bomb release device

[F0031]

Can anyone identify this device I acquired at Stoneleigh. Looks like a bomb release mechanism for a small bomb (50kg or less?), but which aircraft I don't know. It is small; the main steel casing is 214mm x 70mm x 22mm and the two cradles are 174mm apart. It's a little past its sell-by date but one can see how it works. A rod inside the cylindrical part moves a small hook, which releases a larger hook, which then releases the main hook. The two holes are presumably for inspection - to see that the first two hooks are properly engaged.

Thanks,

Tony

[hicky1300]

Hi Tony
Definitely a bomb release mechanism - but at type/origin etc cannot help further.
One of the holes may have been for the installation of a safety (pip) pin.
This would be installed upon loading bomb into rack - then removed on pre-flight (assuming aircraft was around long enough to warrant pin!!)

[Rockteer]

Visited Flixston museum in Norfolk last October, and they had one of these displayed, seem to remember it was British origin.

Dan