Description
Restored Inert 6-inch Mark 34 High Capacity Naval Projectile
Item Overview
This restored, inert 6-inch Mark 34 High Capacity projectile represents a U.S. Navy ammunition type used in cruiser artillery. Designated HC, the original service projectile delivered blast and fragmentation against shore targets and lightly protected surface targets. This example is intended for collection and display.
Identification and Features
- Caliber: 6-inch (152.4mm)
- Designation: Mark 34, also written Mk 34
- Projectile type: High Capacity
- Abbreviation: HC
- Military service: U.S. Navy
- Documented gun application: 6-inch/47 Mark 16 naval gun
- Status: Inert
- Condition: Restored
How It Worked
In its original service form, the Mark 34 carried an explosive bursting charge inside its shell body. The High Capacity design provided a large internal cavity for this charge. When the projectile detonated, the bursting charge produced blast and broke the body into fragments. A rotating band engaged the gun’s rifling to spin the projectile and stabilize its flight.
Weapon Applications
The Mark 34 was part of the ammunition family for the U.S. Navy’s 6-inch/47 Mark 16 gun. These guns equipped the main batteries of Brooklyn, St. Louis, Cleveland, and Fargo-class light cruisers in triple turrets. Cruiser main batteries supported surface engagements and the bombardment of shore targets.
Historical Background
The Navy’s May 1947 publication U.S. Explosive Ordnance documents the Mark 34 High Capacity projectile in several modifications. It belongs to the ammunition family associated with American light cruisers of World War II. The 6-inch/47 gun continued serving after the war, including aboard converted guided-missile cruisers that retained gun turrets for shore bombardment during the Vietnam War.
Condition
This is a restored, inert projectile. Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item.
Ideal For
This projectile suits collections and exhibits covering U.S. naval artillery and cruiser armament.
- U.S. Navy ordnance collections
- Light-cruiser main-battery exhibits
- High Capacity projectile studies
- Military museums and educational displays
Approx length ", Approx width ", Approx height ", Approx weight 85lbs.
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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