German machine gun ...

[Chris Boonzaier]

Hi,

Can anyone tell me the difference between the german WW1 and WW2 Ammo Tins?

Thanks

Chris

[Daniel Murphy]

Chris,

In general a WW1 can will have a machined steel loop handle for opening and closing the can. WW1 cans will also have a crown proof or two on the end indent where the dragging loop is. Reichswehr cans will be the same as Imperial but no crown proofs. WW2 / Bundeswehr cans will have stamped closing handles. Good luck finding the proofs under several coats of paint. Next to impossible, but WW1 cans do have them. I have a couple with them. I would say as long as you have the forged/ machined handle you are OK.

Dan Murphy

[JensF.]

The color is different too and the carrying grip is hollow. There are not always crown stamps on it, but very often a maker like one of the arsenals. Mine is stamped with "AWS" which was the Artilleriewerkstatt Spandau.