New Nambu M57A
Shin Chuo Kogyo K.K. · Pistol · Discontinued · 1958
Also known as: Nambu M57A, New Nambu Model 57A
Overview
The New Nambu M57A is a Japanese semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, developed by Shin Chuo Kogyo K.K. in the late 1950s. It is a short-recoil, locked-breech design using a modified Browning-type locking system with an underbarrel cam slot, drawing heavily on the layout of the American M1911A1 while firing the smaller 9mm cartridge. Named in honour of pioneering Japanese arms designer Kijiro Nambu, the M57A was intended as a domestic service pistol for the Japan Self-Defence Forces but never entered general service.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 900 g (31.7 oz) |
| Overall Length | 200 mm (7.87") |
| Barrel Length | 117 mm (4.61") |
| Action Type | Short Recoil |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 9x19mm Parabellum · primary · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Magazine Safety
- Features: Single Stack Magazine, Locked Breech, Modified Browning Locking
Variants
- New Nambu M57B - Caliber Variant
- New Nambu M57A1 - Modernized
Production
Production years: 1958-1982
Only small numbers were produced to maintain domestic small-arms manufacturing capability; neither the M57A nor M57B was issued to the JSDF or law enforcement.
Origin
Country of origin: Japan
Designer: Kijiro Nambu
Discontinued: 1982
Notes
Part of a parallel program that also produced the .32 ACP M57B and the .38 Special New Nambu M60 revolver. Although development was completed in 1958, the M57A was not adopted owing to interoperability concerns with US forces stationed in Japan. A modernized M57A1 competed in the 1982 JSDF trials but lost to the SIG Sauer P220.
Background
The 'New Nambu' name pays tribute to Kijiro Nambu, designer of the iconic WWII-era Type 14 Nambu pistol and founder of the firm that became Shin Chuo Kogyo. The M57 program represented Japan's first post-war attempt to field an indigenous service handgun.