Was ist das?

[RTY]

Hello.

What is a cylindrical thing in the center of the photo?

http://svsm.org/gallery/panther03/IMGP4234

[whsammler]

This container held a charge and fuse assy that was used to destroy the barrel of the main gun to prevent use by the enemy.

The charge would be placed into the breech and the fuse set then pushed into the barrel close the breech and then run like hell.

The top of the can held the fuse assy in a small flat tin and the long tube held the charge...this was also used on may field guns later in the war and was attached to the shield near the sight.

I will try get a picture of the fuze assy & tin I have in my collection.

[RTY]

Thank You for answer!

I would be grateful to have photos of this container' contents.

[Zünder]

whsammler's answer is almost correct

The main charge was fitted with a metal strip connected with a hinge.
The strip was folded back before inserting the main charge into the chamber of the gun, thus preventing the breech from cutting of the fuze cord.

Breech was closed and fuze was lighted.

They came in all shapes and sizes, and were even made for the Ger******228;t 40 with 54 cm barrel.

Info: http://www.lexpev.nl/html/minepages/minepag92.htm
Rest of the site is excellent as well.

[whsammler]

Was ist Das?

I know once Zünder chimed in on this thread the record would be set right.

I think Zünder has forgotten more than most of us know about German WW2 ordnance.

Zünder thanks for the extra info and the link.