Upotte!! is a slice-of-life and action series whose characters are the personifications of firearms. Upotte!! goes to great lengths to showcase many technical details and historical trivia on the subject, often through the use of cut-in narrated demonstrations to help explain the plot point (or joke) in a given scene. The story begins with a human teacher being transferred to Seishou Academy, entirely oblivious to its purpose as a school for personified firearms. The students are divided by weapon class, with submachine guns being in elementary school, assault rifles and shotguns in middle school, and battle rifles and sniper rifles in high school; most of the faculty are also guns. The main cast features Funco (FNC), Ichiroku (M16A4), Sig (SG 550), and Elle (L85A1), and their many adventures and misadventures.
The following weapons were used in the anime series Upotte!!:
A poster for what is presumably an in-universe spy film is seen in Ichiroku and Elle's room, featuring a pistol of some sort.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingThe movie poster behind Sig, who has no trouble with the cold weather while the other three huddle under the kotatsu (heated table). (Ep.7)
Submachine Guns
Fabrique Nationale P90 TR
An FN P90 TR is seen on a gun rack during a cut-in when Sig bluntly states that she thought the reason Ichiroku was popular was because she's cheap. Interestingly, the P90 is fitted with an adapter to take STANAG magazines, something only compatible with airsoft P90s.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingFabrique Nationale P90 TR - 5.7x28mmError creating thumbnail: File missingA P90 TR on the right, fitted with (airsoft) STANAG mag adapter in place of the original magazine. The main focus of the shot is, of course, an M16A1. English subtitles have been retained. (Ep.4)
Heckler & Koch MP5A2
A Heckler & Koch MP5A2 is seen in the hands of MP, the personification of said SMG. As with all the characters, the full designation is her "full" name ("MP5A2") but she goes by a shorter, more conversational name in virtually all circumstances. MP is one of G3's many younger sisters, as the MP5 is essentially a G3 scaled down to a submachine gun. Due to this, Sig nicknames her Chii3 ("Small3").
An Ingram M-10 is seen in the background when MP explains why M-10 suddenly stopped talking, due to her having an extremely high rate of fire (1090 rounds per minute is mentioned). M-10, who also goes by Ram (from "Ingram"), had been explaining why Gossan ("five-three") is grouped with the SMGs despite using rifle-calibre ammo, as she's the personification of the HK53 (an MP5-sized HK33).
Error creating thumbnail: File missingIngram M-10 - .45 ACPError creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot showcasing much more of the M-10 on-screen at once than is normally seen, as MP gives her explanation; Gossan is the tall girl behind her. Note that the gun's charging handle is erroneously drawn in both positions at once. (Ep.3)
M1928 Thompson
An M1928 Thompson with a drum magazine is held by its personification, Thompson, on the cover of the first volume of Rufuira!!, a doujinshi by the manga's artist; this manga makes a cameo lying on the floor of the human teacher's room. The human teacher's name is never given during the show, and most characters simply refer to him as Genkoku, essentially "Modern Literature (teacher)".
Error creating thumbnail: File missingM1928 Thompson - .45 ACPError creating thumbnail: File missingMs. Thompson showing off a bit more than just her SMG on the cover of the first Rufuira!! volume. The collection of canon manga includes the main series (Upotte!!), Upotte!! Nano, Upotte SISTERS!!, Rufuira!!, and Echiina!!, as well as a few non-canon doujinshi. (Ep.7)
MP 40
An MP 40 is shown during the overview of the history of submachine guns. The narrator also makes reference to the WWI-era MP 18 during this sequence.
A Remington Model 870 is used to demonstrate the difference between a traditional pump-action shotgun with a non-detachable tube magazine, and a self-loading shotgun with detachable box magazines, in this case the Saiga-12. A chibi-form Ichiroku is seen firing one at a chibi Elle, who is portraying a rabbit.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingRemington Model 870 Police Magnum (wood furniture) - 12 gaugeError creating thumbnail: File missingRemington Model 870 Police Magnum (synthetic furniture) - 12 gaugeError creating thumbnail: File missingA hunter shoots fleeing ducks with his Remington 870, somewhere in what appears to be the Pacific Northwest. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA SWAT-style team breaches a room, three of them armed with Model 870s fitted with black furniture. The fourth officer is carrying a Glock pistol and ballistic shield. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA good profile view of the Remington Model 870. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched sequence of a chibi Ichiroku loading and firing an 870 at a chibi Elle. Ichiroku can be seen loading four shells from her eight-shell bandolier, then firing (and missing) all four shells before tossing the gun into the air in frustration. The shotgun is then caught by a chibi Saiga, who transforms it into a Saiga-12K. (Ep.10)
Izhmash Saiga-12K
As mentioned above, Saiga is the personification of the Saiga-12K shotgun. Together with the rest of the Eastern Bloc firearms she attends Akaganekou ("Red Steel High"). Saiga ambushes Ichiroku and Sig during the battle of Atami, and continues to hold a stalemate with copious amounts of buckshot throughout the battle.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingIzhmash Saiga-12K - 12 gaugeError creating thumbnail: File missingAfter Saiga makes her entrance by blasting Ichiroku (destroying one of her magazines), Sig returns the favour with a burst of 5.56mm to Saiga's own mag, the remaining shells falling out the bottom. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSaiga panics, looking at what's left of her shotgun's magazine. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA frustrated Saiga falls back to reload. Ichiroku and Sig then comment on her being a shotgun, with Ichiroku naming Saiga and Sig naming Izhmash. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA close-up of the Saiga-12K as chibi Saiga transforms it from a Remington 870 during the shotgun explanation. Note the curious S/F markings on the selector, not something found on Russian firearms. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingChibi Saiga prepares to open up on chibi Ichiroku with what is evidently anti-clothing-shot, concluding the cut-in explanation. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSaiga loads a fresh 5-round magazine and gives an enthusiastic smirk. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingBlasting away at the stairwell, Saiga continues to keep her enemies' heads down. (Ep.10)
Assault Rifles & Light Machine Guns
AK-47
Two different AK-47 patterns are seen as the narrator (who uses the Russian term Avtomat Kalashnikova) explains the rivalry between the M16 and AK during the Vietnam War, and the reputations both guns earned during that conflict. The first one seen is a final production "Type 3" pattern, the other is an early-pattern "Type 1". It should be noted that the "Type 1/2/3" descriptors are terms created by Western historians to help categorize the three patterns of AK-47, rather than being official Russian terminology.
