Mills 23 MkIII today.

[Millsman]

Great trip to Gent.

Had one surprise. In the middle of a table full of junk and surplus stuff I found a Chrome and red No 23 MkIII. Plug marked WEB 7 18 and the body W & Co. Lever by Falkirk Iron Works. Belgian safety pin.

Photos to follow when I get home.

John

 

[Millsman]

Here are some photos. I'd like to hear some views on the background to these chrome and red grenades.

John

 

[sgtlynn]

Are you sure its chromed, looks like its just well worn to me..... The red colour denotes a drill grenade in French or Belgian service. With the type of pin used which is not normal for British use, i would say its a Belgian grenade. British made for Belgian service.

 

[Millsman]

No, it has been chrome plated, as has the lever and fillling screw. The pin is definitely Belgian. I also have a No 5 that was just plated but not red painted and I've got two WW2 36's that have been plated. I suppose the question is, was the plating and red paint add in the UK during manufacture, perhaps as a training grenade (pre drilled holes type), or in Belgium later?

John

 

[siegfreid]

John . I can't imagine the WD going to the expense of Chrome plating a training grenade , zinc , yes but Tom will probably know . I've had loads of plated Mills grenades over the years but these have normally been presentation pieces or just privately done as ornaments . I'll be intrigued to find out any answers you get ! Thanks for showing it . Mike.

 

[Millsman]

Hi Mike

I understand a batch of plated No 5's was made in 1916 for training purposes possibly by Dudley Foundary. Can't find my notes on that at present. I agree that most will be presenatation items for leaving and retirements, probably for grenade instructors.

I'm pleased to get another No. 23 MkIII though. Always rare.

John

 

[millsbomber]

Here is my only example with the chroming or plating and red paint, i was told it was Belgium ornament by a Belgium EOD after WW1 but it seems this was converted to a throwing practice some time after then,,,,, Who Knows,,,,,, Dave

 

[Millsman]

That looks very close Dave. I've got a Belgian practice 36 with the same type of post on the baseplug, but mine is in normal metal, plus it has a leather bootlace connecting the lever to the shoulders. Just shows there's more around. What are the baseplug details of yours? No.23 or 36?

John

 

[millsbomber]

This is it John,,,,,, Dave

 

[Millsman]

Thanks Dave. Interesting plug. No date, not drilled. Diverted from production line??

Nice one.

John

 

[Millsman]

Here's a photo of all my Chrome Mills'. The cutaway is WW1. Body by Kenrick, plug by Morum & Co. The red inside is the same shade as the external red on the 23 MkIII.

John