M2A1 and M2A2 105 MM howitzers

US Army 105 mm M2A1 & M2A2 HowitzersDiscover a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic artillery pieces of the Second World War and Cold War era: the legendary US Army 105 mm M2A1 and M2A2 howitzers.Unlike previously released examples, these howitzers remain largely complete and have not been cut or dismantled into sections. Each piece represents an exceptionally original and historically significant example, preserved in remarkably authentic condition, as shown in the accompanyin...

US Army 105 mm M2A1 & M2A2 Howitzers

Discover a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic artillery pieces of the Second World War and Cold War era: the legendary US Army 105 mm M2A1 and M2A2 howitzers.

Unlike previously released examples, these howitzers remain largely complete and have not been cut or dismantled into sections. Each piece represents an exceptionally original and historically significant example, preserved in remarkably authentic condition, as shown in the accompanying photographs.

This collection is believed to be the final batch available in such complete and untouched condition, making it a unique acquisition for serious collectors, museums, reenactment groups, and military heritage enthusiasts worldwide.

Key Highlights

  • Original US Army 105 mm M2A1 & M2A2 howitzers

  • Largely complete and undismantled examples

  • Exceptional historical authenticity

  • Rare final availability in this condition

  • Ideal for collectors, museums, and heritage displays

For additional information, detailed specifications, pricing, or to arrange a private viewing appointment, please feel free to contact us directly.

We look forward to assisting you and answering any questions you may have.

Read more
Location
Nederweert, The Netherlands
Year of construction
1942-1945 (M2A1) and M2A2 (1955)
Country of origin
United States of America
Manufacturer
Various US manufacturers
Type
M2A1 and M2A2 105 MM howitzers
Condition
Original
Margin Goods
No margin goods; VAT applicable

Details

Condition

The howitzers will be delivered in ‘as-is, where-is’ condition, deactivated in accordance with the US DODM (Destruction of Defence Material) rules as indicated in the pictures.
See also pictures attached (Appendix 1).

We can supply these howitzers to individuals or organizations that can demonstrate their legal authorization to possess such weapons. This may be based on a valid firearms permit or another legal exemption, such as being part of a recognized collection.

Delivery is subject to applicable national and international legislation.

·       Condition-dependent pricing (as is):                    €18,000 – €22,500*

·       Fully restored examples:                                             €32,500 – €35,000*

Guidance and execution of deactivation and legal compliance procedures:
price upon request


* All mentioned prices are excluding VAT.

Technical details

Model
M2A1 and M2A2 Howitzer
Weight:
4,980 lb (2,260 kg)
Manufacturer:
Various manufacturers
Year of Manufacturing:
1942-1945 (M2A1) and M2A2 (1955)
Crew:
8
Barrel Length:
7’7” (2.31 m)
Caliber:
4.1” (105 mm)
Rate of Fire:
Up to 10 rounds per min.
Range:
12,300 yards (11,270 m)
Length:
19’6” (5.94 m)
Width:
7’3” (2.31 m)
Height:
5’8” (1.73 m)
Production:
Over 8,500 were produced during World War II

History

During the Second World War, U.S. artillery regiments consisted of an HQ detachment, one 155 mm artillery battalion, and three 105 mm artillery battalions. Both the 155 mm and 105 mm battalions had twelve howitzers each, divided into three batteries of four howitzers. That gave each regiment a total of twelve 155 mm howitzers, and thirty-six 105 mm howitzers.

The U.S. military artillery designation system was changed in 1962, re-designating the 105 mm M2A1 Howitzer the M101A1. The howitzer continued to see service in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Though a similar model, the M102 howitzer, shared the same roles in battle, it never fully replaced the M101A1. Today, the M101A1 has been retired by the U.S. military, though it continues to see service with many other countries. By the end of the Second World War, 8,536 105 mm towed howitzers had been built and post-war production continued at Rock Island Arsenal until 1953, by which time 10,202 had been built.

The Canadian Forces continued to use the M2A1 as the C2 howitzer until 1997 when a modification was made to extend its service life. France and the State of Vietnam used M2A1 Howitzers during the First Indochina War, as did the Viet Minh guerilla forces, they fought against, who were supplied with at least 24 by the People's Republic of China, along with other captured American artillery pieces and mortars formerly operated by both Nationalist Chinese forces (the Kuomintang military) and US troops fighting in Korea.

Today upgraded M2A1 Howitzers (some of which have been mounted on trucks and employed as self-propelled artillery) are still being used by the People's Army of Vietnam (the VPA). It continues to remain as the primary tactical field-howitzer of the VPA.

Moreover, several M2/M101 Howitzers were used by the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and approximately 50 were inherited by Croatia, of which four are still in use for training with the Croatian Army.

M2A1 Howitzers are still in limited service in many armies worldwide and used at several commemorations.

This picture is showing the U.S. Army salute battery team overlooking Omaha Beach on the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, Normandy, France, June 6, 2024.

Feel free to get in touch

Ivo Rigter Sr.

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