An RPK light machine gun is used by RPK. Tall, well-built, and always eager for a good fight, RPK makes for a stellar personification of her firearm. Although generally rather trigger happy, RPK also makes use of her rifle's long barrel and bipod to provide some very impressive long-range precision support at the beginning of the battle of Atami.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingRPK - 7.62x39mmError creating thumbnail: File missingRPK fires her LMG in semi-auto from its bipod. Despite being on a rocking boat and several hundred metres away, she achieves exceptionally precise fire. (Ep.9)Error creating thumbnail: File missingThe RPK lies next to its owner as she and her partner slip out of their wetsuits. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAfter running into the main quartet, RPK fires at them while making her escape. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingRPK fires at the glass ceiling of the mall from which Funco had just been sniping. The rifle's bolt can be seen cycling in this shot, and is to the rear here. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingWith three of her unconscious comrades in the background, RPK makes good use of her long 40-round magazine. Perhaps slightly too much use, though she is heard reloading off-screen at one point. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAfter being ordered to reposition and assist Saiga, RPK rips off her mask in frustration and gives Funco a long glare before leaving. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingRPK is briefly seen firing her LMG at Ichiroku, forming a pincer attack. (Ep.10)
AK-74
The leader of the Akaganekou group that instigates the battle of Atami is Nanayon ("seven-four"), personification of the AK-74. Most of the Akaganekou "extras" are also armed with AK-74s, though they should be canonically considered to be using different, similar Eastern Bloc weapons.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingAK-74 - 5.45x39mmError creating thumbnail: File missingNanayon fires her AK-74 from the shadows in semi-auto. The fire selector is correctly set to that position, and the bolt can be seen cycling here. (Ep.9)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot as Nanayon warns civilians about the upcoming battle. Although effectively committing a terrorist attack, she at least has the decency to keep her rifle on safe when out of combat. Like the Saiga, her rifle similarly features "S/A/R" markings instead of cyrillic. (Ep.9)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA trio of Akaganekou students wearing masks fire their AK-74s at Ichiroku and Sig. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingThree more take up defensive positions at the mall, however Funco sees this and opts to take them out from the roof instead of engaging head on. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingNanayon opens fire at Funco in the deserted shopping mall. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFunco clips Nanayon's mask and sends it flying during their duel. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingNanayon shoulders her AK-74 as her face off with Funco nears its end. (Ep.10)
AKS-74U
After Sig's impractical-but-awesome one-handed shooting demonstration, Funco and Sig attempt to persuade Genkoku of its usefulness by claiming it could be used to write messages on the walls of an enemy camp some distance away. The "camp" in question is clearly set somewhere in the Middle East, and two of the three fighters there are armed with rifles. Given the setting/theme these are most likely Kalashnikov-pattern rifles, and the one with a visible muzzle appears to best match the AKS-74U.
A poster showcasing a disassembled Bushmaster ACR is seen in Curly's shop. The rifle is fitted with a non-standard stock (its proper stock is seen elsewhere on the poster) as well as some other parts on the poster not being for the ACR, such as the GL1 grenade launcher for the F2000. This seems to be explained by the Japanese text describing custom parts and fitment work.
A CETME Modelo L is used by Modelo, seen in the jungle tournament. One is also featured on the sign for Curly's gun shop, as well as on a rack in the shop itself.
A ST Kinetics SAR 21 is used by Sar. Like Aug, she wears glasses presumably to represent the SAR 21's built-in optic. One is also seen in Curly's shop.
Shortly after arriving at Seishou Academy, Headmaster Springfield takes Genkoku on a tour of the school, including its firing range. In addition to the named characters present, five "extras" are seen in the background as well, four of whom have rifles that are just barely seen well enough to be identified. One of them appears to be a Daewoo K2.
An Enfield EM-2 is shown during the explanation of the history of the L85. The narrator opens by mentioning that the British started work on intermediate cartridges and bullpup rifles in the 1940s, while certain relevant cartridges from the era appear on screen, including .276 Pedersen, 6.5x52mm Carcano, and 6.5x50mmSR Arisaka. The EM-2 ultimately was adopted by the British military... but that decision was almost instantly overturned by a new incoming government, under pressure from the Americans who were insisting on adopting 7.62x51mm as the new NATO standard. As a result, the British ultimately adopted the inch-pattern FAL as the L1.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingEnfield EM-2 - .280 BritishError creating thumbnail: File missingAn EM-2 atop the Union Jack, complete with its integral optic. The cartridge is listed as a strange "7.42x53mm" which is close to .280 British, but not quite. This may have been a typo from attempting to rewrite "7.62x51mm" into "7x43mm", the proper metric designation. (Ep.3)
Enfield XL64E5
The Enfield XL64E5 is briefly seen near the end of the L85 history cut-in, shown just before the L85 itself is revealed.
