WW II US Navy Aircraft – Mk. 8 Mod. 8 ILLUMINATING GUNSIGHT – Corsair TBM F6F

You are bidding on a SUPERB example of a WW2 US Navy Mk. 8 Mod. 8 Illuminating Gun Sight!  This gunsight was used specifically in gunner positions of various fighter aircraft, such as the Corsair, Hellcat, Avenger, Neptune, and others!

 Made by Spencer Lens Co., the Mark 8 featured a glass reticle that features a concave copper reticle.  Mark 8 Mod 2 up to Mod 8 were basically similar, differences between Mods being only due to slight internal variations, minor changes in optics and/or optics manufacturers and gradual improvements in manufacturing techniques.  All Mods could either be used with or without a fixed reflector glass (in which case the reticle was projected directly on the armored glass windscreen or to a reflector glass fixed directly on the windscreen) or with an Adjustable Reflector head for rocket firing and/or toss bombing.  After WW II, The Mark 8 was gradually replaced by the newer Mk 1 Sight Unit in attack planes and the Mk 23 Gun sight and Mark 8 Sight Unit in fighters.  Used in the F4U,  F8F, F6F, TBM and P2Vs.

 Made of aluminum, steel, and glass, and dating around 1944, this is an AMAZING used example.  Though there are some light scratches and wear from storage, it retains 95% of it’s original finish!  All the glass is original to this sight, and the data plate is 100% intact, and clearly indicates the model and type.  A bit of dust and dirt from storage, but that can easily be rectified by the winning bidder.  Features the standard reticle.  Some small chips and a scratch in the glass (see photos)…but it does not detract.  Has a repair/overhaul stamp dated 1962.  Sighting head is marked as a Mark 7 Mod 0.  Would make an EXCELLENT addition to any collection, display, or simply as a conversation piece! 

Please email me if you need additional photos or information.