Thanks, John, glad you like it. I tried to get a little bit of footage of everyone who used it, but I found a little software problem so had to limit things.
Now, here's a question for all you artillery bods out there; what is the purpose of the 'things' that look like nuts or bolts on the end of the muzzle? Its not a quiz or anything like that, I just found something else I don't know! I've put an arrow on the photo.
..Tanker is exactly correct; the "thing" ( Galet de la bouche , or muzzle roller in US service ) was fitted with two small rollers to provide a smooth ride into the cradle housing during recoil.
Interestingly, this devise was often removed in German service, as upon evaluation, they found it unnecessary .
Again you have done an excellent job, UncleanCreature! One small observation; note the guns unlimbering & then firing in the initial film sequence. They are firing "blank" ammunition without projectiles to induce recoil.
That was going to be my next question! Thank you for anticipating it.
I thought that either the film didnt have enough frames per second to catch it, or, the ammunition changed (as the war progressed) and developed more 'punch'. Neither of which was a satisfactory answer!
Thanks again.
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