Elle, from the "L" in her name, is the personification of the L85A1. She is specifically the L85A1 and not the much-improved L85A2, and as such suffers from constant breakages and unreliability, having a generally quiet demeanour, though she always tries her best. Elle is also Ichiroku's roommate.
A Colt Canada L119A1 is seen in the hands of a Special Air Service soldier during an overview of the history of the L85 and its various problems, noting that the SAS opted to adopt an M16-based rifle instead. The Canadian C8 is essentially a development of the Colt Model 653, with the C8A1 introducing a flattop upper, and the later C8SFW featuring a slightly longer heavy barrel. The C8SFW was adopted by the British as the L119A1, and the one seen here is equipped with an EOTech holographic sight and magnifier.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingColt Canada C8SFW with EOTech sight - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingAn SAS soldier with his L119A1, though the receiver is drawn to a slightly odd scale. The distinctive slim handguard and older-pattern stock from the Model 653 are clearly visible here; this pattern continued to be standard for the C8/C7 series, unlike their American cousins. (Ep.3)
FARA 83
The FARA 83 makes its media debut in the hands of Fara, seen during the jungle tournament. The FARA 83 notably doesn't appear in Curly's shop, the position on the gun rack it was likely intended to occupy instead featuring a custom M16.
Funco is the personification of the FN FNC, and main protagonist of the series. Meeting Genkoku by chance during a festival, through an honest accident he discovers that she wears a thong, a trait shared by all personifications of rifles with (folding) skeleton stocks. Forgetting her actual name, he lets "girl with the thong" slip out a few times, usually ending up in the hospital as a result. Funco's FNC notably lacks a bayonet lug, a feature usually associated with the semi-auto civilian model, though she is otherwise in line with the standard original-production military pattern. That the FNC was directly responsible for the Belgian SS109 cartridge being adopted as 5.56mm NATO is a fact noted in the show. A replica (presumably airsoft) FNC appears during the climactic battle, serving as a distraction.
The FNC's predecessor and Funco's direct older sister, the CAL, is also mentioned, though neither she nor her rifle are actually seen; Cal is Sig's roommate.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingFabrique Nationale FNC - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingFunco's mid-episode artwork, her rifle's stats on display. (Ep.1)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFolding the stock on her FNC as Ichihachi does the same on her own AR-18, the duo prep for mobile combat. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSneaking through the tall grass, Funco unfolds her rifle's stock and takes aim at her target. Clever girl. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFunco blind fires her FNC at Sako during the semi-finals of the jungle tournament. The rifle's gas regulator, positioned up top between the receiver and handguard, is in the adverse position (to the right), something depicted consistently throughout the series. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot of Funco, barrel smoking after skipping bullets on the water under a low bridge to hit Galil on the far side of the lake. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFunco pulls the FNC's charging handle after Genkoku accidentally makes reference to her thong again. (Ep.7)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAn excellent shot of Funco firing her FNC in the streets of Atami. The FNC's bolt is fully to the rear here, showcasing how the dust cover pivots on two points, keeping it as closed as possible at all times. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAnother angle of the same engagement, as Funco covers Elle. Here the bolt can be seen halfway to the rear, this time with the front portion of the dust cover being raised by the charging handle. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA close-up of the FNC's four-position fire selector as Funco switches to full-auto during her fight with RPK. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingNanayon moves closer to Funco during their standoff in the ruined mall. (Ep.10)
GIAT FA-MAS G1
A FA-MAS G1 is seen alongside an AUG during the history of the L85, listing both as examples of bullpup rifle designs adopted before the L85. The show uses the less common but more technically correct spelling of "FA-MAS", with the dash separating "Fusil d’Assaut" from "Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne"; this is how the rifle's markings are actually written. Another FA-MAS is seen in the hands of a Seishou student at the firing range, though she is not the canonical Upotte!! FA-MAS who appears in the manga after the events of the anime. The canon Famas has long reddish-blond "drill"-style hair, does not attend Seishou, and is the F1 variant.
A Heckler & Koch HK33E is used by HK33E, who unlike basically everyone else goes by her full designation rather than a nickname. Being the oft-forgotten middle child between the G3 and MP5, HK33E has a fairly strong inferiority complex, which likely contributes to her dislike of nicknames. Despite this, or rather because of this, Sig nicknames her Chuu3 ("Mid3") much to her annoyance. Ichihachi later nicknames her Mimi, an alternate reading of the two threes in her designation; she is less averse to this name, and the two eventually become friends.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingHeckler & Koch HK33E - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingQuick to anger, HK33E whips out her rifle upon being called Chuu3, turning to leave as Funco arrives. Funco then asks who that was, prompting to Sig to call her Chuu3 again within earshot... (Ep.9)Error creating thumbnail: File missing...resulting in HK33E putting a bullet through Sig's copy of Wilhelm Tell, in this glorious stitched shot. (Ep.9)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAble to pull her rifle out of thin air (as they all are), she conjures her HK33 again a short time later, annoyed by Sig's ventriloquism done at her expense. (Ep.9)Error creating thumbnail: File missingHK33E draws her rifle in the bath later that evening, first when Sig once again calls her Chuu3, then almost immediately afterwards when Ichiroku jumps into the bath and messes up her hair. (Ep.9)
Heckler & Koch G36V
A Heckler & Koch G36V, identifiable by its lack of dual optics, is seen in Curly's shop.
