revolutionized feudal warfare during the Sengoku Jidai (Warring States Period). However, following the unification of Japan under the Tokugawa Shogunate, the country entered the long, peaceful Edo Period (1603–1868). During this era of deliberate isolation (sakoku ), the tanegashima evolved from a mass-produced infantry weapon into a highly personalized status symbol for the Samurai class, primarily utilized for ceremony, target practice (shateki ), hunting, and defensive guard duty. Full stock with brass fittings. Lockplate with raised engraved tree. Silver inlay birds with tall grass. The barrel has some silver work on the top. Blade front sight and raised block rear barrel sight. Overall condition is excellent.