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Strange MILLS
- Thread starter Spgr30
- Start date
I have not encountered any grenade like this based on a Mills body. The example shown appears to operate by removing the pin and then rotating the top cap section, perhaps a quarter turn, to release an internal striker. Is that how it works? Are there other photos available to help clarify?
If the item does date from WWI, the closest patented idea may be one from James and Samuel Walster (No. 16749, application date November 1915), whereby a simple push in/locking fuze plug was suggested in order to expedite grenade production - the Mills-style lugs for lever and pin were dispensed with, removing steps in the maching process. Although the patent does not discuss a fuze in any detail, a simple twist mechanism retaining a striker and spring in compression would be possible. However, I am not aware that the Walsters actually produced any grenade prototype to their patent, so unfortunately all somewhat speculative.
Equally the item might represent a completely independent and parallel development carried out in the field. Where was this example found? The location might suggest British First or Second Army workshops... Even more speculative, so hopefully someone else might have some facts to hand.
Tom.
If the item does date from WWI, the closest patented idea may be one from James and Samuel Walster (No. 16749, application date November 1915), whereby a simple push in/locking fuze plug was suggested in order to expedite grenade production - the Mills-style lugs for lever and pin were dispensed with, removing steps in the maching process. Although the patent does not discuss a fuze in any detail, a simple twist mechanism retaining a striker and spring in compression would be possible. However, I am not aware that the Walsters actually produced any grenade prototype to their patent, so unfortunately all somewhat speculative.
Equally the item might represent a completely independent and parallel development carried out in the field. Where was this example found? The location might suggest British First or Second Army workshops... Even more speculative, so hopefully someone else might have some facts to hand.
Tom.
paul the grenade
Well-Known Member
Fantastic!! Anymore pics?
Paul.
Paul.
paul the grenade
Well-Known Member
Excellent pics. that must be the strangest mills ive ever seen. it looks more complicated to make than a standard one.
Cheers, Paul.
Cheers, Paul.
pointblank0
BOCN Supporter
That striker with the groove down the side, didn't they make similar ones for the Mills in Normandy from some factory used to produce very few strikers? I have definitaly seen a similar striker before, but it was WW2 era.
Dunkirk Grenade uses a striker simmular to that one, i wonder what is missing to turn the striker 45 degs ...... Dave
pointblank0
BOCN Supporter
Ah, Dunkirk is what I was meaning then
Here's a picture of the striker used in the Dunkirk Grenade (WW1)
Dave
Dave
paul the grenade
Well-Known Member
Hi dave. I dont think theres anything missing. looks like you pull the pin and give the knurled brass cap a twist to release the striker.
Cheers, Paul.
Paul
I can't see why anyone would replace a cheap and simple lever with a heavy cast ring? It would also be igniting in the hand rather than after release, removing one of the great benefits the Mills No 5 brought in.
John
Of cause how silly of me not to see that Paul, i sure would like too see how it holds the striker while the top is turned, perhaps this is a experimental to try and get round mills patents and have the det in the center....... Dave