One of the Seishou students at the range has what appears to be a Heckler & Koch HK416. The rifle of the student between HK416 and K2, who is entirely hidden behind Genkoku, has its barrel just barely visible above the HK416's buffer tube, and it can be seen recoiling when firing along with a puff of muzzle flash. That rifle cannot possibly be identified beyond "has a reasonably long, fairly featureless barrel", but it is present.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingHeckler & Koch HK416 - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingThe student with her head partially obscured by Genkoku fires her HK416; its distinctive rail system and diopter sights match, as do the brass deflector and forward assist. Also (barely) visible is a couple rows of pixels of the barrel of the centre student's rifle, above the HK416's stock. (Ep.1)
Howa AR-18
A Howa AR-18 is the rifle of Ichihachi ("one-eight"), Ichiroku's cousin and Funco's roommate. Originally developed by ArmaLite, the AR-18 was also produced under licence by Howa in Japan and Sterling in England. Interestingly, Ichihachi being "born" in Japan makes her the closest thing to a Japanese character in the show, though she's still considered to be American.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingArmaLite AR-18 - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingA good look at the AR-18's ejection port and charging handle, furthest from the camera; the AUG's short barrel can also be seen. There is a slight continuity error here, as the T91 should be visible between the AUG and L85. (Ep.1)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchihachi folds her AR-18's stock at the start of the first match of the jungle tournament. The AR-18 having a fairly loose stock is represented by Ichihachi's pants being loose. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingGalil and Sako face off with Ichihachi and Funco before their match, giving a good look at the AR-18. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot of Ichihachi preparing to cross the bridge that divides the match's stage in half. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchihachi opens up with her AR-18 after Sako engages Funco. The rifle's charging handle can be seen cycling in this sequence. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingUnder cover from Funco's supporting fire, Ichihachi races up the bridge to get a better angle on Sako. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA single shot rings out from the far side of the lake, as Galil knocks Ichihachi out of the match. (Ep.5)
Howa Type 89-F
A Howa Type 89-F is seen on a rack when Sig claims that Ichiroku is cheap. What appears to be another Type 89-F is seen on a film poster in Funco and Ichihachi's room, which is very fitting as the Type 89 is a direct development of the AR-18, designed by Howa from their experience producing AR-18s.
Personification of the IMI Galil AR, Galil serves as Sako's right hand until after the tournament, where it's revealed that they could not possibly be more different in personality. Laid back and energetic, Galil becomes fast friends with Ichihachi, and later Mimi. Despite lacking the bipod (and therefore bottle opener) of the otherwise-identical Galil ARM variant she is seen attempting to open a bottle with her teeth, prompting a worried Ichihachi to give her a proper bottle opener instead, saying that doing that will damage her feed lips. This is a reference to a bottle opener specifically being designed into the Galil ARM, as Israeli soldiers had a notorious habit of damaging the feed lips on their Uzi magazines.
The original-pattern M16 is seen during the history of the L85. The narrator mentions that after the Americans pressured NATO into adopting 7.62x51mm as the new standard, putting an end to many domestic projects like the British EM-2, the narrator then immediately follows up by noting that not too long after this the Americans turned around and adopted an intermediate cartridge anyway, with the M16. An M16 is also seen during the summary of its involvement in the Vietnam War, featuring a detailed blueprint-style drawing in the background.
The M16A1 makes several appearances during technical and historical cut-ins, including during an explanation of three-round burst mode, the overview of its role in the Vietnam War, and when Ichiroku has a brief flashback to that time in her life.
An M16A3, the rare full-auto version of the A2, is also seen in the lineup of M16 variants. This marks one of exceptionally few times a "true" M16A3 appears in media, as opposed to the auto-converted A2s seen in most live action productions.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingThe M16 family, this time with English subtitles left on for the descriptions of each variant. The M16A4 here is fitted with a Knight's Armament M5 rail system, standard for US military M16A4s. (Ep.4)
M16A4
At the end of this list of M16 variants is the M16A4, personified by Ichiroku ("one-six"). With high enthusiasm tempered by low stamina (being restricted to burst mode), Ichiroku is tomboyish and a natural leader. Due to the M16's fame and popularity, she also does modelling work. During the jungle tournament Ichiroku mistakenly eats an especially spicy chicken nugget that Funco accidentally made with chili pepper instead of paprika, causing her stomach to act up. This serves as a representation of the bad gunpowder infamously used in the M16 in Vietnam, which was largely responsible (along with other factors) for its notoriously bad reliability. As a result, Ichiroku's rifle quickly fouls up during the match, forcing her to operate the forward assist after every shot. A narrated cut-in explaining the rifle's direct impingement system refers to it as the "Ljungman system", referencing the Swedish ag m/42, an early example of a rifle using this system.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingM16A4 - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingA close-up of the M16A4's receiver as the gun ejects a spent case. Ichiroku is firing in semi-auto, and the selector is correctly in that position. (Ep.1)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAn M16A4 fitted with an M5 rail system, suppressor, laser designator, foregrip/flashlight combo, rail covers, Aimpoint red dot sight, magnifier, backup rear sight, and spare magazine holder, showcasing the rifle's modularity. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot of Ichiroku aiming her rifle, about to win her first match outnumbered two-to-one. