Mountings, tripods and stands

Tripod, Mk. IV – Tripod, Mk. 5 – Experimental – Auxiliary / Sangster – Monopod – Overbank – Trench – Adapters – Field – Fortification – Cone – Gate – Anti-Aircraft – Bren – AFV use

Mounting, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV

Cat No. C1/BD 2225, List of changes 17289, 17679, 20028, 25360, A 3312 and A 4201, MOUNTINGS, TRIPOD, .303-IN. M.G., MK. IV “A” – With “A” crosshead
Cat No. C1/BD 2226, List of changes A 3312 and A 4201, MOUNTINGS, TRIPOD, .303-IN. M.G., MK. IV “B” – With “B” crosshead

Originally introduced for the Maxim M.G., it replaced the Mk. III mounting. Brought into use for the Vickers upon its adoption in 1912 as the standard service mountings, it had already been in use with regular battalions for the Maxim since 1909.

The mounting consists principally of a crosshead (a), elevating gear (b) and socket (c), mounted on three legs.
It is constructed to give 12 degrees elevation and 25 degrees depression at heights varying from 14½ inches to 30 inches from the axis of the gun to the ground. By arranging the position of the rear and front legs respectively, elevation may be given up to about 43 degrees and depression to 55 degrees. An all round traverse can be obtained.
The crosshead (a) to which the gun is pivoted, is formed with a pivot to fit into the socket (c) and an arm (d) which carries the elevating gear.
The elevating gear, which is actuated by a handwheel (e), consists of an inner and outer screw (right and left-handed) and a nut working within a tumbler (g). The tumbler is split and provided with a jamming bolt (h), by which the wear may be taken up. A chain secures the inner screw to the crosshead to prevent loss while travelling.
The socket (c) is bored to receive the crosshead and is provided with three legs (n), to which the legs are hinged; a jamming block and screw with handle (j) is attached to the front to secure the crosshead in any desired angle of traverse; the block works in a recess in the upper portion of the crosshead and prevents it from rising. Both faces of the rear leg and one face of each front leg are fitted with clutch plates having radial serrations to correspond with similar serrations on the faces of the leg joints. Joint studs with disc spring and jamming handle (e) are fixed to the front legs, by which the legs are securely clamped to the socket in the required position.
The legs (j,k) are of tubular steel, the lower ends being fitted with shoes (m) to steady the mounting on the ground, and the upper ends having a joint with radial serrations mentioned above. The rear leg is provided with a joint pin with nut and jamming handle (t).
On a portion of the periphery of the leg joints numbers are stamped at regular intervals so that when read in conjunction with a zero mark the relative position of the legs to their normal position may be readily seen.
A strap is fixed to the rear leg to secure the three legs during transport.
When firing, the ammunition box is placed on the ground to the right side of the gun.
Weight of mounting … … … 48 lbs.The Vickers gun can be fired from service mountings
War Office, 1914

The issues of the tripods was not complete by the time that the Great War started. Those units with a front line role and with Vickers machine guns were prioritised; however the issue of tripods to other units had to be controlled closely to ensure they ended up with relevant units that needed them the most. This was done by Army Council Instruction.

67. Mounting Tripods for S.R. [Special Reserve] Battalions
Approval is given for the issue of one mounting tripod, Mark IV, to each S.R. battalion in commands not already in possession of these mountings.
The necessary demands should be put forward on the D.D.O.S. [Deputy Director Ordnance Services], Woolwich Arsenal.
(L. 54/Res./322, Q.M.G. 9.)
Army Council Instruction 67, 6th February 1915.

215. Mounting, Tripod, Mark IV.
In continuation of L. 54/Reserve/322 (Q.M.G. 9) of 6th Feb., 1915, approval is given for the issue of one Mounting, Tripod, Mark IV, to each extra reserve battalion in commands not already in possession of one of the mountings.
The necessary demands should be put forward on the D.D.O.S., Woolwich Arsenal.
(L. 54/Reserve/322, Q.M.G. 9).
Army Council Instruction 215, 22nd February 1915.

The gun could be reversed on the mounting to give greater elevation for use in an anti-aircraft role.

Also, the crosshead could be used with other mountings, such as field-expedient anti-aircraft mounting poles.

For a list of component parts, go to Tripod Parts pages.

To see how to correctly set up the tripod, and understand some of the common mistakes and errors, watch our video:

Mounting, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. 5

The Mk. 5 mounting was constructed from a lighter-weight alloy (duralinium) to be predominantly used by airborne forces. Due to the reduction in weight, it required additional support in the form of spikes on the end of the tripod shoes. It was only constructed in limited numbers and did not remain in service for very long. It weighed 23 lbs.

Approved for service: List of changes C 1608, 14 April, 1945.
Declared obsolete: List of changes C 2876, 17 January, 1947.

It appears that there was also an alternative version of the Mk. V mounting produced that didn’t have the spikes typically of the Pattern-version. The example shown in the following photos was restored by Alex Schmidt of The Netherlands.

Experimental Mounts

During the use of the Vickers, there were numerous experimental commercial and military-approved mountings for the Vickers. War Office contracts identify 20 ‘Exp Vickers light tripod’ being ordered on 07 November, 1944. The order was placed with North London Toolmakers Limited at the cost of £52/10/- each. It is possible that these are the Mk. 5 tripod detailed above; however, other sources identify the production of these tripods from Portadyne Radio Limited and 2,050 being produced. This order may have been for a prototype or a competitor to the eventual Mk. 5.

MONOWHEEL CARRIAGE FOR MACHINE GUNS.- J. REGINALD HARDING

MUNITIONS DESIGN COMMITTEE SMALL ARMS SUB-COMMITTEE. Minute (S)12, 12 Feb 1916
Referred to Committee by D.D.G.M.D.(S.).
Description by Inspector.
The machine gun and its mounting will be carried on a single wheel, running on a steel axle. The axle will be the full width of the shafts, which will be secured to it by two steel plates. These steel plates will also carry the gun mounting. The wheel may run on ball bearings to reduce the friction if desired.
The shafts will not be prolonged beyond the saddle of the harness and will each end in a broad steel eye, to which will be secured straps to the saddle and girth and the breast strap. A seat with a tool box beneath will be provided, also a foot rest and step.
On each side of the wheel will be fitted ammunition boxes. The gun when travelling will be secured to the rear crossbar or transom by a strap. The shafts will be framed together by two crossbars or transoms and two steel bolts. When in action the carriage will rest on the two shafts, which will be fitted with spikes to go into the ground, and on the wheel which will be steadied by two struts. These struts may be made telescopic to suit any irregularity in the ground, and will be secured to the sides of the ammunition boxes when the carriage is travelling.
As the weights will all be balanced over the single wheel the fact of the shafts being rigidly secured to the saddle should ensure steadiness, but, of course, considerable care would have to be exercised in turning sharp corners lest the horse should be thrown over. With a strong steady horse and a careful driver this danger would be minimised, especially after some practice.
Spare ammunition could be carried in a similar carriage without the gun fittings or on led pack horses.
When in action the gunner would stand between the shafts and the seat would act as a rest for his body.
Such a carriage would be able to travel over almost any rough country at a good pace.
It would be possible, if desired, to fit small check wheels under the ammunition boxes six or more inches clear of the ground, which would only come into action in case of the carriage canting over. These wheels might be fitted with stiff telescopic spiral springs.
Report by C.S.O.F.:-
“I am afraid this vehicle is not a practical proposition. From experience with a monowheel hand vehicle, it was found that, even with the C.G. practically on the axle centre, a considerable amount of training was necessary before a man could use it at all. With the C.G. as shown in this drawing travelling would be almost impossible, and no horse could contend with it.”
ACTION TAKEN- Report to D.D.G.M.D.S.:- Decision that the Monowheel Machine Gun Carrage be not adopted is noted by the Committee. The Committee, however, recommend that, in view of future possible demands the following problems be investigated, and designs prepared for
(1) A shielded machine gun vehicle on two wheels to be propelled by the men of the machine gun section.
(2) A light method of conveying on wheels, or wheel, the machine gun and tripod.

