The 14th Year Pistol was designed by Japanese General Kijiro Nambu and was an improved and cheaper to manufacturer version of the 4th Year Pistol. It was adopted by the Imperial Japanese Army in 1925 as the official side-arm and dubbed the Type 14 Pistol. The pistol remained in service throughout WW II and was a favorite trophy among U.S. soldiers.
Sometimes the Nambu Type 14 is incorrectly maligned as a very poor pistol design. On the negative side the Type 14 does shoot a very underpowered 8mm cartridge, has a difficult to reach and operate safety, and if the magazine release becomes dirty it is very difficult to remove the magazine. On the positive side the pistol functions very well, is very accurate, has an excellent and natural point of aim, and has an excellent trigger pull. Over all a strange balance. A fine pistol to collect, but not to carry or use for home defense.
