Are These Shells or Something Else Altogether?

[ulsterlad2]

Hello Lads. Whilst walking between Nine Elms, Thelus and Arras Road, Roclincourt cemeteries on Friday, I saw these 'objects' just off the side of the path. One is shell like in shape and the other one was half buried. I'd say that it was similar in size to a 1 - 2 litre plastic drinks bottle, perhaps slightly longer. I didn't touch them so I don't even know if they were metal or not. Perhaps they were old concrete bollards that used to be close to the path?

[centurion]

Look very much like unexploded shells. The light ring round the blunt end of the top one would be where the driving band had been.

[ulsterlad2]

[gem22]

certainly look like shells to me. the top right is unexploded and top left looks like shrapnel.

Garth

[IanA]

Shells.

[Gunner Bailey]

Shells.

Looks like a French 105mm or 155mm shell with percussion fuse. Should have a sign saying 'Leave well alone' next to them. Centurion is right about the driving band having been removed.

John

[ulsterlad2]

Thanks for the replies Pals.

[ian turner]

I tend to think the driving band is still present. Otherwise there would likely be a furrow/groove in its place. In this view the area of the band is still flush with the shell body. Also I think you can just make out the remains of the rifling marks on the band, feint as they are. It is discoloured in the same way as part of the nosecap.

Otherwise I feel uneasy just looking at their image - serious deterioaration not only to the outside, but no doubt the contents too. I would want to leave plenty of sea-room between me and those relics. Highly dangerous.....

Ian