MACHINE GUN MOUNTING PROPOSED BY MR. NEVILL.

MUNITIONS DESIGN COMMITTEE SMALL ARMS SUB-COMMITTEE. Minute (S)13, 12 Feb 1916
Referred by D.D.G.M.D.(S.).
Description by Inventor.
The gun is pivoted on the usual double bracket, as in the standard tripod arrangement, but this bracket is made somewhat flatter in the curve to the standard one.
The bracket is attached to a pin, which is machined and fitted with a ball. A butterfly nut for fastening tight is provided on the underside of the ball.
The ball is supported by two carriers, one of which is fixed, the other being adjustable. This is to admit of the gun being vertically upright at all times in any position.
The adjustable carrier is kept in place by means of a square threaded screw provided with an adjusting nut and clamp.
The traverse of the gun is admitted by the pin in the ball, and any cant where the ground may be sloping is overcome by the ball turning in the carriers, which are riveted to a steel base plate. Vide Sketch 4.
The steel base plate is carried on two runners curved upwards so as to admit of the machine gun when in the low position being some 14 inches from the ground.
The joints in these runners are fitted with serrated lock joints and have a tightening handle to each joint. By means of these joints the gun can be raised up to its highest or any intermediate position.
The front runner is single with a forked joint connecting it to the base plate.
The back runners are provided with cow joints (vide sketch) so that when the gun is raised they can be swung outwards to an angle of 45 degrees from the original line of the runner. Stops are provided so that the angle of 45 degrees is not exceeded.
Stops are also provided on the main joints so the legs cannot exceed the angle of 180 degrees with regard to the base plate.
At the end of each runner or leg an adjustable anchor spike is provided, for use when the gun is in a raised position. These are made to slip back when the runners are in a horizontal position.
The runners are curved in the centres so as to avoid a continuous contact with the ground, with the idea that by this device a sound bedding may be obtained on uneven or rough ground.
The usual mode of transport from the field base to the firing line would be either by two men carrying the gun and carriage in the same manner as a stretcher or by dragging the carriage as a sledge. The width between the back runners would be best about 15 to 20 inches.
The elevating gear is on the lazy tongs system, with an anchor [s]crew and lock nut – this having been designed to avoid damage when the gun and carriage is being dragged, the ordinary double screw elevating gear being liable to hit stones, &c., in rough country. (Vide Sketch 3.)
Ample elevation and depression can be obtained by this gear.
To increase the stability of the carriage two canvas bags – to be filled with earth, stones, sands, &c. – are to be carried on the carriage. These should be attached, after filling, to the hooks on the under side of the base plate. These bags to be made of any convenient shape and to be provided with loops at the edges for ready attachment.
The advantages claimed for this carriage are as under:-

(1) In the horizontal position the gun is ready for instant service in action, the gun and carriage being in one unit.

(2) It can be carried or pulled to the required position infinitely more easily than can a gun and tripod be carried.

(3) In case of a rapid advance or forced retirement the gun and carriage can be rapidly advanced or withdrawn without rendering it out of action for a moment.

(4) There is no difficulty in bringing up the gun and carriage to the field base, either by mule or by wheeled transport, as, since the front runner can be folded back, the carriage can easily be packed for transport.

(5) Since the frame and runners are constructed either from hickory wood in steel channels, or from stout bicycle tubing, a considerable saving in weight is effected. Note the wooden frame in steel “U” channels is strongly recommended.

(6) The elevating gear, while effective, is simple and should prove considerably cheaper to manufacture than the standard double threaded pattern.

(7) The ball and socket joint avoids the gun being canted, even when the carriage be on uneven ground or the side of a hill.

(8) With filled sandbags ample rigidity should be procured, provided, of course, that the workmanship of the joints is good. This should be the case in all positions.

Report by C.I.S.A.:-
Unless the mounting were made very heavy, the spring would make overhead or long range fire impossible.
In place of the three clamps to be manipulated when setting up the Mark IV. tripod, there are certainly four, and perhaps six, in this mounting.
A ball and socket joint is a very undesirable device.
The design of the elevating gear, and the direction in which the recoil which would come on it, invite the development of backlash.
Transport would probably be easier with this mounting that with our tripod, but I doubt if rapid changes of position could be carried out as quickly with it.
ACTION TAKEN-Reported to D.D.G.M.D.S.:- The Committee recommend that this portable mounting be not adopted unless information be obtained from the War Office that a mounting of this nature is required, in which case the subject of devising a suitable meounting be discussed and design made out, some of the points incorporated on the idea being considered and contrasted with any new designs.

MACHINE GUN TRIPOD, QUICK MOUNTING DESIGN (Lieut.-Col. BRADLEY).

MUNITIONS DESIGN COMMITTEE SMALL ARMS SUB-COMMITTEE. Minute (S)24, 24 Feb 1916
Lieut.-Col. Bradley, Motor Machine Gun School, submits a design to D.D.G.M.D.(S.), 10.12.15, for quick mounting of a machine gun on a tripod. He is requested to send the model to Enfield for the remarks of the C.I.S.A. and for trial with regard to testing of feed blocks, locks, &c., to see how the mounting stands the wear.
Report by C.I.S.A., dated 18.2.16:- “Many thousands of rounds have been fired from the gun off the Mark IV tripod mounting. The parts were carefully measured up before the trial. The only wear noticeable after the trial is as follows:-

Elevating brackets on gun-

“Recess in left side .002 inch

Crosshead hole in mounting-

“Right side .0015 inch

“Left side .0035 inch

“The check nuts which fix the elevating brackets on the gun worked loose occasionally.
“Remarks.-
“(1) The wear is considered no greater than with the ordinary mounting.
“(2) The lever for operating the hooks at the crosshead joint of the mounting is in the way of the belt box carrier and is liable to be over-strained or broken.
“(3) In order to make the brackets at the elevating joint on the gun interchangeable it would be necessary to standardise the diameter of the bosses on the gun, the size of which at present is of no consequence.
“(4) It is pointed out that this modification witll affect maxim guns and adapters for Lewis and Colt guns. Special elevating joint fittings would be required for these.
“Unless some arrangement is absolutely essential it appears very undesirable to introduce this arrangement at the present time. It would appear that the new approved auxiliary mounting, which can be always on the gun when the latter is in use, sufficiently meets emergency requirements.”
D.D.G.M.D.(S) refers the subject to the Munition Design Committee for consideration and requests recommendation.
ACTION TAKEN-
Reported to D.D.G.M.D.(S).
The Committee recommend that this design for quick mounting of a machine gun on a tripod be not adopted for the following reasons:-
(1) Special trunnions would need to be fitted to all guns.
(2) Alteration would be necessary to the crosshead of all tripods.
(3) An addition of lugs and screws would be necessary to the elevating gear.
(4) The provision of a new elevating spring catch would be necessary.

DESIGNS FOR MUZZLE PIVOT MOUNTINGS FOR MACHINE GUNS.

