But this one I've located has a bit of a twist to it...it's a single shot. Was made that way from git-go. Very few markings on the rifle. A faint (serial?) number of 185 on the receiver and the same number on the stock. Some Japanese cartouche type writing on the stock. Decent 6.5 bore.

Do you suppose this was some kind of a Type I trainer? The stock, sights, and hardware are otherwise very similar to a Type 38. But's it for sure a Caracano action and a single shot at that.

Don't know of a Type 1 but have heard of Type 38, 44 & 99

What calibre is it? This site may help

http://www.radix.net/~bbrown/japanese_markings.html

It's like a 6.5 Model 38 but with a Carcano action, made in Italy. What little I have learned is that there were about 60,000 made for the Japanese Navy 1937-39. But so far the info found on the links I've located (including that one you recommended) is very limited.

Found It:

You have a Type I rifle in 6.5x50 made by the Italians for the Japanese during WW11. Were shipped to Japan by submarine. Some say 66000 some say 12000 made. They were made using Carcano actions and Japanese Arisaka type hardware. They are usually very nice and have tight chambers. They are fairly common and usually sell for around $200 give or take $50. On some the stocks have been cut of about one inch and butt plate put back on. Colors of finish vary. riceone.