Description
The 3.7 cm Tankabwehrkanone 1918 in starrer Räderlafette or 3.7 cm TAK 1918, was an anti-tank gun built by Rheinmetall for the Imperial German Army near the end of the First World War. This was the world’s first AT gun ever built that was purpose-designed for the role of an anti-tank gun. The 3.7cm Grabenkanone – literally ‘trench gun’. Designed by Krupp, utilising ‘offspring of the old five-barrelled Gruson revolving guns… when it was replaced by the single shot quick-fire 5cm case mate gun’. Mounted on a U-shaped beam with two different shield options: one (13mm thick) for firing from an enclosed position; larger shield for firing from an open position. The gunner could use a small mirror on the side to observe fall of shot! Smaller version could be manhandled. The 3.7cm Sturmbegleitkanone – designed by Krupp, also based on the tubes of 3.7cm revolving gun. The shield was in four parts and the trail held 2 planks for crossing ditches, etc. It fired 3 types of projectile: impact fused shells (anti-infantry, blockhouses), canister (48 13g balls), and bombs launched in high angle mode like a minenwerfer. Made of brass and steel, this Veteran-Made TRENCH ART is a FANTASTIC piece of history! Completely inert, there are some very slight wear and marks, however it remains VERY SOLID with much of the original paint and finish! The veteran inscribed his initials, as well as “AEF FRANCE” into the side. He also added some scroll work/floral motif. The brass case features all the original markings, including “PATRONENFABRIK KARLSRUHE 1918”. A SUPERB addition to any collection or display! Please email me if you need additional photos or information. |
