WWII Era M65 Battery Command Periscope Chest
$245.00
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WWII Era M65 Battery Command Periscope Chest
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Only two are left in this very good condition!
Condition Varies – May Be Missing Screws, Latches, or Have Differing Markings
Available now is an original WWII-era M65 Battery Command Periscope Chest, designed by the U.S. Army as the official storage and transport container for the M65 Periscope used in artillery fire direction. These rugged wooden chests are authentic World War II surplus items and were once essential gear for field artillery units employing elevated observation periscopes in battery command roles.
Please note: chests are offered in “as-is” condition. Some units may be missing hardware such as screws, latches, or internal fittings, and exterior markings may vary due to unit repainting, stenciling, or field repairs. Each piece, however, remains an authentic and increasingly rare artifact from the U.S. Army’s WWII artillery corps.
Historical Background
The M65 Battery Command Periscope was used by artillery officers to observe the battlefield from behind cover, survey distant targets, and communicate adjustments to firing batteries. Mounted on tripods or platforms the periscope allowed for panoramic scanning at high angles, making it ideal for elevated observation posts. These periscopes were widely issued to artillery units from the early 1940s into the post-war period.
To protect the sensitive optics of the M65 in rugged combat environments, the U.S. Army developed the M65 periscope chest—a durable and purpose-built container. These chests were issued with every periscope and often included internal brackets or cushioning to safeguard the instrument in transit.
Today, surviving examples of these chests are scarce, particularly those retaining any of their original hardware or markings. They remain highly sought-after by collectors of WWII artillery equipment, reenactors, and restoration specialists.
Product Details
- Item: M65 Battery Command Periscope Chest
- Era: World War II
- Material: Wood (metal hardware components may vary)
- Condition: New Old Stock or surplus; may be missing latches, screws, or internal fittings
- Markings: Exterior labels/stencils vary by unit history
- Intended Use: Originally for M65 artillery periscope transport and protection
- Origin: U.S. Army WWII-era issue
Ideal For:
- Collectors of WWII U.S. Army artillery gear
- Military museum and diorama displays
- Reenactment and vehicle restoration accessories
- Period-accurate field equipment presentation
- Film and theatrical prop use
Secure an authentic piece of U.S. Army artillery support equipment with this WWII-era M65 Battery Command Periscope Chest—a functional and collectible reminder of the command and coordination tools that enabled precise fire support during the most decisive campaigns of the 20th century.
Approx length 21", Approx width 10", Approx height 9", Approx weight 16.4lbs.
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 slightly better, or worse, condition than was shown in the pictures.
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