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchiroku field strips her rifle to clean it, shown in elaborate detail. She first separates the upper and lower receivers, slides out the bolt carrier, then removes the charging handle. After this she removes the bolt from the bolt carrier, then drops out the firing pin. That last step is seen in this screenshot, firing pin falling into her hand. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchiroku's rifle suffers a failure to feed due to severe fouling. Also seen here is a Trijicon ACOG fitted with a Docter red dot and killflash, which Ichiroku uses during the tournament. A notable goof is the first-person view through the scope depicts it as a simple red dot sight. This was most likely a miscommunication between animators/writers, as Ichiroku was indeed looking at red dot sights before the tournament. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchiroku works the M16A4's forward assist, complaining that she's not supposed to be a bolt action. She later uses the rifle one-handed while rapidly working the forward assist with the other, a technique Professor Garand compares to fanning a revolver. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchiroku posing with her rifle in mid-episode artwork. (Ep.6)Error creating thumbnail: File missingThe main characters fire their rifles together at RPK's getaway car. The M16A4 is correctly depicted as firing three-round bursts while the others fire full-auto. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIchiroku looks at the mangled remains of one of her magazines, shredded by buckshot. She replaces it with a fresh mag pulled from under her shirt. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingEmbodying the phrase "that escalated quickly", Ichiroku goes directly from trying to catch fish with her bare hands... to trying to blast them out of the water with her M16, spamming multiple bursts into the water. Ichiroku's rifle is the only firearm seen this episode, an epilogue mostly featuring the main quartet going on a camping trip and relaxing in an outdoor hotspring. (Ep.11)
Golgo 13's custom M16
The customized M16 from the Golgo 13 manga, used by its titular character makes a cameo appearance in Curly's shop. Airsoft manufacturer Tokyo Marui made a limited production run replica of this custom M16, which is likely what was used for reference. The rifle is an M16A2 fitted with a flattop upper reciever; while this setup also describes the M16A4, this rifle specifically started out as an A2 and had its upper receiver replaced, and as such retains A2 markings on its lower receiver. It is also fitted with what appears to be an HK claw mount fitted to a picatinny rail adapter, essentially making it an overly-complex riser for the large scope mounted atop. It also features a custom cheek riser, something necessary for such a high-mounted scope, a cut-down carry handle as a rear ironsight, and uses 20-round mags.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingTokyo Marui "M16 Golgo 13 Custom" - 6mm BBError creating thumbnail: File missingA SAR 21, custom M16, Modelo L, T91, SR 88A, and AUG A1 seen in great detail, in this stitched image. Given the other five rifles present, a FARA 83 was likely intended to fill the spot that was ultimately given to the custom M16. (Ep.4)
Colt Model 653
A Colt Model 653 with a 16-inch barrel is seen during the history of the M16, shown as an example of one of the M16's many derivatives.
A customized M4A1 is seen during a summary of why weight is an important factor.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingColt M4A1 with Knight's Armament M4 rail system, Aimpoint CompM2 optic, foregrip, and rail covers - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingA soldier holding an M4A1 on the left, fitted with an aftermarket rail system and stock, an Aimpoint red dot, suppressor, foregrip, and flashlight. (Ep.4)
Norinco Type 86S
A full-auto-capable Norinco Type 86S appears in the hands of its personification, a member of the Akaganekou faction. She is credited as 86式自動步槍 (86 shì zìdòng bùqiāng / Type 86 automatic rifle) in both the anime and manga, the rifle's full Chinese designation but with the "S" omitted. The "S" suffix on Norinco designations denotes semi-auto-only rifles (for example the semi-auto Type 84S and its full-auto sibling, the Type 84), and as such the rifle's full-auto capability paired with the consistent, deliberate omission of the "S" implies that within the Upotte!! universe Norinco developed a full-auto variant of the Type 86S, naturally named Type 86. She isn't known to have a more "conversational" name, but in the interest of simplicity and clarity this page will refer to her as 86; whether this is pronounced in Chinese, Japanese, or English is left up to the reader.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingNorinco Type 86S with sling and bayonet - 7.62x39mmError creating thumbnail: File missingThe Type 86 illuminated by its own muzzle flash, as 86 ambushes Elle. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA smug 86 approaches a helpless Elle, giving a good look at the right side of her rifle. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAfter Funco bails Elle out of the previous situation, 86 continues searching for Elle in the empty streets of Atami. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA good close-up, showing that the Type 86 has a straight charging handle (as opposed to the curved variant). 86 is holding her rifle left-handed as she turns right-hand corners. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingElle baits 86 into chasing her, under the impression she's lacking a magazine. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missing86 lies unconscious next to her rifle, outplayed by Elle. This is a good example of how the characters aren't truly human (a fact brought up in dialogue several times), with 86 taking four bullets to the chest and merely being knocked out. Another example from the same episode is an overheating Funco pouring water onto herself to cool off... with the water instantly boiling and vaporizing on contact with her skin. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingRecovered, 86 stands with the rest of Nanayon's group, including Saiga and RPK. (Ep.10)
Norinco QBZ-97
A Norinco QBZ-97, the 5.56mm export variant of the QBZ-95, is used by a Seishou student at the firing range. This is consistent with other Eastern rifles' NATO export variants attending the Western-themed Seishou, such as Sako.
