Description
155mm M1/M114 Howitzer Sight-Bracket Mounting Plate, P/N 6171037, NSN 1025-00-617-1037
Item Overview
This U.S. Army sight-bracket mounting plate was used with the recoil mechanism of the 155mm Howitzer M1 on the M1A2 carriage. The system was later redesignated the M114 howitzer. This solid mounting plate joined the recoil-mechanism cradle to the telescope and sight-bracket assembly. It is a non-explosive mechanical component and is not ammunition, armor, or packaging material.
Identification and Features
Army repair-parts records identify this component as “Plate: sight bracket.” Its six-hole design provided secure mounting points for the sight bracket and associated fire-control equipment.
- Official description: Plate: sight bracket
- Part/drawing number: B6171037
- Army catalog number: 6171037
- Original stock number: C39-6171037
- Later Federal Stock Number: 1025-617-1037
- Modern NSN: 1025-00-617-1037
- Manufacturer shown: York Electric & Machine Co., Inc.
- Application: 155mm Howitzer M1/M114 recoil mechanism
- Carriage application: M1A2
- Component type: Non-explosive mechanical mounting plate
How the Plate Worked
The plate formed the mounting interface between the recoil-mechanism cradle and the sight bracket. The sight bracket was bolted on top of the plate and supported the telescope equipment used to aim the howitzer. This firm connection kept the sight assembly properly positioned in relation to the weapon while the crew adjusted elevation and direction. The recoil mechanism controlled the rearward movement of the gun tube after firing and returned it to the firing position.
Weapon Applications
This plate is documented for the 155mm Howitzer M1 recoil mechanism used with the M1A2 carriage. An Army repair-parts list places it in Figure 136, item 8. Another Army manual identifies the same six-hole component as the “sight bracket plate” in Figure 131, item 9, and shows the sight bracket mounted above it. These references confirm that the plate belonged to the sighting installation rather than the ammunition or protective structure of the weapon.
Historical Background
The 155mm howitzer was designed in 1939 and entered production in 1941. It served during World War II as the 155mm Howitzer M1 and was later redesignated the M114. The weapon became a standard U.S. Army medium howitzer during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. More than 10,000 examples were assembled at Rock Island Arsenal between 1941 and 1953, including their carriages and recoil mechanisms. The M114 began to be replaced by the M198 in 1979, but many examples continued serving with other nations. Parts such as this plate supported the sighting equipment that crews used to aim the weapon during direct and indirect fire.
Condition
This is a military-surplus sight-bracket mounting plate. It may show scratches, finish loss, discoloration, oxidation, storage wear, or other signs of age. Manufacturer markings and minor details may vary. Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item. This listing is for one mounting plate only; the sight bracket, telescope, recoil mechanism, mounting hardware, carriage, and other components are not included unless specifically stated.
Ideal For
This original mechanical component is well suited for collections and exhibits covering U.S. Army field artillery, howitzer restoration, and historic fire-control equipment.
- 155mm M1 and M114 howitzer collections
- M1A2 carriage restoration projects
- Historic artillery displays
- Military museums and educational exhibits
- Recoil-mechanism component research
- U.S. Army fire-control equipment collections
Approx length 5", Approx width 3", Approx height 2", Approx weight lbs.
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not be receiving the exact item shown in the pictures. The pictures are representative of the item’s general condition. The item you receive might be slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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