In the late '90s I was in Japan and was able to particpate in a used gun sale to American servicemen and DoD civilians on the island of Okinawa. A dealer from mainland Japan brought down approx 100 long guns, 95% of which were shotguns, and about half of those doubles. All were used but most were in excellent shape. Even though I came out poorly in the drawing for the order of purchase, I still walked away with an 80's vintage Miroku O/U trap gun and 70's vintage Nikko O/U for grand total of $332.
What I missed out on was being able to purchase one of the five or 6 SxS in the group. Without knowking any better I would have guessed these were nice vintage brummie boxlocks. I did not recongize any of the names - the one that comes to mind was Kawaguchi. Fit and finish was excellent and it was a 20 gauge to boot. I think it went for $300 or so. I departed the island island before the next sale, but I was left with a high regard for the quality of these gun - wiash I could have picked one up, especially at those prices.
Ken
