| Accession Number | REL/12428 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Technology |
| Object type | Artillery |
| Physical description | Metal, Rubber |
| Place made | Australia |
| Date made | 1942 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
6 Pounder Antitank Gun (Australia/England)
Description
The gun has a hydro-pneumatic recoil system; vertical sliding wedge breech mechanism; split trail and shield; single baffle muzzle brake. Barrel has been welded to repair damage. Wheels on this gun are non-standard and canvas covers have been provided. Condition very good.
Order a copy
History / Summary
Design of the 6 pounder anti-tank gun commenced in 1938 although production did not get underway until 1942. The 6 pounder anti-tank gun was first used in North Africa from early 1942 by the Royal Artillery and was also later issued to Infantry regiments. It was first used in action by Australian forces in 1942 by the 2/3 Anti-tank Regiment in Egypt. The 6 pounder was subsequently replaced by the 17 pounder anti-tank gun.
The weapon fires the following fixed ammunition: AP, APC, APCBC, APCR and APDS. The APDS projectile weighs 1.47 kg, has a muzzle velocity of 1097 metres per second and could penetrate 146 mm of armour at 914 metres.