The exceptionally rare 5.56mm export variant of the Sako RK 95 TP is personified by Sako. Domineering and sadistic, newly-transferred Sako attempts to bully her way through the jungle war games tournament with the apparent goal of taking over Seishou Academy.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingSako RK 95 TP - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingSako holding her RK 95, taking cover behind a tree as Funco provides fire support for Ichihachi. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAfter temporarily blinding Funco by deliberately using poor-quality bullets whose jackets splinter into fragments on impact, Sako fires repeated shots into Funco's gut, even after the match-ending horn sounds. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingHer RK 95 now fitted with an unidentified scope, Sako searches for Ichiroku and Elle in the finals. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSako aims at the spectator platform, occupied by Ichihachi, Funco, Sig, IMBEL MD (brown hair and freckles), and C7 (short dark brown hair and glasses). The latter two faced Sako and Galil in the quarter-finals, though their rifles are never seen on-screen. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched image of Sako aiming her RK 95 TP, giving a good look at the nearly-straight 5.56mm magazine, as opposed to the much more prominent curve of a 7.62mm AK mag. (Ep.6)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAn excellent close-up of the RK 95 ejecting a spent case as Sako opens fire on Ichiroku, whom she had thought already defeated. (Ep.6)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAn outraged Sako refuses to accept having been bested by clever tactics and good teamwork, essentially challenging Ichiroku to "1v1 me bro" during her rant. (Ep.6)
SIG SG 550
Sig is the personification of the SIG SG 550. Smart yet somewhat of an airhead, Sig is a superb marksman, able to hold her own against the battle rifle characters at longer ranges. She is noted to use the Swiss GP 90 cartridge, a domestic version of 5.56mm NATO. While safely interchangeable with standard 5.56mm (Belgian SS109), the GP 90 cartridge features a notably heavier bullet for better performance at longer ranges, and as such is intended to be used with a different rifling twist rate. The SG 550 comes in two externally identical variants, the (domestic) SG 550-1 with a 1:10 twist rate for the GP 90 cartridge, and the (export) SG 550-2 with a 1:7 twist rate for standard 5.56mm. As such, Sig is specifically the SG 550-1 variant. Her rifle is often seen equipped with its proprietary Hensoldt ZF 6×42 BL scope.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingSIG SG 550 - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingSIG SG 550 with Hensoldt ZF 6×42 BL - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingSig at the range while Ichiroku performs a mag change in the next lane. (Ep.1)Error creating thumbnail: File missingRifle now equipped with its ZF 6×42 BL scope, Sig has no trouble consistently hitting a 500m target, in this stitched image. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot of Sig resting with her rifle after a long and thoroughly enjoyable sniping duel with G3. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAn exceptionally dramatic shot of Sig firing her SG 550 one-handed and sideways, using its recoil to decapitate a whole row of targets. (Ep.3)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA tediously stitched image of Sig posing with her rifle in the Alps, fitted with its Hensoldt scope and a pair of 20-round magazines clipped together. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA close-up of the SG 550's four-position fire selector, currently set to semi-auto, as Sig faces off with Sako outside Curly's shop. Sako notes to herself that the transparent magazine appears to be empty, but also that she could still have at least a couple rounds loaded at the top of the mag and in the chamber. It's never revealed whether or not Sig was bluffing. (Ep.4)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSig's mid-episode artwork, her SG 550 sporting its ZF 6×42 BL and currently set to safe. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSkeleton stock pressed firmly into her shoulder and integral bipod deployed, Sig makes use of G3's secret recoil reduction technique after receiving an unwelcome high-velocity haircut from Sako, in a stitched image. Sig keeps her hair short for the remainder of the season. (Ep.6)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSig returns fire in Saiga's direction after being ambushed, her rifle now set to full-auto. (Ep.10)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSig and Ichiroku attempt to hold their position, under fire from two directions at once. (Ep.10)
SIG SG 552
A SIG SG 552 is briefly seen when Ichihachi notes that Sig is frequently featured in movies, prompting Sig to complain that she's referencing the wrong model.
The Steyr AUG A1 is personified by Aug. She often switches between two different barrel lengths, represented by her natural long hair (508mm standard barrel) or a short-haired wig (350mm compact barrel), with the former bringing out her more aggressive and enthusiastic "true" personality, while the wig suppress this and makes her notably quiet and shy. She is also able to equip the extended 621mm AUG HBAR barrel, at which point her personality is said to become incredibly overbearing. Tei and the narrator use the English loanword "heavy barrel" (not used for her standard/long barrel) and the narrator further makes reference to this allowing the AUG to become a light machine gun, however the visual mistakenly depicts the AUG with its standard/long barrel instead of the HBAR's longer barrel and integrated bipod. Aug also wears glasses, which (as with Sar) likely represent the rifle's built-in optic. An AUG A1 is also seen in Curly's shop.
