The toy guns, made in China and capable of firing real bullets, have now been banned in Japan.
Photo: Japan Today
Japanese authorities have issued an urgent nationwide recall of thousands of claw machine toy guns after discovering that the seemingly harmless plastic items can actually fire real bullets.
On July 20, 2025, Japan Today reported that around 16,000 “Real Gimmick Mini Revolvers”—plastic revolvers meant as novelty prizes in arcade crane games—were found to be capable of discharging live ammunition. The shocking discovery has triggered a swift and serious response from law enforcement agencies across the country.
From toy to potentially deadly weapon
What appeared to be colorful, child-friendly playthings are now being treated as serious threats. According to Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA), the design of these toy guns dangerously mirrors the mechanics of real firearms. Despite their vibrant plastic casing and inclusion of eight soft plastic bullets, the internal components—including a metal hammer and a sturdy plastic barrel—can accommodate and fire small-caliber live rounds.
Authorities say this alarming capability classifies them as illegal weapons under Japan’s Sword and Firearms Control Law, which tightly regulates the possession and distribution of guns and similar items.
Imported from China, Distributed Across Japan
The Real Gimmick Mini Revolver has been imported from China since December 2024 by a Japanese distributor. These items have been sold to at least 78 companies operating in 31 prefectures, mostly for use in popular arcade machines that attract children and teens.
What’s more alarming: the product was marketed toward kids aged 12 and up.
Beyond its firepower, officials warn that the gun’s cheap plastic build could cause it to explode when misused—posing additional danger to users.
More dangerous toys identified
The revolver isn’t the only threat. Japanese authorities have now flagged and recalled 16 different toy gun models, all manufactured in China, that exhibit similar risks. These include toy firearms with realistic metal triggers and barrels capable of chambering real ammunition.
Photos released show some of the recalled items alongside actual ammunition—underscoring just how closely these “toys” mimic functional weapons.
Authorities call for immediate surrender
In light of the situation, the NPA has urged anyone who owns or has won one of these toy guns to immediately surrender them to local police. Failure to do so could lead to legal consequences, particularly if the item is found to be operational or has been modified.
This recall serves as a stark reminder of how toy-like appearances can mask genuine danger. Japanese officials are now working to tighten import screening protocols and are coordinating with international trade authorities to prevent further shipments of hazardous products disguised as children’s toys.
Public safety over profit
The incident has sparked a broader discussion on safety regulations in Japan’s toy industry and the growing need for stricter import controls. Arcade operators, toy vendors, and parents alike are being called upon to stay vigilant and report suspicious items—especially those that seem unusually realistic or mechanical.
As investigations continue, the Japanese government remains firm: No toy should ever put a child’s life at risk.