MUNITIONS DESIGN COMMITTEE SMALL ARMS SECTION. Minute (S)34, 18 March 1916
Messrs. Vickers submit, 10.12.15, two designs showing improvements in connection with the mountings for the Vickers’ Light Automatic Gun.
Design No. 48561 G. shows an arrangement in which the gun is mounted on a bar supported by the crosshead and elevating gear of the Service Mark IV Tripod. The attachment is so arranged as to bring the muzzle of th gun over the training centre of the tripod, thus minimising the loopholes or openings in the embrasures where the gun is placed. The supporting bar is provided with two extra brackets underneath to enable the gun, if so desired, to be quickly mounted on the tripod in the usual way, that is directly over the training centre, without detaching the gun from the bar.
The advantages of the attachment are, that no alterations are required to existing tripods or guns; it only weighs 10 lbs., and it is very simple to manufacture.
Design No. 47725 G. shows a method of mounting the gun directly on to a shield with a view of reducing the aperture in the shield, and thus affording greater protection.
The mounting consists of a detachable triangular frame mounted in sockets on the shield, and the top bar of the frame is fitted to receive the gun so as to bring the muzzle over the training centre. The rear end of the top bar is bent down and formed into a socket to receive the elevating rod. The shield is supported by two legs hinged to the shield in such a manner that they can be folded close up against the shield for convenience in transport.
The aperture in the shield is closed by means of sliding shutters, so that the opening may be adjusted to suit different angles of training.
C.I.S.A. reports to D.D.G.(S) 24.1.16.
Design 48561 G.
There are serious objections to this from the point of view of instability of the gun and inaccessibility of the elevating wheel of the tripod when the gun is mounted on the bar. Its only advantage lies in portability.
Design 47725 G.
This is not likely to be much value for the following reasons:-
1. The shield being so far forward will seriously obscure the objective.
2. The attachments to the shield are very liable to jar loose when the shield is struck.
3. Elevation and depression are much restricted with the shutter, and if the latter is drawn to one side the opening in the shield will be such that small protection will be afforded.
4. The method shown for lateral tension and fixing is poor.
The Longfield mounting is considered much more superior for trench work. It is also much cheaper to manufacture. A shield is in contemplation for this.
Experiemental Officer, School of Musketry, reports to D.D.G.(S), 25.1.16:-
Design 48561 G.
I concur with C.I.S.A. as regards inaccessibility of the elevating wheel. It is necessary to have a second man to work it. When trying the M.I.D. design with a slide of angle steel – which is similar in effect to this design – it was found that the stability of the gun so mounted was sufficient, although it had been anticipated that this would not be the case.
Design 47725 G.
I concur with C.I.S.A. as regards 2, 3, and 4, but consider his point 1 would really condemn the whole idea of a muzzle pivot. There can be only one position for a shield in any mounting, viz., at the pivot, so that the loophole may be of minimum size, and unless the pivot is at the muzzle the gun itself it partly unprotected.
I do not consider that either of these mountings has any feature which would be an improvement on the Longfield mounting or M.I.D. Muzzle Pivot Slide.
D.D.G.M.D., 28.1.16, informs Messrs. Vickers that it is not proposed to proceed any further with the adoption of these designs, and forwards this decision to the Munitions Design Committee to note.
ACTION TAKEN- Reported to D.D.G.M.D.(S.). Decision noted by the Committee.

FORWARD PIVOT MOUNTING FOR VICKERS MACHINE GUN

MUNITIONS DESIGN COMMITTEE SMALL ARMS SECTION. Minute (S)49, 15 April 1916
M.I.D. Pattern.
C.M.I.D. forwards to the Commdt. School of Musketry, 10.12.15, a model of adjustable forward pivot mounting for trial. He points out that one sent is the original model, and since its manufacture various suggestions have been made to improve it. The principal inmprovements which will be embodied in the next model, which is nearly completed, being as follows:-
(1) The section of the main bar is made of zigzag angle section, instead of a plain single section. This allows the brackets to be more securely clamped, and permits one of the brackets being so modified that the empty cartridge cases are prevented from fouling during the running of the gun.
(2) The front fixing is now made to secure by a hinge or wing nut, instead of two screws, which renders it to be more quickly detachable.
(3) The locking segment is made to assemble in one position only.
(4) The locking handle is bent to be operated more conveniently.
(5) The centre bracket is made so that the whole arrangement can be used on the “overbank” mounting if required.
It will be observed that the whole attachment can be fitted to a Mark IV tripod or an “overbank” mounting, without any alteration, and admits of the training pivot being in:-
(1) A position corresponding to that on the existing Mark IV tripod.
(2) Or in the extreme forward position.
(3) Or in any intermediate position.
The fixed portion of the attachment is secured to the gun by:-
(1) A band round the water jacket hinged and locked by a winged nut.
(2) A bolt and nut through trunnion pin hole of the gun and a bracket on the attachment.
(3) A bolt and nut through the elevating gear joint pin hole in the gun and a bracket on the attachment;
and the following advantages are claimed for the whole arrangement:-
(1) It is easily attached to the gun by the wing nut at the front, and the bolt and nut at the centre and the bolt and nut at the rear.
(2) It renders the gun more rigid so that a shield, &c., can now be used.
(3) The position of the pivot can be readily and quickly altered to suit varying conditions. All that is required is to give the trunnion pin an angular movement, thus unlocking the clamp, and the gun can then slide into any desired position.
(4) It can easily be fitted on the Mark IV tripod or overbank mounting without any alteration.
The Experimental Officer, Hythe, reports on it, 13.12.15, as follows:-
Trials have been made of a Vickers gun, Maxim gun, and Lewis gun on adapter on this mounting with Mark IV tripod. There is no specimen of the overbank mounting here.
It was found in fitting up that insufficient clearance had been allowed in the gun-metal socket which receives the trunnions of the gun. This socket was filed to give the clearance needed, but as this part of the gun is not strictly gauged, a good deal of toleration may be needed.
No bolts were sent with the mounting but the gun was attached by means of spare crosshead joint pin and elevating joint pin. There do not fit very well and there is no provision for the allowing the feathers to turn. It is thought that it would be a good thing to arrange so that these pins could be used as an alternative to the special bolts, in case the latter are lost.
On placing the gun and attachment on the Mark IV mounting it was found that there is some difficult in reaching the elevating wheel with the gun in the rear position, if the eye is looking along the sights. This will be less marked with aperture sights, but always gives trouble to a man with short arms.
It is necessary to remove the centring blocks from the Mark IV crosshead before using the attachment; it would be better to avoid this if possible.
It was found on firing that the gun was steady with no such tendency to kick up as was noticed with the Longfield mounting.
For use with the Mark IV mounting the attachment was quite successful; no difficulty was experienced in regard to empty cases as mentioned in (1) of letter of December 10th – but the remaining four points mentioned there will certainly be improvements.
D.D.G.M.D., 15.12.15, asks the Commandant, School of Musketry, to report on the mounting, comparing its efficiency with that of the disappearing mounting which appears to produce the same result when in the lowest position.
Experimental Officer, Hythe, reports, 5.1.16, as follows:-
(1) The M.I.D. Forward Pivot mounting has been tried in comparison with the overbank mounting.
(2) The following measurements indicate their respective merits as muzzle pivots:-
Overbank mounting.- Pivot point is 15 inches in rear of muzzle. Muzzle is displaced 11 inches laterally in traversing 45°.
Forward Pivot Mounting.- Pivot point is 7 inches in rear of muzzle. Muzzle is displaced 4¾ inches laterally in traversing 45°.
(3) Thus a loophope for the overbank mounting to fire through with 45° traverse would have to be about one foot wide; while for the forward pivot mounting it need only be 5 inches.
(4) It might be possible to construct a mounting on the principle of the overbank mounting which would give nearly the same results as the forward pivot mounting – to do so it would be necessary to increase the length of the arms of the overbank mounting, thereby increasing the rise and fall.
(5) Or it might be possible to combine the overbank mounting with a shortened slide on the principle of the front pivot mounting – so securing a true muzzle pivot in which the muzzle would not be displaced at all for lateral traverse. This effect can be got with the two mountings combined – but the result is clumsy; I think it would be worth while to try a combination pattern as other advantages are claimed for the overbank arrangement in regard to high angle fire.
The model was forwarded to G.H.Q. in France asking for a report on its utility compared with the Longfield forward pivot mounting.
G.H.Q., 17.3.16, report that:-
1. The Mounting is considered to be an improvement on the Longfield mounting.
2. It appears to be rather an expensive article, and it is thought that the additional cost would not be justified, especially as it is only suitable for trench warfare, and would probably be left behind as soon as moving operations take place.
3. As the Longfield Mounting is quite efficient and supplies are readily available, they do not consider that the Munitions Inventions Department pattern is required in France.
D.D.G.(S.) forwards to the Committee for their consideration, 5.4.16, a new model sent by M.I.D., and asks that a recommendation be submitted as to whether it is suitable for adoption in the event of further patterns of Forward Pivot Mountings being required by the Expeditionary Force and draws attention to the fact that it is made of tubular material which is very subject to damage.
ACTION TAKEN- Reported to D.D.G.M.D.(S.). The Committee is of opinion that the device is generally suitable, but, as the tube is liable to damage, the Committee recommends that the tube be strengthened by being filled with a wooden shaft and be subjected to a rough usage test.

