Description
This protective breech cover was made for the 90mm Gun M54 used on the M56 Scorpion self-propelled gun. It protected the exposed gun breech from rain, dirt, and debris.
Two covers are available. One has visible markings, and the other has no visible markings. This listing is for the breech cover only. The vehicle, gun, mount, and other parts are not included.
Identification and Markings
- Item: 90mm gun breech cover
- Part number: 8749839
- Vehicle: Gun, Self-Propelled, Full Tracked, 90mm, M56
- Common name: M56 Scorpion
- Gun: 90mm Gun M54
- Gun mount: M88
- Marking variations: One marked and one unmarked
Historical Background
The M56 Scorpion was developed during the early Cold War to give U.S. airborne troops mobile anti-tank firepower in a vehicle light enough for air transport.
The M56 had no enclosed turret or fighting compartment, leaving its gun breech and working parts exposed to the weather. Protective covers helped keep rain, dirt, and debris away from these components.
A 1959 U.S. Army maintenance article reported that the M56 breech cover could sag and collect rainwater. The Army recommended adding three grommeted drain holes to the lower portion of the cover. Some surviving covers may display this period field modification.
The M56 later served with U.S. forces in Vietnam. These covers represent the field equipment used to maintain one of America’s most unusual airborne fighting vehicles.
Condition
Two examples are available. One has visible markings, while the other is unmarked. Review the pictures for wear, stains, repairs, seams, hardware, and possible drain-hole modifications. The availability of the marked or unmarked example depends on remaining inventory.
Ideal For
- M56 Scorpion restoration projects
- Military vehicle museums
- Cold War collections
- Vietnam-era displays
- Educational exhibits
- Military equipment collections
Product Images
Pictures are stock images of our inventory. Unless otherwise noted, you will not receive the exact item shown. The pictures represent the general condition of the available inventory. The item you receive may be in slightly better or worse condition than the example shown.
Please review our Order Lead Times page before placing your order.