Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon - WWI Era

Published on July 6, 2014
Duration: 6:14

This review details the Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon, a WWI-era artillery piece originally ordered by France but seized by the US Army. It highlights the cannon's semi-automatic breech, hydraulic recoil system, and free traverse mount, unusual for field guns. The video also covers its iron sights, loading mechanism, and specific markings, concluding with a live-fire demonstration.

Quick Summary

The Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon is a WWI-era artillery piece featuring a semi-automatic breech, hydraulic recoil system, and a free traverse mount. Weighing 258 kg, it fires a low-pressure 37mm cartridge and was originally built for France before US Army seizure.

Chapters

  1. 00:19Introduction and History
  2. 01:11Semi-Automatic Operation
  3. 02:22Sights and Traverse
  4. 03:40Loading and Firing Mechanism
  5. 05:07Markings and Specifications
  6. 05:54Live Fire Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon?

The Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon is a WWI-era artillery piece manufactured around 1916-1917. Originally ordered by France, it was seized by the US Army and remained in inventory until 1921, though it saw no combat in WWI.

How does the Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon operate?

It features a semi-automatic breech that automatically ejects spent cases and locks open. Recoil is managed by an oil-filled hydraulic cylinder and spring, and it uses a free traverse mount for aiming.

What are the key specifications of the Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon?

The cannon weighs 258 kilograms and fires a low-pressure 37mm cartridge. It is equipped with iron sights and a shell deflector, and the 'A' model originally included an armor shield.

Where was the Bethlehem Steel 37mm Cannon manufactured?

As the name suggests, this artillery piece was manufactured by the Bethlehem Steel Company. Markings on the gun confirm its origin and specifications, with some plates in French due to its original intended customer.

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