Mounting, Tripod, Auxilliary, MG

This auxiliary mounted which is not intended to replace the Mark IV tripod, is for use as an alternative to it, and will in future be issued on the scale of 1 per machine gun, to cavalry and infantry units.

Using the examples in our collection, we’ve created a short video about the mount, including firing from it.

General Routine Order 1030 dated 22 July 1915
Machine Gun Mountings.
Approval is given for the issue of machine gun mountings on the abovementioned scale in addition to the mountings at present authorised:-
Light tripod mounting – 1 per gun with cavalry, infantry, motor machine gun batteries.
Disappearing mounting – 1 per cavalry regiment, infantry battalion, motor machine gun battery.
Indents should be sent to Ordnance Officers concerned, and issue will be made as supplies become available. The demands being met in the order, (1) infantry, (2) motor machine gun batteries, (3) cavalry.

Auxiliary mounting drill

1. The auxiliary (light) mountings is not intended to to replace the Mark IV tripod. The gun can be placed on the Mark IV tripod without removing the light mounting.

It is intended for use in:-

(a) The firing line.
(b) Rapid advances.
(C) Trench to trench rushes.
(d) Fighting in captured trenches when hurried changes of position are essential, etc.
(e) Trench fighting, when the gun has to be fired hurriedly from a position other than the battle emplacements, or when the Mark IV tripod has been destroyed.The gun can be carried by either one or two men, as desired. The leather straps, one on the rear cross-piece and one on the front clip band, enable Nos. 1 and 2 to carry the gun between them. They should move in single field, thus concealing the gun from the front. In this way the fact that a machine-gun is being brought up will be more easily concealed from the enemy.When in action in the open with the light mounting, No. 1 should lie on his back, with his hands to the elft of the tripod, No. 2 being on his right-hand side, supporting the firer’s back and neck with his legs.

Mark I

Mark II

Mark III

The Mk III is known to have had small feet fitted to reduce the risk of the gun sinking into soft ground.

.303-INCH VICKERS MACHINE GUN. ABOLITION OF AUXILIARY MOUNTING.

MUNITIONS DESIGN COMMITTEE SMALL ARMS SUB-COMMITTEE. Minute 275, 25 Aug 1920. 77/6/5095.
Commandant, Machine Gun School, Seaford, 10.8.20, to Secretery, W.O.
I have the honour to recommend the abolition of the auxiliary mounting for the .303-inch Vickers machine gun, for the following reasons:-

(1) This mounting was introduced during the early stages of the recent war, before the introduction of the Lewis gun, at a time when Vickers guns were used in the front line and for direct fire only.

(2) Overhead and indirect fire are not possible with the auxiliary mounting, and when mounted thereon the machine gun becomes an inferior Lewis gun. Experience gained in the recent war shows that at least 90 per cent. of the covering fire afforded by machine guns is overhead fire.

(3) The very few occasions on which the auxiliary mounting was used during the war do not justify the inclusion of an article of equipment which is not only costly but adds considerable weight to the gun. On the other hand there are several articles of equipment which it has been proved are very necessary, and which are not yet included in the scale of equipment (e.g.angle of sight instrument). I should be glad to be informed at an early date if the above proposal is agreed to, as the matter affects not only training but also the compilation of the Manual of Machine Gun Training on which I am at present engaged.

S.D.2, 13.8.20, to D. of A..
We are inclined to agree, but would like your views before giving a definite opinion.
Referred to the Small Arms Committee by D. of A. for consideration.
ACTION TAKEN-
The Committee recommends the abolition of the auxiliary mounting.
The action of the Committee has been approved by D. of A.

Monopod

Cat No. C1/BH 2031, List of changes C 3, MOUNTINGS, MONOPOD, VICKERS .303-IN. M.G., MK. 1

This monopod was used with the Armoured Fighting Vehicle versions of the Vickers machine gun – the Mk IV A, IV B, VI, VI* and VII. It’s purpose was the enable the guns to be used if they were dismounted from their armoured cars or tanks.

It does appear on the G.1098 Equipment Scale for the Mk I Vickers machine gun – the standard ground service gun – in January 1945. It is noted to be for use in Light Divisions only – this is thought to be the 52nd (Lowland) Division which was in an airportable role as 7th Battalion Manchester Regiment was the divisional machine gun battalion.

The lower portion of the monopod utilises the same components as the monopod on the Boys anti-tank rifle.

We’ve produced a short video explaining more about the monopod and demonstrating firing from it using a Mk I gun.

Overbank mounting

The overbank mounting was developed to enable the gun to remain mounted but be dropped from height so it would disappear and remain concealed other than when firing.

General Routine Order 1030 dated 22 July 1915
Machine Gun Mountings.
Approval is given for the issue of machine gun mountings on the abovementioned scale in addition to the mountings at present authorised:-
Light tripod mounting – 1 per gun with cavalry, infantry, motor machine gun batteries.
Disappearing mounting – 1 per cavalry regiment, infantry battalion, motor machine gun battery.
Indents should be sent to Ordnance Officers concerned, and issue will be made as supplies become available. The demands being met in the order, (1) infantry, (2) motor machine gun batteries, (3) cavalry.

Cat No. C1/BD 2150, List of changes A 3312, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I – With Mk. IV tripod mounting elevating and crosshead joint pins with securing chain; for use in conjunction with Mk. IV M.G. tripod mounting
Cat No. C1/BD 2151, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Blocks, clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 2152, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Bushes, tripod links
Cat No. C1/BD 2153, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Dogs, clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 2154, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Handles, clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 2155, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Links, Connecting
Cat No. C1/BD 2156, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Links, Elevating
Cat No. C1/BD 2157, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Links, Tripod, Left-hand
Cat No. C1/BD 2158, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Links, Tripod, Right-hand
Cat No. C1/BD 2159, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Nuts, pin, axis, stay tube
Cat No. C1/BD 2160, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Pins, axis, stay, tube
Cat No. C1/BD 2161, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Plugs, stay tube
Cat No. C1/BD 2162, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 2163, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Keeper, Bush, Tripod links
Cat No. C1/BD 2164, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Keeper, clamp screw
Cat No. C1/BD 2165, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Stop, clamp handle
Cat No. C1/BD 2166, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Sockets, end, stay tube
Cat No. C1/BD 2167, MOUNTINGS, OVERBANK, M.G., MK. I, Tubes, stay

Trench Mountings

The trench mounting was a development of the ‘Longfield Mounting’, which became the Mk. I mounting. The purpose of it was to enable the gun to be mounted in a fixed position, with the pivot at the muzzle, so that the minimum size loophole coule be used with the maximum available traverse.

