Description
U.S. Army M7 Flamethrower Gun Nozzle Shield, P/N C81-1-4921, NSN 1040-00-347-2429
Item Overview
This U.S. Army nozzle shield was made for the M7 flame gun used with the M2A1-7 portable flamethrower, as well as the M9 portable flamethrower. The removable metal shield enclosed the front nozzle and ignition-cylinder area, helping protect these parts during handling and service. This listing is for the military-surplus nozzle shield only; the flame gun, ignition cylinder, tanks, hose, and other parts are not included.
Identification and Features
Army technical manuals identify this component as “Shield, Nozzle.” Its part number and National Stock Number provide firm identification for the M7 flame gun assembly.
- Official nomenclature: Shield, Nozzle
- Part number: C81-1-4921
- NSN: 1040-00-347-2429
- Federal Supply Class: 1040
- Application: M7 portable flamethrower gun
- Weapon systems: M2A1-7 & M9 portable flamethrowers
- Manual reference: TM 3-1040-204-14
- Parts location: Group 100—Gun Group, Ignition Section
- Illustration: Figure B-1, Item 1
Function and Installation
The shield screwed over the front of the M7 ignition head and surrounded the nozzle and replaceable ignition cylinder. A latch on the gun secured the shield after installation. Soldiers removed the shield when installing or servicing the ignition cylinder. Army instructions also warned that the shield became hot during firing and required careful handling afterward.
Weapon-System History
The M2 portable flamethrower family was developed during World War II and later improved through several M2A1 configurations. The M2A1-7 combined a backpack tank group, hose, and handheld M7 flame gun. Fuel was carried in two tanks, while a third tank supplied compressed air to move the fuel through the system. The M7 gun controlled the flow and ignition of the fuel at the operator’s end of the assembly.
History of Use
The U.S. Army classified the M2A1-7 as an individual assault weapon intended mainly for close combat against personnel and military material. Systems from the M2 family served from World War II through the Korean and Vietnam eras. The Army’s 1973 technical manual shows that the M2A1-7 and M7 gun remained documented service equipment into the early 1970s. This nozzle shield represents the ignition system that allowed the later M7 gun to be maintained in the field.
Condition
This is a military-surplus component and may show scratches, finish wear, discoloration, oxidation, residue, dents, or other marks from age, storage, and handling. Markings, finish, and minor details may vary between available examples. Please check the pictures for the general condition of the item.
Ideal For
This M7 nozzle shield is well suited for collections and displays focused on U.S. Army flamethrowers, military engineering, and historic infantry equipment.
- M2A1-7 / M9 portable flamethrower displays
- M7 flame gun restoration projects
- U.S. Army equipment collections
- World War II through Vietnam-era exhibits
- Military museums and educational displays
- Historic flamethrower research
Approx length 5", Approx width 3", Approx height 3", Approx weight 0.6lbs.
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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