This is a Type 89 knee mortar used by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. The Type 89 is a standard infantry mortar designed for close support fire. It features a distinctive padded butt plate for shoulder use rather than knee placement. This weapon was deployed extensively in the Pacific Theater from the late 1930s through the end of the war. The name "Knee Mortar" was given to this piece of equipment by US Troops, who saw the "grounding scoop" and incorrectly inferred that the round plate was for placing on the Japanese soldier's knee as part of the aiming and firing process.  Of course, anybody who did this would have broken their leg!

This specimen is one of the finest I have ever seen.  Almost no signs of surface rust, and retaining even the red coloring inside the aiming groove.  Numbers match, and have been highlighted with white wax, which is a common thing done by old gun collectors.  Canvas spring cover is still intact, and the piece comes in the original carrying bag.  Incredible. Please note: this piece has been deactivated per BATF requirements at the time via a round cutout in the launch tube, rendering this weapon completely inert.  

International shipping IS available, but please ONLY bid on this if you know it's legal to import to your country.