Cat No. C1/BD 2170, List of changes B4255, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I – Muzzle pivoting; arranged to take the cross-head of Mountings, tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV
Cat No. C1/BD 2172, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I, Arms traversing – With traversing arm and crosshead clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 2186, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I, Plates, screw, crosshead, clamp – With 2 guide pins and plate screw
Cat No. C1/BD 2188, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I, Screws, clamp, crosshead – With plate with 2 guide pins and plate screw
Cat No. C1/BD 2193, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I, Screws, Plate, clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 2195, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I* – Muzzle pivoting; consisting of traversing arc and arm; cradle; elevating gear and casing band
Cat No. C1/BD 2196, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. I* – Arms, traversing – Complete with traversing slide and carrier bracket
Cat No. C1/BD 2175, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I and I*, Bolts, pivot, front – With 2 nuts and 1 washer
Cat No. C1/BD 2179, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I and I*, Clamps, Stop – With screw with vice pin and screw eye
Cat No. C1/BD 2180, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I and I*, Clamps, Traversing arm – With clamp screw with plate and screw and indicators with two screws
Cat No. C1/BD 2181, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I and I*, Indicators – With 2 screws
Cat No. C1/BD 2187, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I and I*, Plates, screw, traversing arm clamp – With plate screw
Cat No. C1/BD 2192, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I and I*, Screws, indicator
Cat No. C1/BD 8854, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II – Muzzle pivoting, consisting of traversing arc and arm; cradle; elevating gear and casing band
Cat No. C1/BD 9732, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Arms, traversing – Complete with traversing slide and carrier bracket
Cat No. C1/BD 9733, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Bolts, pivot, front – With 2 lock-nuts and 1 washer
Cat No. C1/BD 9734, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Chains, clamp stop
Cat No. C1/BD 9735, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Clamps, Traversing Arm – With clamp screw with plate and screw and indicator with 2 screws
Cat No. C1/BD 9736, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Clamps, Stop – With screw
Cat No. C1/BD 9737, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Indicators – With 2 screws
Cat No. C1/BD 9738, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Plates, clamp – With screw
Cat No. C1/BD 9739, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mk. II, Screws, clamp, plate
Cat No. C1/BD 9741, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Bands, casing – Consisting of upper and lower bands; saddle; clamping lever; clampring screw; axis pin and hinge pin
Cat No. C1/BD 9742, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Bands, casing, upper – With leather liner and “T” joint assembled
Cat No. C1/BD 9743, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Bolts, Fixing shield – With nut and split pin
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Bolts, Jamming, elevating gear (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C1/BD 9744, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Bolts, Joint, elevating gear – With nut and split pin
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Bushes, wheel, elevating (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Chains, pin, joint, elevating gear, Mk. II (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C1/BD 9745, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Cradles – With 2 bolts, 2 nuts and 2 split pins
Cat No. C1/BD 9746, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Distance-pieces, carrier bracket
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Gears, elevating “B” (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C2/BG 0864, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Levers, clamping, casing band – To be demands as “Mounts, field, Vickers .303-in. M.G., Mk. I – Levers, clamping”
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Links, split (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Loops, pin, joing, elevating gear (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Nuts, bush, wheel, elevating(Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C1/BD 9747, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Pins, Joint – With loop
Cat No. C1/BD 9748, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Pins, Tumbler – With 2 screws
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Pointers, elevating(Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C1/BD 9749, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Saddles, band, casing – With band and leather liner assembled
Cat No. C2/BG 0868, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Screws, Clamping, casing band – To be demanded as “Mounts, field, Vickers .303-in. M.G., Mk. I – Screws, lever, clamping”
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Screws, elevating (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C1/BD 8848, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Shields
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Washers, Chain, elevating gear joint pin (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Mks. I* and II, Washers, Elevating nut (Component common to and will be demanded under “Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV.”)
Cat No. C1/BD 2171, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Arcs, traversing – With graduated strip 4 angle plates and 2 stop bolts, each with nut
Cat No. C1/BD 2173, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Bars, ground, Front – With 2 bolts each with nut
Cat No. C1/BD 2174, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Bars, ground, Rear – With 2 bolts each with nut
Cat No. C1/BD 2176, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Bolts, Bar, ground, Front
Cat No. C1/BD 2177, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Bolts, Bar, ground, Rear, and legs
Cat No. C1/BD 2178, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Bolts, Stop, traversing arc
Cat No. C1/BD 2182, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Legs, Centre – With 2 bolts each with nut
Cat No. C1/BD 2183, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Legs, Left – With 2 bolts each with nut
Cat No. C1/BD 2184, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Legs, Right – With 2 bolts each with nut
Cat No. C1/BD 2185, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Plates, front pivot
Cat No. C1/BD 2191, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Screws, Graduated strip
Cat No. C1/BD 2189, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Screws, Clamp, Stop – With vice pin
Cat No. C1/BD 2190, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Screws, Clamp, Traversing arm – With clamp plate and clamp plate screw
Cat No. C1/BD 2194, MOUNTINGS, TRENCH, M.G., Strips, graduated, traversing arc – Brass; with 8 brass screws. Supplied un-drilled for local fitting

Adapter, Vickers MG, Mk. I

Cat No. C2/BG 0001, Lists of Changes A 9602, ADAPTERS, VICKERS, M.G., MK. I, With elevating gear joint pin. For mounting A.F.V. patterns of .303-in. and .5-in. Vickers M.Gs. on Mountings, Tripod, .303-in. M.G., Mk. IV. For instructional purposes only.

It is designed for mounting A.F.V. patterns of .303-in. and .5-in. guns on the Mk. IV .303-in. tripod mounting.

Mount, Field, Vickers .303-in. M.G., Mk. I

The field mount is for use in conjunction with the No. 4 M.G. shoulder piece to enable the .303-in. Marks IV or VI to be used outside the armoured fighting vehicle in case of emergency.

It consists of a gun band secured to a saddle to which two telescopic legs are jointed.

Cat No. C2/BM 0860, List of changes A 7766, MOUNTS, FIELD, VICKERS, .303-IN., M.G., MK. I – Consisting of saddle complete; and 2 legs each with hinge screw with split pin, clamping screw, shoe with pin, and spring clip with bolt and nut
Cat No. C1/BE 2451, …Bolts, clip, legs – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. C1/BE 2452, …Clips, leg – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. C1/BE 2458 and 2459, …Legs – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. C2/BG 0864, List of changes B 4255, …Levers, clamping – With screw assembled. Also for Mountings, trench, M.G., Mks. I* and II
Cat No. C1/BE 2460, …Nuts, bolt, clip, leg – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. C1/BE 2462, …Pins, Hinge, shoe – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. G2/GB 1550, …Pins, Lever, clamping – To be demanded as “Steel, tool, rods, bright, No. 20”
Cat No. G1/GA 0821, …Pins, Split, Screw, clamping lever – To be demanded as “Pins, keep, split, 3/32-in. x 1-in.”
Cat No. G1/GA 0801, …Pins, Split, Screw, hinge, legs – To be demanded as “Pins, keep, split, 1/16-in. x 1-in.”
Cat No. C1/BE 2468, …Screws, Clamping, legs – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. C1/BE 2469, …Screws, Hinge, legs – – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”
Cat No. C2/BG 0868, List of changes B 4255, …Screws, Lever, clamping – With split keep pin. Also for Mountings, trench, M.G., Mks. I* and II
Cat No. C1/BE 2475, …Shoes – To be demanded under “Mounts, field, Lewis, .303-in. M.G., Mk. III”