The T91 appears in the hands of Tei, nicknamed "fountain head" by Ichiroku due to her six ponytails; her hairstyle may be a reference to the logo of the 205th Arsenal, the rifle's manufacturer. The T91's collapsible stock is drawn attention to in parallel with the AUG's interchangeable barrels, highlighting the two characters' adaptability. Having an adjustable-length stock also comes with the side effect of Tei having adjustable-length panties (tied on the sides like a bikini bottom). Just before her rifle starts jamming Ichiroku manages to hit the T91's stock, damaging it and knocking it off the rifle, which also causes Tei to lose her panties in the process. A T91 is present in Curly's shop as well.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingT91 - 5.56x45mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched shot of Tei posing with her T91, demonstrating its telescopic stock. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingThe T91's bolt cycles, shown in such great detail that the firing pin hole in the bolt face is visible. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingTei collapses the rifle's stock as she prepares to advance, which she does by actually using the carry handle for its intended purpose. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingTei fires her T91 at the large tree behind which Ichiroku is taking cover, in this stitched shot. Tei and Aug were slated to face Sig and Cal in the quarter-finals, however with Cal not feeling up to participating Sig opted to sit out the tournament as well, giving Tei and Aug the win by default. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA bullet from Ichiroku's M16A4 clips the T91's stock catch, breaking it off and allowing the stock to slide off the buffer tube. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingThe now-commando Tei gives Aug a thumbs up as the duo prepare to rush Ichiroku's position. (Ep.5)Error creating thumbnail: File missingIn a stitched shot, Tei lies next to her stockless T91 after she and Aug were taken out nearly simultaneously by Ichiroku preempting their assault, leaping from cover while fanning her malfunctioning M16's forward assist like a revolver. (Ep.5)
wz. 88 Tantal
A wz. 88 Tantal, the Polish equivalent to (but not copy of) the AK-74, is wielded by an Akaganekou student during the shootout in Atami. This rifle serves as a stellar example of the sort of "similar but different" rifles that the rest of the Akaganekou "extras" should canonically be wielding, instead of standard AK-74s. The character's name is never given, but she presumably goes by Tantal.
G3 is the physical embodiment of the Heckler & Koch G3A3, and unsurprisingly has numerous sisters (G3-based roller-delayed rifles) and cousins (other HK rifles). The rest of the HK family within Upotte!! consists of HK33E, G41, and G36 in middle school, HK53, MP5A2, MP5SD, MP5K, UMP, and MP7A1 in elementary school, and the elusive HK32 (an HK33 in 7.62x39mm) who attends Akaganekou due to her cartridge. All except G36 and HK32 live together in the same dorm, with (alongside G3 and MP) UMP, MP5K, and MP7A1 being seen and the remaining four being heard off-screen in the epilogue episode. G3 has modified her rifle by replacing the standard diopter rear sight with the aperture rear sight from the HK21, claiming she wants to be able to aim at targets out to 1000m away, though when pressed she admits her eyesight isn't actually good enough to make use of this. As such, when in longer range engagements she equips a Tasco Titan 3-12×52 scope fitted to an HK claw mount; its markings are legible in the manga.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingHeckler & Koch G3A3 - 7.62x51mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingMid-episode artwork of the battle rifle trio. Most of the stats are correct, with the notable exception of the G3A3 and FAL being listed as having collapsible/folding stocks, which would be the G3A4 and one of numerous folding stock FAL variants. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingG3 aiming at Funco from an upper floor during their friendly match. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingTaking precision fire from an exceptionally long distance, G3 hastily moves to take cover as Sig joins the fight. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAn excellent view of the G3A3 in this stitched shot, including its HK21 rear sight and Titan scope, as G3 gets excited for what's now become a sniping duel. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingG3 uses her scope to search for Sig all the way over in another building, noting that Sig is following standard shoot-and-move sniping doctrine. The large adjustment knobs of the HK21 sight can be seen here. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA 7.62mm NATO case twirls through the air as G3 fires on what she thinks is Sig. In actuality Sig had been holding up a dummy silhouette. Sig is impressed (and unsurprised) by G3's ability to land three shots with an eight centimetre grouping within two seconds at such a long range. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingGetting carried away with her duel, G3 deploys the G3A3's bipod and goes all in, leaving Fal mildly exasperated that she's no longer helping against their original opponents, in this stitched shot. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingMuzzle flash from the G3A3 as the duel carries on a while longer, shortly before G3 opts to make use of her secret recoil reduction technique. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA fantastic stitched shot of G3 with her rifle after the battle, now without her leggings or shoes. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingG3 next to her rifle in the end credits, in this stitched shot. This is the only time within the anime that the G3A3 is seen without a scope. (ED)
L1A1
Funco's elder sister Fal is the British L1A1, often listed as "FAL L1A1" in the anime/manga, likely for clarity. Beautiful, smart, and an excellent tactician, Fal embodies all the traits of an admirable older sister. In the show as it aired Fal is at one point seen firing a burst of full-auto, something the semi-auto-only L1A1 is not capable of. This was corrected to three rapid shots in semi-auto for the BD release.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingL1A1 - 7.62x51mm NATOError creating thumbnail: File missingRifles in hand, Ichiyon and Fal challenge their sisters to a mock battle. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA stitched profile shot of Fal's L1A1 as she waits for Funco to make the first move. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFal and Funco face off on opposite sides of a fountain, in this magnificent stitched shot. The balloons attached to their heads are their targets. Although they are, again, not human and can take significant punishment, being shot is still not pleasant, thus the balloons. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFal fires three shots as Funco attempts to break cover, corrected from a full-auto burst in the original TV version. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingConfident in her victory, Fal asks what Funco will do now, giving a detailed look at her L1's receiver. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFunco opts for the clever and unexpected option of going through the fountain, poking her FNC's muzzle out and firing on Fal. It almost works. Fal manages to evade, and while keeping her composure simply grabs the FNC by its muzzle and pulls Funco rifle-first out of the fountain. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFal "executes" Funco with her L1A1. (Ep.2)Error creating thumbnail: File missingAfter G3 mentions that the "G" in her designation stands for Gewehr, Fal explains that "FAL" is an acronym for Fusil Automatique Léger, as this shot of the L1A1 over the Belgian flag is shown. (Ep.3)Error creating thumbnail: File missingA good close-up of the L1A1's receiver as Ichiyon asks what the "L" stands for (Land Service). (Ep.3)Error creating thumbnail: File missingFal the cool, reliable onee-san with her rifle and an ammo box in a stitched image from the end credits, giving a good look at the rifle's front end. (ED)
C1A1
A C1A1 is shown during the history of the L85. The Japanese text simply reads "early version FAL" and gives a cartridge listing of 7.92x33mm Kurz, which seems to be mixing up two FAL variants that independently are both very relevant to the topic. Canada was the first country to adopt the FAL, with the Canadians being responsible for converting its specifications from metric to imperial, thus creating the "inch-pattern" FAL. The British L1A1 (Upotte!!'s Fal) and Australian L1A1 were both derived from the Canadian C1A1. The C1 has several features quite distinct from other FAL variants (including its Commonwealth siblings), most notably an open-topped receiver with a stripper clip guide as well as a different rear sight.
