WW1 6 Pounder PRIMERS...

[ammofo]

I've just picked up another 6 pounder Mark III but I've noticed that the primer is very different. I know that 6 pounders were used in WW1 tanks and that they also had other applications too. I've always assumed that the first two were tank cases but I think I need a fact check with the experts !! Does the different primer indicate a different gun and therefore usage? The third case has a 'No2 Mk III' primer with a date of 8/15 - it has also been turned into a trench vase and inscribed Ypres. Judging by the headstamps it has also been used a few times prior to this and has acquired a crack at 10 o'clock. I'd love to hear your collective thoughts...

 

[ydnum303]

The first two cases are Mk.III, that have the press-in primer; your 3rd case has had the primer hole modified to take the screw-in No.2 primer, so the case mark has been advanced to III*.

I cannot see the "N" stamp that indicates Naval issue, so possible that all three cases were for Land service.

Roger.

 

[ammofo]

Thanks Roger, by 'land service' are you inferring a number of possible uses other than simply just tanks?

 

[ydnum303]

My copy of "British Artillery Weapons & Ammunition" by Hogg & Thurston says "they were also accepted into Land Service, in which application most of them were used as armament for the first tanks." As they use the word "most", presumably some of the Land Service guns were used for some other purpose, but exactly what, I do not know. Anti-aircraft? Coastal defence (or would that come under Naval jurisdiction)? Perhaps some-one out there can tell us for certain.

Roger.

 

[ammofo]

My copy of "British Artillery Weapons & Ammunition" by Hogg & Thurston says "they were also accepted into Land Service, in which application most of them were used as armament for the first tanks." As they use the word "most", presumably some of the Land Service guns were used for some other purpose, but exactly what, I do not know. Anti-aircraft? Coastal defence (or would that come under Naval jurisdiction)? Perhaps some-one out there can tell us for certain.

Roger.

I think I did possibly see somewhere a reference to AA use and I think it was this that made me doubt the exclusive use in tanks. Like you say, hopefully somebody will have a more definitive answer. Thanks again for your input Roger.....it's much appreciated that you've taken the time to investigate.