Description
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You are bidding on a VERY RARE example of a WW2 United States Army Air Force Turret Control Stick Grip, as used ONLY in the Consolidated B-24 Liberator! This was removed from a B-24 that crashed over Germany in the late stages of the war. The Consolidated B-24 Liberator is an American heavy bomber, designed by Consolidated Aircraft of San Diego, California. It was known within the company as the Model 32, and some initial production aircraft were laid down as export models designated as various LB-30s, in the Land Bomber design category. In comparison with its contemporaries, the B-24 was relatively difficult to fly and had poor low-speed performance; it also had a lower ceiling and was less robust than the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. While aircrews tended to prefer the B-17, General Staff favored the B-24 and procured it in huge numbers for a wide variety of roles. At approximately 18,500 units – including 8,685 manufactured by Ford Motor Company – it holds records as the world’s most produced bomber, heavy bomber, multi-engine aircraft, and American military aircraft in history. This Turret Control Stick mounted directly between the Gunner’s legs. Operating hydraulically, it gave him control of the turret, guns, and microphone. Specific to the B-24 Liberator, and not used on any other aircraft! Made of steel, and aluminum, this Turret Gunnery Control Grip would have been manufactured between 1944 and 1945. Removed from the wreck of a B-24 Liberator that was shot down over Germany, it has some slight marks and wear, but is otherwise VERY solid! Trigger works perfectly, as do all buttons! The Data Label is still attached to the bottom, clearly indicating all manufacture info. Various part numbers and stamps throughout. Clearly identifiable as originating from a B-24 Liberator, I have shown its location in the last photos. A VERY RARE example, it would make a SUPERB addition to any collection, display, or restoration project! Please email me if you need additional photos or information. |
