6 pounder Hotchkiss QF Mk II 6 cwt Male Tank Gun

This type of gun was used as the main armament on the Mark IV Male tanks during the First World War. The gun features a vertical sliding breech block. The recoil system is of the hydro-spring method. Fitted with R & J Beck Ltd telescopic sight, London, No 1728.
Breech block inscribed with: " No 8. 4891, O.F. Hotchkiss Mk II E.O.C. 1917"
Muzzle inscribed with: "No. 8. 4891"
Rear face of breech is inscribed: "Q.F. Hotchkiss 6 Pr 6 cwt II. E.O.C 1918 no. 8136." Additional breech number EOC no. 28524.

Makers plate on recoil mounting reads: "6pr Recoil Mtg Mk II Made by E.O.C. Apr 1917. Exd at Elswick 191. Wt Mounting 464; Wt Shield 576; Total 1482 Regd No A. 5784"

The 6 pounder 6 cwt Mk II gun was introduced on the Mk IV Male tank in British Army tank units in January 1917 as a substitute for the long barrelled Hotchkiss QF 6 pdr 8 cwt gun which often contacted the ground or other obstacles when crossing uneven surfaces.

• 6 pounder Hotchkiss QF Mk II 6 cwt Gun shield