Fortification mountings

Cat No. C1/BD 6352, EQUIPMENTS, Mounting, loophole, M.G., Mk. I, Comprising:- Frames, mounting, loophole, M.G., Mk. I (Qty 2); Mounting, loophole, M.G., Mk. I (Qty 1)
Cat No. C1/BD 8955, FRAMES, MOUNTING, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I – With traversing arc complete
Cat No. C1/BD 8978, FRAMES, MOUNTING, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Arcs, Traversing – With 2 stops; 2 nuts and 2 washers
Cat No. G1/GA 0702, FRAMES, MOUNTING, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Nuts, Arc, Traversing – To be demanded as “Nuts, hexagon, ½-in.”
Cat No. C1/BD 8973, FRAMES, MOUNTING, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Stops, Traversing
Cat No. G1/GA 1740, FRAMES, MOUNTING, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Washers, Arc, Traversing – To be demanded as “Washers, blot, or rivet, steel, ½-in.”
Cat No. C1/BD 8952, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I – Consisting of cradle and Nos. 1 and 3 gun bars
Cat No. C1/BD 8961, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, No. 1 – For Vickers .303-in., Mk. I and .30-in., U.S.A., M.G.
Cat No. C1/BD 4164, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, No. 1, Deflectors, Cartridge – With 4 rivets &Frac18;-in. diameter, countersunk head
Cat No. C1/BD 4173, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Bands – For Nos. 1 and 4 gun bars
Cat No. C1/BD 4175, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Bands, Long – With band pin and 1 split pins
Cat No. C1/BD 4176, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Bands, Short – With wing nut and washed; band pin and 2 split pins
Cat No. C1/BD 4177, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Catches, Left – With rivet 3/16-in. dia., countersunk head
Cat No. C1/BD 4178, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Catches, Right – With rivet 3/16-in. diameter, countersunk head
Cat No. C1/BD 4179, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Linings, Body – With 3 rivets 1/8-in. diameter, countersunk head. For Nos. 1 and 4 gun bars
Cat No. C1/BD 4181, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Pins, Band – For Nos. 1 and 4 guns bars; With 2 split pins 3/32-in. diameter
Cat No. C1/BD 4182, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Pins, Joint – For Nos. 1 and 4 guns bars
Cat No. G1/GA 0864, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Pins, Retaining, Catch – For Nos. 1 and 4 guns bars; To be demanded as “Pins, keep, split 3/16-in. x 1-in.
Cat No. G1/GA 0821, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bars, gun, Pins, Split, Band – For Nos. 1 and 4 guns bars; To be demanded as “Pins, keep, split 3/32-in. x 1-in.
Cat No. C1/BD 4183, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Bolts, pivot, swivel, lower
Cat No. C1/BD 4184, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Clamps, cradle – Complete with level; split pin; washer and double-coiled spring washer
Cat No. C1/BD 4185, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Cradles – With clamp and elevating screw complete
Cat No. C1/BD 4186, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Handles, screw, elevating – Wood. With 5/16-in. B.S.F. bolt; nut and washer
Cat No. C1/BD 4187, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Levers, clamp
Cat No. C1/BD 4188, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Clamping, swivel, lower
Cat No. C1/BD 4189, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Elevating – With upper and lower swivels, and handle assembled
Cat No. C1/BD 4190, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Swivels, Lower – With 2 pivot bolts and clamping screw
Cat No. C1/BD 4191, MOUNTINGS, LOOPHOLE, M.G., MK. I, Swivels, Upper

Cone mountings

Cat No. C1/BD 2012, List of changes A3312, HANDSPIKES, HOLDING-DOWN RING, MK. I – Steel; for all M.G. cone mountings
Cat No. C1/BD 2135, List of changes A3312, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I
Cat No. C1/BD 2136, List of changes 10827, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Clips, crosshead, Mk. II
Cat No. C1/BD 2137, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Pins, Joint, Crosshead
Cat No. C1/BD 2138, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Pins, Joint, Elevating gear – With spring split key
Cat No. C1/BD 2139, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Pins, Securing, Crosshead – With M.G. chain and 2 M.G. “S” hooks
Cat No. C1/BD 2140, List of changes A3312, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Pins, Split, Securing, Shield
Cat No. C1/BD 2141, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Keeper, Sleeve
Cat No. C1/BD 2142, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Set, Nut, Pin, Joint, Crosshead
Cat No. C1/BD 2143, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Screws, Spring, Handle, Clamping
Cat No. C1/BD 2144, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Sleeves – With gib; keeper screw, and clamp screw with handle; pawl and spring
Cat No. C1/BD 2145, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Springs, Handle, Clamping, Sleeve
Cat No. C1/BD 2146, MOUNTINGS, CONE, M.G., MK. I, Springs, Stop, Brake
Cat No. C1/BD 2505, PLUGS, Securing, holding-down ring, No. 1, Mk. I – Gun-metal; for 5/8-in. screws
Cat No. C1/BD 2506, PLUGS, Securing, holding-down ring, No. 2, Mk. I – Gun-metal; for ¾-in. screws
Cat No. C1/BD 2551, List of changes A 3312, RINGS, HOLDING-DOWN, MK. I – With five 5/8-in. diameter and five ¾-in. diameter screws for wood, or five 5/8-in. and five ¾-in. diameter screws for metal; for cone mountings
Cat No. C1/BD 2580, List of changes 14085, SHIELDS, GUN, MK. III, For Vickers .303-in. M.G. on cone mountings

Gate mounting

Cat No. C1/BE 9320, List of changes B5105, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I – Without clamping bracket
Cat No. C1/BD 9329, List of changes B5195, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I, Brackets, A.A., Clamping – Complete with clamping screw
Cat No. C1/BD 9322, List of changes B5195, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I, Brackets, A.A., Pivot – With plate; 6 bolts; 6 nuts; and 6 spring washers
Cat No. C1/BD 9326, List of changes B5195, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I, Pins, 1-in. – With “S” hook and chain
Cat No. C1/BD 9327, List of changes B5195, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I, Plates, strap, mounting
Cat No. C1/BD 9331, List of changes B5195, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I, Screws, bracket, clamping – With pad and pin
Cat No. C1/BD 9328, List of changes B5195, MOUNTINGS, GATE, A.A., MK. I, Straps, mounting – With plate

Anti-Aircraft

The development of anti-aircraft mounts for the Vickers was something that was frequently trialled and development from the Great War until the Second World War, when small arms anti-aircraft fire was largely obsolete due to the speed of aircraft. The simplest mechanism was to reverse the Vickers on the Mark IV mounting so it had greater elevation on the crosshead. Other developments involved unofficial developments to start with, and progressively more formal systems.

Unit-made

The simplest mechanism was for a unit to develop their own system to improve the elevation and the traverse of the Vickers so it could track a fast-moving aircraft faster than the Mark IV tripod on its own allowed. It needed to be higher as well, or the No. 1 lower than the pivot point at least – the head height of the No. 1 needed to be below the sights when the gun was pointing to the sky.

In the Great War, there were a range of locally-made unit mountings using materials they had to hand. The most common of these incorporates a wheel from the limbered wagon or a General Service wagon. The axle for the wheel was placed in the ground, the wheel put on the stub and then the gun fixed to the wheel somehow.

