Japanese brass case question

[Tmine35]

Unfortunately I have no photo of this item but it is definitely a Japanese brass case, dates most likely pre WW1. Dimensions are:
-Caliber 120mm
-Length 403mm ( may be shortened? )
-Base diameter 153mm

Any idea?

 

[Fuzeman]

Are there any Arsenal marks on it, that may help Ships anchor ?

 

[Tmine35]

I got some pictures that may help. The case in question is the last on right side.
Further there is a strange feature - the case mouth has symmetrically cut 3 similar double grooves. For what purpose?

 

[Falcon]

This is a separately loaded case. The tabs in the grooves would have held the card wad covering the charge in place.

 

[Hoeksel]

The holes helped me identify it. These cases are used for the 4.7" QF Coastal Defense guns as used in the UK. The measurements are in perfect agreement.

I have seen more Japanese ammunition made for UK guns.

Source: Big Bore Ammunition

 

[wichitaslumlord]

The arsenal mark (anchor with two wavey lines) is from the Kure Arsenal and I believe the round mark is a Naval acceptance stamp. Pat

 

[Tmine35]

The holes helped me identify it. These cases are used for the 4.7" QF Coastal Defense guns as used in the UK. The measurements are in perfect agreement.

I have seen more Japanese ammunition made for UK guns.

Source: Big Bore Ammunition

This makes sense, we had a couple of these guns here in Finland left behind by Russians in 1918. Russia purchased a few guns from Japan and a few from UK during WW1 to be mounted in coastal fortresses.

Thanks to all for information.

 

[ogreve]

Hi,

As mentioned, the anchor style indicates that this case was made at Kure arsenal. Furthermore, the date of manufacture is October of Taisho year 4 (= 1915).

Cheers,
Olafo