Tanegashima Tantutu
(Short Rifle)

Description

Tanegashima Tantutu (pistol) is a Japanese matchlock pistol which was introduced to Japan by the Portuguese during the Sengoku Period (Warring States ~ 1543). Originally called teppó, it was later known by the name Tanegashima. The name originated after the Island of Tanegashima which was governed by 16 year old Tanegashima Tokitaka (1528–1579). The Tanegashima Rifle was purchased, quickly reproduced and sold throughout Japan. Within the first three years of the matchlock being in Japan, the samurai clans either accepted the teppó (rifle) and tantutu (pistol) into their arsenals. Failure to do so meant they were quickly defeated by them.  

By the end of the 16th century Japan had become the largest producer of firearms in the world according to reports. The amount of teppo that have been produced and used in Feudal Japan may have been greatly exaggerated. There remains one clear fact. The Tantutu played a major role in ending the Sengoku era and bringing peace to Japan.

Our Replica Tanegashima Tantutu (pistol) is handmade in Japan using wood for the dai (stock), brass for the jiita (plating) and zinc alloy for the tsutsu (barrel). It has been crafted to look and feel like a real Tanegashima, but also to meet import laws for most countries. It is a non-functional replica. The powder box can be opened, the trigger can be pulled and the hammer will drop. It cannot be made to fire and will be shipped as a “movie prop”. Users can modify it to fire caps and blow smoke only. This pistol cannot be modified to fire or function like a real rifle. This item is for decoration and re-enactment only.

Features:  

• Barrel 39 cm, Handle 27 cm, Overall 67 cm ~ 2.6 lbs.
• Often shipped directly from Japan

Shipped directly from Japan or our New York warehouse. Due to pandemic restrictions please allow Express Mail Service at least 1 to 2 weeks for delivery.

Additional information