Description
You are bidding on an EXCELLENT example of a 100% ORIGINAL WW2 US Army/Navy Mark 13 Model 0 Distress Signal Flare! Designed in the 1940s, these were used up until the 1990s.
The Signal, Mk 13 Mod 0 is a combination distress signal for use under day or night dis-tress conditions, or both. Because of its small size it can be carried conveniently in pockets of of live-vests, flight suits or life rafts. It is particularly adapted for use by aircraft pilots downed at sea.
This signal is similar in appearance and operation to the Signal, Distress, Smoke, Hand, AN Mark 1 Mod 1. Whereas the Signal AN Mark 1 Mod 1 is a smoke signal for use only under daytime distress conditions, the Signal Mk 13 Mod 0 contains the same orange smoke canister in addition to a pyrotechnic flare pellet for use under night distress conditions. The signal consists of a metal cylinder outer case 5-1/8 inches long and 1-5/8 inches in diameter. Weight of the signal is 6.4 ounces. Both ends of the metal tube are closed by a soldered cap to which is attached a pull ring for insertion of the in-dex finger.
Upon removal of the soldered closing cap, a brass wire attached to the bot-tom thereof is pulled through a small cup coated with a friction igniting composition. This action results in igniting the pyrotechnic flare or the smoke composition depending on which pull ring is removed. Smoke emission time is approximately 18 seconds. Flare burn-ing time is 18 to 20 seconds. Average candle power of the burning flare is 3,000 candles.
Made of steel, this item is in VERY NICE unused condition! Featuring an expiry date of May 1946, this would have been produced most likely early in the war. Features MUCH of the original paint and finish (some corrosion), but NO damage! Most stencils and markings are also still intact. Would make a PERFECT item for any collection or display!
