Description
6-Pounder 2.24-Inch Mark 3 Blank Cartridge Case
Item Overview
This original 6-pounder Mark 3 blank cartridge case was made for the 2.24-inch, or 57mm, gun family, which was one of the first tank guns used by the US Army. Military blank cartridges used a primer, powder charge, and closure or wad but carried no projectile. This listing is for the cartridge case only.
Identification and Features
Official type: Blank cartridge case
Designation: Mark 3
Caliber: 6-pounder, 2.24-inch, or 57mm
Original role: Saluting and ceremonial firing
Configuration: Cartridge case only
Projectile: None
Blank-Cartridge Function
A complete blank cartridge produced the report and muzzle blast of the gun without launching a projectile. The case held the primer and blank powder charge, while a closure or wad retained the charge before firing. Military nomenclature specifically identifies the 6-pounder blank as a saluting cartridge for 2.24-inch weapons.
Weapons-System History
The American 6-pounder rapid-fire gun family entered service during the late 1800s. Early Hotchkiss and Driggs-Schroeder guns were installed aboard warships as protection against torpedo boats and other small, fast targets. Related guns also served in coastal fortifications and on parapet mounts, where their fixed ammunition allowed faster loading than older artillery systems.
History of Use
As larger and more powerful weapons replaced the 6-pounder in front-line service, surviving guns remained useful for salutes, ceremonies, and limited training. U.S. Navy ships continued to carry 6-pounder saluting guns after the caliber had become outdated for combat. Blank cartridges allowed crews to fire ceremonial honors without using a projectile-bearing service round.
Important Cartridge Distinction
The 2.24-inch designation equals approximately 57mm, but it does not mean that every 57mm cartridge is interchangeable. This case is associated with the earlier American naval and coastal-defense 6-pounder family and should not be confused with the longer 57x441mmR ammunition developed for the World War II 57mm Gun M1. The Mark 3 marking identifies the ammunition component pattern, not the model of every gun that could use it.
Condition
This is original military-surplus cartridge-case hardware. It may show firing or storage residue, patina, tarnish, scratches, dents, staining, faded markings, or other signs of age. The primer or primer pocket may show wear or may vary between examples. No powder charge, closure, projectile, gun, or other ammunition components are included unless specifically pictured or stated.
Ideal For
This case is well suited for 57mm naval-ammunition collections, rapid-fire gun displays, saluting-gun exhibits, U.S. Navy collections, coastal-artillery research, military museums, or historical study.
Approx length 3", Approx width 3", Approx height 9", 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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