This Japanese rifle was first adopted for use in 1880 as the Meiji Type 18 single-shot rifle. The 18 referred to the year 18 in the Meiji period, according to the Japanese calendar, and the Type 18 became the standard infantry weapon of the Imperial Japanese Army. The Type 18 was designed by Major Murata Tsuneyoshi and was the first breech loading rifle completely designed and manufactured in Japan. The Type 18 is marked "juu-hachi 18" on the receiver, to indicate it was manufactured in the 18th year of the Japanese calendar, or 1885. The Imperial Stamp is also shown without a strike through it, showing that this rifle was never officially decommissioned. The rifle is 51 inches long overall. Rusting and wear throughout the rifle. Bolt and trigger group still function.