Large Unknown Projectile - Calibre 171 mm

[Andy Naude]

Could you please help with the identification of this item?

Calibre: 171 mm

What type of ammunition was this?

Was there an original colour code?

What do the markings mean?

Would it have been a two piece i.e. Was there a brass case that was used or was it a bag of propellant?







Looking forward to the response.

 

[glevum]

It is probably a 7" RML round.

If you can measure the item accurately and weigh it and post a picture of the base it should be possible to identify the type of round.

This would be for a rifled muzzle loading gun. so no case would be used. The propellant would be rammed first followed by the shell.

I think there is a 7" RML gun on display in Cape Town.

 

[Andy Naude]

Hight approx. 450 mm (dark here).

Don't have a scale at this stage to weigh this one.

 

[glevum]

Looks like a 7" Pallister shell.

Precise measurements would help.

Having the plug in place in the base is a bad sign. It may still be full of explosive.

I strongly suggest you do not move it and call your local EOD and get them to look at it.

 

[Andy Naude]

Thank you for your help.

Andy

 

[ben2000]

Definitely an 1878 dated MkIII 7 inch Palliser shell. As mentioned the plug is still in place and unless it has been drilled, could contain 2.5lbs of black powder, though they were more often never filled - Either way as mentioned best to get it checked out.

 

[Andy Naude]

Thank you. Appreciate your input.