I've been in discussion with some of our State environmental folks who needed assistance in determining potential hazards of some suspect items. It involved an archaeological survey of a former indian (American) site, currently under approx 100 feet of water in one of the Great Lakes. The initial identification was fairly simple, based on ROV videos. Related to this however, they had a "town meeting" nearby, and a local explained that he had been picking up bombs for decades while "beachcombing". Ignoring the ignorance and potential problems that such beachcombing presents, the photos provided (taken by the Environmental folks) are interesting.
The Cooper bombs which have been thoughtfully disassembled by the owner are straightforward and a simple ID. More challenging are the modified MK series bombs. They appear to be 25-50lb practice, but I have never seen anything like the fins or the "strap-on" suspension lugs. It is possible that these were done by the owner to "restore" the items, but in the photo provided the corrosion and rust patterns seem consistent over the entire items.
I have not been able to contact the owner of the items and the area is 4-5 hours away - in the summertime. It is currently -7F here and a couple of feet of snow on the ground with more coming. Any visit will have to wait for a while, I have better things to do until Spring. In the meantime if anyone has ever seen anything like these modified items (not the Coopers) I would appreciate any information.
Thanks in advance.
The Cooper bombs which have been thoughtfully disassembled by the owner are straightforward and a simple ID. More challenging are the modified MK series bombs. They appear to be 25-50lb practice, but I have never seen anything like the fins or the "strap-on" suspension lugs. It is possible that these were done by the owner to "restore" the items, but in the photo provided the corrosion and rust patterns seem consistent over the entire items.
I have not been able to contact the owner of the items and the area is 4-5 hours away - in the summertime. It is currently -7F here and a couple of feet of snow on the ground with more coming. Any visit will have to wait for a while, I have better things to do until Spring. In the meantime if anyone has ever seen anything like these modified items (not the Coopers) I would appreciate any information.
Thanks in advance.