Opportunity to buy a Type 90, 3rd Variation

[964AWACS]

A co-worker wants to sell some items that his father brought back from the Pacific after WWII (no one in the family is interested in keeping them). One of those items is a Navy issue Type 90, 3rd Variation, s/n 9305. Having no experience with Japanese flare guns, I have a couple of questions:

- Several parts (barrel locking lug, opening lever, and lever over the rear of the receiver) are marked with the number "73". Is this an assembly number and not intended to match the serial number?

- What is the function of the lever that extends over the top of the rear of the receiver and how does it operate?

- What would be an approximate value of pistol (VG+ condition) with holster (unmarked black leather with straps and stitching intact in approx. G-VG condition)?

Thanks!
--Rob

[gunnertwo]

You might look at Gunbroker.com and search for Flare Pistols. There have been a few three barrel for sale. If you joined them (cost $1) then you can search for completed sales.

Be sure to post some pics when you can, someone here can probably give an estimate.

G2

[signalman]

Hello, Yes, the 2 digit number is an assembly number.

The lever you talk about is a cocking lever. When pulled back it cocks the pistol. There is a barrel selector at the rear of the housing. Left, Right, and both barrels.

Value with holster in the condition you describe can vary from $800 to $1200

Three barrel versions are also available, and about double the price.

[964AWACS]

Thanks guys - appreciate the help!