On 15 October 1915, the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry recorded their design for this in their war diary. The description reads:

The following description of anti aircraft mounting for machine guns was submitted by Captain M Freeman, Machine Gun Officer:-
“The attached sketch practically explains itself. The material required is as follows:-
7/8″ iron rods to support two front legs. Front tripod legs are fixed by clamps, bolts and nuts. Rods pass through holes bored in the rim of the wheel and are secured by bolts and washers. A second cart wheel, about 3′-6″ diameter and 1/2 an axle bar – axle bar [ragged] and set in concrete. Rear leg is fitted to the hub of the wheel and if necessary, clamped to hub. When gun is in action, the tripod traversing gear is clamped and the traversing performed with the cart wheel, this ensuring the gun being level when fired. The sketch shows the elevating gear attached to the gun. If it is found necessary to depress the gun beyond the limit of the elevating gear, the gun can be fired with the elevating gear disconnected. In fact, in practice, it has been found easier and quick to follow an aeroplane without using the elevating gear of the tripod.
WO 95/1564/1-3 1 Bn Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry 1914 Aug – 1915 Dec

WO 95/1564/1-3 1 Bn Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry 1914 Aug – 1915 Dec

Local Pattern Mounts

Some of these were officially endorsed and included within Small Arms Training manuals for Australia,

Mountings, Seat, A.A.

This seems to have been a seated mount that fitted into the rear of the 15-cwt truck and could be used with a single Vickers machine gun. It may have been a universal mounting for the light machine guns in service with the British Army at the time – the Lewis and the Bren.

The gun arm assembly, that supported the weight of the gun, was balanced using a spring. Because this could be damaged whilst the vehicle was moving without a gun on it, there was a specific Army Council Instruction issued (number 66 of 1939) requiring it to be released when driving.

Army Council Instruction 1151 of September 1940 provided further instructions on issue and fitting of the mounting in trucks.

A further Army Council Instruction (1413) was issued in late October 1940 about the care of these mountings. They were being left on vehicles and exposed to the elements without care and attention, including cleaning. It was a reminder that they were considered part of the weapons and should be cleaned and inspected daily in the same way as the weapons themselves.

Radial Twin Vickers A.A. Mounting

A specific Small Arms Training Manual is available for this mounting.

War Office contract records show that there were orders placed for 3,750 ‘Mountings, twin with A.A. sights’ placed with Air Ducts Ltd of Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex (Contractor Code ‘S 135’), and an unknown quantity of ‘Mountings, twin, Motley Stork’ placed with Hydran Products Ltd of Gresham Road, Staines, Middlesex (Contractor Code ‘S 54’).

Mounting, Tripod, Bren .303-in. M.G.

This was adapted from the Bren gun tripod for use with the Vickers by the Australian 2/2nd MG Battalion as part of their preparations for action in the jungle of Papua New Guinea and Bougainville Islands, but does not seem to have found field use.

For use, it required two specially constructed mounting adapters. The front mounting point of the tripod fits a band to go around the barrel casing, similar to that used on the monopods and auxiliary mounts. The rear mounting point fits an adaptor that then connects to the rear mounting point on the gun – as used for the elevating joint pin on the Mk. IV tripod.

Armoured Fighting Vehicle use

Pads for AFV use

Cat No. C2/BG 0870, List of changes A 7766, PADS, Cheek, M.G., No. 1 – Leather; stuffed with horsehair. With 2 steel clips and quick-release fastener. For Mks. IV A and IV B Vickers .303-in. M.Gs.
Cat No. C2/BG 0871, List of changes A 9478, PADS, Cheek, M.G., No. 2 – Leather; stuffed with horsehair. Consisting of inner pad with 2 steel clips and quick-release fastener; outer pad; and 5 snap fasteners. For Mks. IV A and IV B Vickers .303-in. M.Gs.

The No. 2 is used on Mks. IV A and IV B .303-in. guns, and consists of two leather pads stuffed with horsehair and joined together by means of five snap fasteners. Two steel clips are arranged to engage with the loops on the rear cover of the gun, the bottom of the pad being secured by a quick-release fastener which engages on a loop on the left hand side of the bottom plate of the gun.

Cat No. C2/BG 0872, List of changes A 9478, PADS, Cheek, M.G., No. 3 – Leather; stuffed with horsehair. Consisting og inner pad with loop and strap; outer pad; and 5 snap fasteners. For Mks. VI, VI* and VII Vickers .303-in. M.Gs.

The No. 3 is used on Mks. VI, VI* and VII .303-in. guns and is similar in design to the No. 2 except that for attachment to the gun, a loop replaces the two clips and a leather strap is provided in lieu of the quick-release fastener. The loop engages on a stud on the rear cover of the gun and the leather strap on a stud on the underside of the fusee spring box.

Cat No. C2/BG 0876, List of changes A 7766, PADS, Rear-crosspiece, M.G., No. 1 – Consisting of gunmetal body with spring catch and screw; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 8 securing screws.
Cat No. C2/BG 0877, …Catches, spring, Mk. II – Also for No. 4 Shoulder-piece, M.G.
Cat No. C2/BG 0878, …Screws, Catch – Also for Mks. I and II Guards, crank-handle, M.G. and Nos. 4 and 6 Shoulder-pieces, M.G.
Cat No. C2/BG 0879, …Screws, Securing cover – Also for Nos. 2, 3, 5 and 6 Shoulder-pieces, M.G.
Cat No. C2/BG 0880, …Washers, screw, cover – Also for Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 Shoulder-pieces, M.G.

This pad is for Mks. IV A and IV B .303-in. Vickers machine guns when mounted in No. 5 mountings and is used when a shoulder-piece is not required. It consists of a gunmetal body with flanges to engage the rear-crosspiece of the gun and is retained by a spring-loaded catch. A sponge rubber pad is screwed to the rear of the body by a leather cover and eight screws.

Shoulder-pieces

Several shoulder-pieces are provided for use with A.F.V. pattern guns and in addition to the use that the name implies are used for balancing the various mountings when the guns are mounted. The shoulder-pieces are all designed to assemble to the rear-crosspiece of any A.F.V. Vickers gun and with the exception of the No. 4 and No. 6, which are of light alloy, have gunmetal bodies. They are shaped to fit the shoulder, a sponge rubber pad being secured on the rear by means of a leather cover and are provided with a spring-loaded catch for retention to the gun.

Cat No. C2/BG 0920, List of changes A 7766, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 1, “A” – Consisting of gunmetal body weighted with lead; with spring catch; plunger and spring; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 10 securing screws
Cat No. C2/BG 0921, List of changes A 7766, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 1, “B” – Consisting of gunmetal body weighted with lead; with spring catch; plunger and spring; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 10 securing screws
Cat No. C2/BG 0922, List of changes A 7766, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 1, Screws, securing, cover
Cat No. C2/BG 0925, List of changes A 7766, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 2 – Consisting of gunmetal body weighted with lead; spring catch; plunger and spring; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 10 securing screws
Cat No. C2/BG 0930, List of changes A 7766, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 3 – Consisting of gunmetal body; spring catch; plunger and spring; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 16 securing screws.

The No. 3, having two cavities into which counterweights can be inserted and secured by screws, is used on certain mountings to obtain balance.