The mention of 7.92x33 Kurz is a reference to the FN Universal Carbine, the very first prototype of what would become the FAL. Developed almost immediately after WWII, the Universal Carbine would quickly evolve into the FN Automatic Carbine in .280 British, before the American insistence on adopting 7.62x51mm as the new NATO standard forced FN to adapt their rifle for that cartridge.
A pair of crossed M1 Garand rifles make up part of Seishou Academy's emblem, and a large wooden sign depicting an M1 Garand sits on the entrance gate for the school's annual festival. The rifle is personified by Professor Garand, one of the few male gun characters in Upotte!!. Professor Garand has the appearance and persona of a WWII-era USMC drill instructor and serves as the teacher for many firearm and outdoor-related activities, such as supervising the firing range and the jungle tournament. Garand's (Japanese) actor also provides the voice for the show's narrator.
The Seishou Academy faculty members seen within the anime are Headmaster Springfield, Professor Garand, Ms Fujiko, Ms Thompson, Ms SK (SIG SK 46), and Ms Mire (Japanese phonetic pronounciation of "Mle", the standard French short form of Modèle).
Error creating thumbnail: File missingM1 Garand - .30-06 SpringfieldError creating thumbnail: File missingThe Seishou Academy logo on one of many booklets given to Genkoku to help him learn about the school. The muzzle, front sight, and receiver of the M1s are visible, and the same shot in the manga shows them in much more detail. (Ep.1)Error creating thumbnail: File missingSome of the male students assemble a gate for the festival, pulling up a large M1 Garand sign. Seishou is a mixed school, though all of the male students are simply human. (Ep.8)
M14
Ichiyon ("one-four"), the personification of the M14, is Ichiroku's adoptive elder sister. Described as seeming elegant and refined so long as she doesn't open her mouth, Ichiyon is notorious for terrible puns; this has earned her the nickname G Bijin ("G Beauty/Cutie"). Ichiyon is convinced the "G" stands for something like "Great" or "Gorgeous", but it's actually short for "Gakkari" ("Disappointed/Dejected"), with Gakkari Bijin usually translated as "God, Not Again Cutie". With the M14's full-power 7.62mm NATO rounds and fairly high rate of fire making the rifle notoriously difficult to control, Ichiyon's marksmanship is truly abysmal in full-auto; Ichiroku claims it to be as bad as a ten metre spread. When in need of a long range optic Ichiyon equips her rifle with a Leatherwood ART 3-9×40 scope, the same optic used on the M14's sniper rifle counterpart, the M21. As the M21 is merely a hand-picked-for-accuracy M14 fitted with an ART scope and locked to semi-auto, her M14 is virtually indistinguishable from an M21 when equipped with the scope, though is not one due to retaining full-auto functionality.
An SKS rifle appears in "Wash and Scrub!" during the explanation on the origin of bullpup rifles.
Error creating thumbnail: File missingRussian Simonov Type 45 aka the Russian SKS rifle - 7.62x39mm. The Russian SKS has a milled receiver and a blade bayonet. The rifles were issued with hardwood or laminated stocks. This example has a hardwood stock.Error creating thumbnail: File missingA SKS rifle with the flag of the USSR behind it.
Machine Guns
Browning M2HB
A Browning M2HB is seen on top of a Stryker ICV in "Take a Look! Scold Someone!".
In Curly's gun store in "Sing! Compete!", several assault rifles are portrayed as being sold in the world of "Upotte!".
Error creating thumbnail: File missingSame photo as the one above, except that the CETME Model L is fully displayed next to the T91.Error creating thumbnail: File missingOn the upper left side, you can see the barrel of the ST Kinetics SAR-21. On the upper right side is a M16A2 with a riflescope mounted on the upper receiver and a custom stock, similar to the M16A2 used by Duke "Golgo 13" Togo in the Golgo 13 series.
RPG-7
An RPG-7 launcher tube is shown in "Take a Look! Scold Someone!"
Magazines for the SCAR-H are seen during the lengthy summary of the differences between assault rifles and battle rifles, specifically when noting that smaller, lighter intermediate rounds allow for more total ammo to be carried. The SCAR-H magazines sit next to a stack of FN-pattern 5.56mm STANAG mags, which were originally developed for the FNC and later continued to be used for the F2000 and SCAR-L. Compared to typical American GI-pattern STANAG mags, FN STANAG mags are built from steel (rather than aluminum), have a darker finish, and their most obvious visual difference is that two of the three reinforcing grooves do not extend all the way through the bottom of the mag, ending just above the floorplate.
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