Description
You are bidding on a SUPERB used example of a BOXED and NEW OLD STOCK WW2 USAAF Aircraft Sperry K-3 Upper Turret Computing Gunsight! Used in conjunction with the upper gun turrets on the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress!
The K-3 is a computing gunsight used in used in Sperry upper gun turrets used on the B-17 bomber. The K-4 is the same device with a different mount used in the Sperry lower gun turrets on the B-17. The gunner inputs range information by estimating the size of the plane and adjusting its image in the attached optical sight so that the image fits within the reticle. The gunner then tracks the target with the optical sight by moving the K-3 (mounted on a movable head) keeping the plane image centered in the reticles. The sight movements cause the computing unit, which, based on the range information and built-in ballistics data, to calculates the deflection, or lead, for aiming the guns and moves the turret accordingly.
Made of aluminum, steel, and glass, and dating around 1944, this is an EXCELLENT New Old Stock example. Though there are some light scratches and wear from storage, it retains 99% of its original finish! All parts are original to this sight, and the data plate is 100% intact, clearly indicating the model and type. Still factory sealed, it comes in the original crate! The crate is complete, apart from the cross piece to strap/latch the sight securely. A VERY RARE item, it would make an EXCELLENT addition to any collection, display, or simply as a conversation piece!
