Description
INERT 25mm Oerlikon Fired Cartridge Case with Large Screw-In Primer, 25x137mm
Item Overview
This original 25mm Oerlikon fired cartridge case is chambered in 25x137mm and retains its large screw-in primer. The casing has been fired and is completely inert. It contains no projectile, propellant, or active primer.
The threaded primer is a distinctive feature of this Oerlikon-produced casing. Many U.S.-made 25x137mm cases used press-in primers, making this large screw-in design an interesting variation for ammunition collectors.
This listing is for one fired casing with its screw-in primer. A projectile, ammunition link, cannon, and other components are not included.
Identification and Features
- Caliber: 25x137mm
- Manufacturer/brand: Oerlikon
- Item type: Fired cartridge case
- Primer configuration: Large screw-in primer
- Status: INERT
- Projectile: Not included
- Propellant: Removed or consumed during firing
- Weapon family: Oerlikon KBA and M242 Bushmaster 25mm automatic cannons
The large threaded primer remains installed in the base. Headstamps and other markings may help identify the manufacturer, production lot, or date of an individual casing.
Condition
These are original fired military-surplus casings. Each example may show primer strikes, extractor or ejector marks, finish wear, scratches, discoloration, light oxidation, small dents, or residue from firing and storage.
Markings, finish, and surface condition may vary. Please review the product pictures for the represented condition.
Historical Background
The 25x137mm cartridge family was developed during the Cold War for a new generation of automatic cannons used on armored vehicles and naval mounts. Oerlikon developed the KBA 25mm cannon during the late 1960s and early 1970s after obtaining European rights to the earlier American TRW 6425 design.
The KBA became known for its gas-operated action, dual-feed system, and ability to fire several types of 25x137mm ammunition. Its ammunition family included high-explosive, armor-piercing, discarding-sabot, and target-practice rounds.
The United States selected the externally powered M242 Bushmaster in 1977. It entered service on the M2 and M3 Bradley Fighting Vehicles during the early 1980s. The same caliber was later used with the LAV-25, Mk 38 naval gun system, and other military platforms.
Oerlikon and U.S.-made 25x137mm ammunition shared the same basic cartridge dimensions, but their cases could have different primer designs and manufacturing details. This screw-in primer casing preserves one of those less-common construction variations.
Ideal For
- 25mm ammunition collections
- Oerlikon KBA cannon displays
- M242 Bushmaster exhibits
- M2 and M3 Bradley collections
- LAV-25 and Mk 38 displays
- Cold War military collections
- Military museums and educational exhibits
- Desk displays and cartridge-case studies
Approx length 5.5", Approx width 1.5", Approx height 5.5", Approx weight .5 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.
Please visit our page about order lead times here: Order Lead Times