Description
U.M.C. Co. 3-Pounder Brass Cartridge Case, Cut Down to 5 Inches
Item Overview
This original U.M.C. Co. 3-pounder brass cartridge case has been cut down to approximately 5 inches tall. It began as a case for an early rapid-fire artillery cartridge and was later altered for an unknown purpose. This listing is for the empty cut-down case only.
Identification and Features
Item type: Cut-down artillery cartridge case
Caliber class: 3-pounder, generally 47mm or approximately 1.85 inches
Manufacturer: Union Metallic Cartridge Company
Manufacturer marking: U.M.C. Co.
Manufacturer location: Bridgeport, Connecticut
Material: Brass
Current height: Approximately 5 inches
Included: Cartridge case only
U.M.C. Co. History
The Union Metallic Cartridge Company was established in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1867. U.M.C. became a major American ammunition manufacturer and produced cartridge cases for military, commercial, and experimental weapons. The company combined with Remington Arms in 1912, so the U.M.C. Co. marking is generally associated with ammunition made before that consolidation unless other markings show later production.
Original Cartridge
The 3-pounder designation refers to the approximate weight of the original projectile, not the weight of the case. American 3-pounder weapons commonly used 47mm fixed ammunition with the projectile attached directly to a brass case containing the primer and propellant. Because this example has been shortened, its original case length and exact gun model cannot be confirmed from its present dimensions.
Weapons-System History
Three-pounder rapid-fire guns became common during the late nineteenth century. Hotchkiss, Driggs, Nordenfelt, and related designs were installed on warships, patrol craft, coastal-defense positions, and some field carriages. Their compact fixed ammunition allowed crews to load and fire much faster than larger guns using separate projectiles and powder charges.
History of Use
The original role of the 3-pounder was close defense against torpedo boats and other small, fast targets. These guns also served against light vessels, landing parties, and coastal targets. As they became outdated for combat, surviving weapons continued in training, saluting, line-throwing, and auxiliary service.
Cut-Down Configuration
This case has been shortened to approximately 5 inches and no longer represents its original service length. Brass artillery cases were sometimes altered after service for decorative, workshop, or household uses, but the reason this example was cut down is unknown. The U.M.C. Co. headstamp remains its most important identification feature.
Condition
This original brass case may show tarnish, oxidation, scratches, dents, residue, worn markings, and an uneven or finished cut edge. No projectile, primer, propellant, gun, or other ammunition component is included unless specifically pictured or stated.
Ideal For
This case is well suited for early American ammunition collections, U.M.C. and Remington displays, 47mm naval-ordnance collections, antique cartridge-case displays, military museums, historical research, and educational exhibits.
Approx length 5", Approx width 2.5", Approx height 2.5", 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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