MG1918

Some random images of the MG08 Naval maxim converted for ground use. Looks rather nice I think due to the smaller differences. I do like the top cover holding open device.

I am also looking for this type of cleaning rod. I think this example is broken as all that I have seen have as stated a slot for the flanalette.

Mark

As Don knows (And he has been very gracious) I seek examples of original only, so if spares do crop up please shout!

Mark

Still here but very envious at all your new finds! I will surface soon once job allows. We do not have a specific inter-war MG section do we Chris?

Mark

Interesting sled - did you buy it?

A few images for interest,

A few standard postcards:

Not with me but when it does you will have 2 lovely examples!! Very nice. My examples are pretty rough but they are not rare over here and are still fetching Euros 400 to 500 each.

I intend to upgrade but it is not a priority at the moment as I am looking for T gewehr ammo.

Mark

Odulf great images......and they are all properly dressed!

Great image but a bit of a surprise how scruffy the section leader is! Cap pushed back, hands in pocket, fag in hand, tunic undone - cricket he could almost be an American! :>)

Mark

Interesting diagrams 1916. I am still looking for good trench fixed gun posn images.

Does anybody know a Mr Kevin Roberts pse who I think concentrates on WWI Canadian Regiments?

Thanks

Mark

Not only have I eaten my heart out I have chewed off one of my legs......

I have none!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am a bit confused.....I thought this thread title said Grips of Death, not 'let's have Chris and Eric tease the hell out of Mark'

Eric may know the US source that used to make very good reproductions of the sled pads, I do not sadly. There is a big demand for such a thing though but the US poc stopped years ago I believe. Someone somewhere must have the correct manufacturing designs though?

mark

So far discounting the early schlitten with the drum like wheel on the sides I believe there is still the 3 WWI variations.

All different for manufacturing economy reasons. However initially I relied on the dates to determine the progression and classed them as Mk I to Mk III, but then owners have shown a Mk I with late WWI dates and Mk III with a 1917 date!

So maybe it is a combination of economy AND manufacturer. It would be really useful to have some register of known sleds reflecting the year and factory maker.

Anyway it is all about the sled deck and the omission of the oil/jelly box then the small spare parts box. The so called Mk III sled therefore would have just the spare barrel fittings and tools.

I can do images if you wish.

Mark

There is a lovely saying in the UK....

'you have to kiss a lot of frogs to find a prince.....'

Plus

'don't knock it until you try it....'

Need I say more??!!! :>)

Thanks Chris....I think I understand! With an MG08 thread and an MG08/15 thread in the Firearms and Ordnance section is there any benefit in bringing just the MG08 element into the excellent grips of death? I assume no one will start a 'butt stock of death' here so the MG08/15 element is safe. I am not a moderator nor a web expert but would be keen on having one subject in one place. Hope that makes sense and is no reflection on all efforts so far?

Mark