Does any one know what type of mortar this is

[arantxa]

Thanks

looks

like

a ram

rod next to it 

[14276265]

 

Ordnance,

Muzzle loading

6-inch 

Trench

Mortar,

Mark I

[arantxa]

Thanks

[Gunner Bailey]

Great photo. I can't imagine the recoil on one of those beasts. 

Edited 10 April , 2019 by Gunner Bailey

[Scalyback]

I was only allowed two inches 

(81mm but spoils the joke) 

 

In all seriousness are they man portable? RA manned but how did they move them around and deploy? 

[Peter Le Duc]

Aren't these 6” Newton Trench Mortars as in this picture from the Passchendaele museum

[Ron Clifton]

Yes. See Post 2 for the Army's description, which doesn't mention "Newton".

 

Ron

[Gunner Bailey]

4 hours ago, Ron Clifton said:

Yes. See Post 2 for the Army's description, which doesn't mention "Newton".

 

Ron

The Military did not generally add the inventors name to their equipment if they were serving officers or men, although his grenade the  - Newton Pippin, did have that until it was evolved into the No 22. Lt  Col Newton was the most productive inventor in the army. He invented two grenades, the 6 in Mortar, two fuzes and a military tractor. He died in 1959.

[Peter Le Duc]

Thanks Chaps. Interesting, my Grandfather was in 9th Divn TM Brigade and was trained in their use. The Brigade war diary does call them Newton TMs.

Peter

[Peter Le Duc]

Just did a quick google and found this (albeit American) service handbook for the 6” trench mortar. Fascinating.

http://cgsc.cdmhost.com/cdm/ref/collection/p4013coll9/id/954

[new3.2]

The "ramrod" is actually a smoke extractor, notice the opening in the round head.  The handle is also hollow, and at the t-handle there are vents on both ends; must have been a smokey devil.  The projectile weights 53 pounds.  I have one  (6" Newton) that I restored; the American model, the only real difference is the US used heavy turnbuckles instead of stamped steel wheels for adjustment.  I can say from experience that great care must be used when making an adjustment, as the whole thing can collapse, and it is a ****** to return to the proper position by yourself.

Ken