Description
60mm M5 Mortar Fin Assembly Restored with Brown WWII-style Paint
This inert 60mm mortar fin assembly is the type associated with the M5 and M5A1 ignition cartridges used in early American mortar ammunition. The steel component features a hollow central shaft and four double-bladed fins. It has been restored with brown paint for preservation and display. The finish is a later restoration and may cover earlier wear, markings, or surface discoloration.
Identification and Features
Period U.S. Army manuals identify M5 as the early ignition cartridge fitted inside this style of fin assembly. The cartridge was held within the hollow shaft, while a threaded percussion primer closed the rear of the assembly. The forward end of the shaft threaded into the base of the projectile. This listing is for an inert fin assembly and does not contain a live primer, ignition cartridge, propellant, projectile, or explosive filler.
Function
The fin assembly kept the projectile pointed forward and stable after it left the mortar tube. Removable propellant increments were carried within the spaces between the fin blades when additional range was needed. The ignition cartridge started the firing process and could serve as the propelling charge for very short ranges. The older M5 ignition cartridge was later replaced by the improved M5A1.
Ammunition History
This pattern of fin assembly was used with early American 60mm mortar ammunition. Related rounds included M49-series high-explosive shells, M50-series target-practice shells, M69 training projectiles, and M83-series illuminating shells. These different cartridges supported combat, training, and nighttime observation missions.
Weapon System History
The U.S. M2 60mm mortar was based on a French Brandt design and became the standard American light mortar before World War II. It was a portable, smoothbore, muzzle-loaded weapon that delivered high-angle fire against troops and positions hidden behind hills, trenches, buildings, and other cover. Its simple construction and manageable weight allowed infantry units to carry effective fire support into areas that heavier artillery could not easily reach.
History of Use
American forces used 60mm mortars extensively during World War II, and the weapon family continued to serve through Korea and Vietnam. The mortar gave infantry units a fast way to attack protected targets without direct line of sight. Fin assemblies were essential to this system because they supported ignition, carried adjustable propellant increments, and stabilized each projectile in flight.
Collector Appeal
This restored fin offers a clear example of the construction found on early American 60mm mortar ammunition. Its compact size, recognizable blades, brown-painted finish, and connection to several historic mortar rounds make it well suited for an inert ordnance collection, military display, museum exhibit, or educational reference.
Approx length 2.5", Approx width 2.5", Approx height 2.5", Approx weight 0.4lbs.
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 in slightly better or worse condition than was shown in the pictures.
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