Many folks judge the Arisaka by the late Type 99's, but the Type 38's and even the early Type 99's were very well made. I have a Type 38 short rifle (not a carbine) that may have belonged to some elite unit. It is in near new condition and as well made and finished as anything that came out of Oberndorf. It is also very smooth, and has an excellent trigger pull.
Jim
Jim