USA Copied 20mm Ammo from Germans! A look at the USA 20x138mm cartridge case #military #history #ww2

Published on February 18, 2024
Duration: 1:00

This video provides an expert-level examination of the 20x138mm belted cartridge case, detailing its German origins in WWII anti-aircraft guns like the Flak 30 and Flak 38. It highlights the US capture and subsequent testing of this ammunition, leading to the domestic production of the 20mm T1 test round by the Worcester Stamped Metal Company in 1941. The content showcases detailed knowledge of historical ordnance and ammunition headstamps.

Quick Summary

The 20x138mm belted cartridge case originated in Germany for WWII anti-aircraft guns like the Flak 30/38. The US captured this ammo for testing, leading to the 1941 production of the 20mm T1 test round by Worcester Stamped Metal Company, demonstrating early US ordnance adaptation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 20x138mm German Cartridge
  2. 00:26US 20mm T1 Test Round Development

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 20x138mm cartridge?

The 20x138mm belted cartridge case was a key German ammunition type used in World War II anti-aircraft guns like the Flak 30 and Flak 38. The US captured and tested this ammunition, leading to domestic development.

Who manufactured the US 20mm T1 test round?

The 20mm T1 test round, an American adaptation inspired by captured German 20x138mm ammunition, was manufactured by the Worcester Stamped Metal Company in 1941.

What can be learned from ammunition headstamps?

Ammunition headstamps, such as 'W.S.M.CO. 41' on the 20mm T1, provide vital information about the manufacturer, lot number, and year of production, crucial for identification and historical context.

What anti-aircraft guns used the 20x138mm cartridge?

The 20x138mm cartridge was primarily used in German World War II anti-aircraft artillery pieces, most notably the Flak 30 and Flak 38 models.

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