1944 M1A1 155 mm Howitzer 'Erika' (reserved)

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This WWII M1A1 Howitzer is in good overall condition, with smooth-operating elevation and traverse mechanisms and a fully functional breech. Supplied with its original gun cover and additional accessories, this nearly 6-ton artillery piece is ideal for heavy-duty towing or as a commanding museum display.

We are happy to consider reasonable and serious offers.

Location
Nederweert, The Netherlands
Year of construction
1944
Country of origin
United States of America
Manufacturer
Rock Island Arsenal
Type
M1A1 155mm Howitzer
Condition
In good condition

Details

Condition

A Howitzer called Erika

This World War II M1A1 Howitzer is in remarkably good condition. All mechanical functions appear to be operational: the elevation and traverse mechanisms move smoothly, and the breech opens without resistance. The howitzer comes complete with its original gun cover and additional accessories as shown in the photos. Beneath layers of paint, the once-given pet name 'Erika' is still visible. We're sure there's an interesting story behind it...

Weighing nearly 6 tons, this formidable piece of artillery is perfectly suited for serious heavy-duty artillery tractors. When fully elevated, the howitzer makes for an impressive and commanding static display in any museum setting.

The gun is still live. However, BAIV can deactivate the cannon in accordance with applicable regulations and, if required, can also arrange for all necessary certifications and export permits. Additional costs apply for this service. Please contact Tracks & Trade for further information about the possibilities.

Technical details

Manufacturer
Rock Island Arsenal
Model
M1A1 155mm Howitzer
Carriage number
612
Carriage model (Split trail)
M1A1, Lufkin Fdy. & Mach. Co.
Carriage date of manufacturing
1944
Mechanism number
3053
Mechanism type
Recoil M8, 155 mm
Mechanism manufacturer
RHOE & Co. Inc.
Mechanism date of manufacturing
1944
Gun number
Gun date of manufacturing
1945
Length
24 ft 0 in (7.3 m)
Width
8 ft 0 in (2.4 m)
Height
5 ft 11 in (1.8 m)
Barrel length (overall)
12 ft 5 in (3.79 m) L/24.5
Caliber
6.1 in (155 mm)
Weight
12.800 lb (5.800 kg)
Elevation
−2° / +63°
Operational firing range
16,000 yd (14,600 m)
Crew
11
Production numbers
10.300 (between 1941 – 1953)
Permits & licenses
Deactivation & (export) permits are required

History

The 155 mm Howitzer M114 is a towed howitzer developed and used by the United States Army. It was first produced in 1941 as a medium artillery piece under the designation of 155 mm Howitzer M1. It saw service with the US Army during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, before being replaced by the M198 howitzer.

The gun was also used by the armed forces of many nations. The M114A1 remains in service in some countries.

Before and during World War II

In 1939 the development began anew, by spring 1941 the first specimen was ready to be test-fired and immediately after passing them it was standardized on 15 May 1941 as Howitzer M1 on the Carriage M1. The howitzer itself differed from the older model by a lengthened barrel of 20 calibers and a new breech mechanism. Uniquely it was the sole 'slow-cone' interrupted screw mechanism to enter US service after 1920.

The carriage was also used by the 4.5-inch gun M1. It went through a number of minor changes over time. The original Warner electric brakes were replaced by Westinghouse air brakes on the M1A1. Both the M1 and M1A1 carriages used a mid-axle firing pedestal that was extended by a ratchet mechanism. The M1A2 replaced the ratchet with a screw-jack system and also modified the traveling lock. The M1A1E1 carriage was intended for use in jungle and muddy terrain and replaced the wheels of the M1A1 with a free-wheeling tracked suspension, but the project was terminated after V-J day without having reached production. The T-9 and T-10 carriages were projects using low-grade steel alloys that were canceled when no longer needed. The T-16 was a light-weight carriage using high-grade steel that was estimated to save some 1,200 lb (540 kg); work began in July 1945 and continued after the war, although nothing seems to have come from it.

Feel free to get in touch

Ivo Rigter Sr.

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