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More Arrivals - Mills and L111

commachio

commachio

Member
Premium Member
Over the past week I have had a few more arrivals (on my gallery as well). This included a 1916 No5 MK1 found in DelVille woods, Somme during an excavation. This was apparently still in a wooden crate along with five others. The original owner has done an exception job in restoring. The pitting etc I think adds to its prodidence. All parts are original except the pin.

Also another No5/23 MK1 but from Verdun, Somme of an unknown find date. This was in terrible condition when recieved but is going through a restoration at present (before and after shots in single photo). Only body and base plate are original and sourcing more parts as we speak.

Lastly was a British L111 Practice Grenade. Comes with a fuze that, once the grenade is airborne, emits a loud bang or alot of smoke. Nice to have in the collection. I also have a 'Mint' condition one but this is currently 'lost' in the post!!!!
 

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Hi bud,

really nice grens but the No 5 has a 23 type lever. Did it all come together with the base plug? I had a boxfull from the Somme, all had flat levers, all sold but i have kept the box.
Nice grens though, well done.

Andy
 
Hi Andy....many thanks. The Gren came exactly as purchased. I'm relatively new to all this but from what I can gather this was exactly as found (except the pin). It does seem strange now that you mention it that the levers a MK23? Is there any chance its actually a MK23 Gren rather than a MK5 or possibly they put a MK23 lever on it? All open to debate I suppose.:smile:
 
Your guess is as good as anyones bud. Could be that the plug is wrong. What is the striker like? Does it have a slot? If so, its highly likely to be a No 23. However could be a very late No 5 but with that lever and a slotted striker, my bet would be a No 23. If only it could talk! Still a nice gren though.

Andy
 
Never really know with Mills bombs. They went through so many changes before the changes became 'official'. I'm with you though, more likely a no 23 with a no5 base plug screwed on
 
Nice grenades commachio, also very nice to know of the history and story behind them. That is the juice for me...Dano
 
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