Manufactured in China, factual data about the Sugiura Shiki, or "Type Sugiura," pistol is hard to come by, however it is suggested that they were produced in late WWII by the Japanese in mainland China and immediately after the Japanese surrender, the Chinese took over and continued to produce these on a limited basis. Most likely the area of manufacture was occupied Manchuria/Manchukuo. Observed examples of the first half of the known serial number range exhibit Japanese markings, while the remaining half exhibited markings used by the Chinese Communists. This pistol has Japanese markings. Both 7.65mm and 6.35mm variants of the pistol was manufactured. The pistols utilized a straight blowback type action with concealed hammer. Disassembling the side arm follows the Browning method of turning the barrel and removing the barrel bushing. A total number that were manufactured is unknown with some experts suggesting less than 3,000, and very few have made their way to American shores. Estimates suggest less than 20 are on the private market. A 7.65 mm model resides at the Museum of the Republic of China Ordnance Technology Development Center in Taipei, Taiwan. This pistol is equipped with fixed sights and a serrated oval safety/slide catch. Matching serial numbers appear on the slide, frame and barrel. A set of Japanese nomenclature marks are present on the right side of the frame. These markings are consistent with known examples and are die stamped. The magazine holds eight rounds. The pistol is fitted with a pair of checkered grips.

Very good, with 40% of the spotty refinished blue finish, most of the surface showing a mixed brown and gray patina, bright wear along the edges, and scattered spotting and pitting. The grips are good, with some dings and scuffs. Some polishing has been performed on the magazine, which shows some bending of the floor plate and numbers for another pistol. The sear disconnector needs adjustment, otherwise mechanically good. A must have for the serious World War II Pacific Theater collector!