Shoulder-piece	A.F.V. Vickers guns	Mountings
No. 3	Mks. IVA and IVB .303-in.	Nos. 6, 7 and 8
No. 3	Mks. VI, VI*, and VII .303-in.	No. 10
No. 3	Mk. II .5-in.	No. 6

Cat No. C2/BG 0934, List of changes A 7766, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 4 – Consisting of aluminium body with spring catch and screw; and telescopic leg, comprising inner tube with plug and base, and outer tube with clamping screw with nut, washer and keep pin. For use in conjunction with “Mount, field, Vickers, .303-in. M.G., Mk. I”

Shoulder-piece	A.F.V. Vickers guns	Mountings
No. 4	All	—

Cat No. C2/BG 0877, List of changes B 6676, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 4, Catches, spring, Mk. II – To be demanded under “Pads, rear-crosspiece, M.G., No. 1”
Cat No. C2/BG 0935, List of changes B 6676, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 4, Screws, clamping – With nut, washer and keep pin
Cat No. C2/BG 0940, List of changes A 9863, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 5 – Consisting of gunmetal body; spring catch; plunger and spring; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 16 securing screws

Shoulder-piece	A.F.V. Vickers guns	Mountings
No. 5 (obsolescent)	Mks. IV .5-in.	Nos. 8 and 9

Cat No. C2/BG 0945, List of changes A 9863, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., No. 6 – Consisting of light alloy body; spring catch and screw; and sponge rubber pad with leather cover with 16 securing screws

Shoulder-piece	A.F.V. Vickers guns	Mountings
No. 6	Mks. V .5-in.	Nos. 8 and 9

Cat No. C2/BG 0946, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., Catches, spring, Mk. I – For Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 shoulder-pieces and Mks. I and II Guards, crank handle, M.G.
Cat No. C2/BG 0947, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., Plungers – For Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 5 shoulder-pieces
Cat No. C2/BG 0878, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., Screws, Catch – To be demanded under “Pads, rear-crosspiece, M.G., No. 1”. For Nos. 4 and 6 shoulder-pieces.
Cat No. C2/BG 0879, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., Screws, Securing cover – To be demanded under “Pads, rear-crosspiece, M.G., No. 1”. For Nos. 2, 3, 5 and 6 shoulder-pieces.
Cat No. C2/BG 0950, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., Springs, plunger – For Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 5 shoulder-pieces
Cat No. C2/BG 0880, SHOULDER PIECES, M.G., Washers, screw cover – For Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 shoulder-pieces. To be demanded under “Pads, rear-crosspiece, M.G., No. 1”

Counterweights for AFV use

Cat No. C2/BG 0086, List of changes A 7793, COUNTERWEIGHTS, M.G., No. 1 – Consisting of lead weight; 2 securing plates and 4 bolts each with nut and keep pin. For use with Mk. I Vickers .303-in. M.G., in No. 3, Mks. II, II A, III and IV and No. 4, Mk. I M.G. mtgs.
Cat No. C2/BG 0087, …Bolts
Cat No. C2/BG 0088, …Plates

COUNTERWEIGHTS, Shoulder-piece, M.G. – For use with No. 3 M.G. shoulder-piece

Cat No. C2/BG 0089, List of changes B 1155, Lower – Lead; 6-lb.; with long and short screws
Cat No. C2/BG 0090, …Screws, long
Cat No. C2/BG 0091, …Screws, short

Guards

Cat No. C2/BG 0125, List of changes A 9863, GUARDS, Crank handle, M.G., Mk. I – Consisting of body with spring catch; and shield with catch, spring, and spindle with screw, nut and spring washer
Cat No. C2/BG 0126, …Screws, shield spindle
Cat No. C2/BG 0127, …Shields – With catch and catch spring assembled
Cat No. C2/BG 0128, …Spindles, shield – With screw, nut and spring washer
Cat No. C2/BG 0129, …Springs, shield catch – With 2 rivets
Cat No. C2/BG 0130, …Washers, spring, shield spindle
Cat No. C2/BG 0131, List of changes A 9863, GUARDS, Crank handle, M.G., Mk. II – Consisting of body with spring catch; and shield with catch, spring and axis screw, with nut and spring washer
Cat No. C2/BG 0132, …Screws, shield sprindle – With cap, nut and spring washer
Cat No. C2/BG 0133, …Shields – With catch and catch spring assembled
Cat No. C2/BG 0134, …Springs, shield catch
Cat No. C2/BG 0135, …Washers, spring, shield spindle screw
Cat No. C2/BG 0946, Shoulder-pieces, M.G., Catches, Spring, Mk. I
Cat No. C2/BG 0878, Pads, rear-crosspiece, M.G., No. 1, Screws, Catch

Two patterns are provided. The object of the guard is to protect the tank commander against injury from the moving crank handle, and is used with A.F.V. guns mounted in No. 10 mountings, the Mk. I guard being for use with Mks. IV A, IV B, VI, VI* and VII .303-in. guns and the Mk. IV .5-in. gun, and the Mk. II for use with the Mk. V .5-in. gun only.

The guards, which are used only on the right hand gun in the mounting, are similar in design and consist of a gunmetal body and a shield for the crank handle. The body assembles to the rear-crosspiece in a similar manner to shoulder-piece. The design of the shield allows it to rotate downward, thereby providing access to the crank handle when necessary.

Cat No. C2/BG 0140, List of changes A 7772, GUARDS, Fusee, Vickers, .5-in. M.G. – Consisting of adapter with screwed stud and wing nut; pad bracket; pad; and long and short pad pins
Cat No. C2/BG 0141, …Adapters – With screwed nut and wing nut
Cat No. C2/BG 0142, …Brackets, pad – With long and short pad pins
Cat No. C2/BG 0143, …Nuts, wing
Cat No. C2/BG 0144, …Pads – Leather, stuffed with horsehair
Cat No. C2/BG 0145, …Pins, pad, long
Cat No. C2/BG 0146, …Pins, pad, short

This guard is provided for use with the Mk. II .5-in. gun when mounted in Lanchester armoured cars and is designed to protect the firer’s face from the exposed fusee. The guard consists of an adaptor and bracket, the latter having a sheet metal guard rivetted to it. A cushioned leather pad is secured to the guard by means of two pins, the guard being secured to the resistance piece of the gun by a wing nut.

Cat No. C2/BG 0150, List of changes A 7766, GUARDS, Shoulder-piece, M.G., Mk. I – With hinge pin with keep pin, plunger and spring (unassembled). For use with Nos. 2 and 3 M.G. shoulder-pieces
Cat No. C2/BG 0151, …Plungers
Cat No. C2/BG 0152, …Pins, hinge – With keep pin (plain)
Cat No. C2/BG 0153, …Springs

This guard is used in conjunction with the No. 2 or No. 3 shoulder-piece on Mk. IV A or IV B .303-in. guns when mounted in No. 6 mountings. The guard is designed to protect the face of the firer from injury by the moving crank handle. It consists of a metal plate bent at right angles at the top and hinged at the rear end to a boss on the shoulder-piece. A spring-loaded plunger bearing on the hinge holds the guard in position.

AFV gun mounting parts

Cat No. C2/BG 0544, GUNS, MACHINE, VICKERS, .5-IN., MK. V, Screws, Plate, cover, mounting base

Deflector cases

Deflector, cartridge case, Vickers .303-in. M.G., Mk. III

This deflector is used with Mk. I .303-in. guns when mounted in A.F.Vs. to collect the ejected cartridge cases. It consists of a steel rectangular frame with projecting strips at the front and rear for attachment to the gun and a canvas bag which has three openings, one on each side near the top to facilitate the clearing of stoppages, and one at the bottom for the removal of spent cases; all the openings are closed by patent “zipp” fasteners. The bag, which is secured to the frame by rivets and washers has an internal steel stiffening band.

Sources:

Goldsmith, 1994
Hobart, 1971
Machine Gun Training Centre, 1918
Skennerton, 1988
State Library, Victoria, Australia
The National Archives, WO 95/1564/1-3 1 Bn Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry 1914 Aug – 1915 Dec.
The National Archives, WO 293/2, Army Council Instructions 1915 Janaury to June.
The National Archives, WO 293/24, Army Council Instructions 1939.
The National Archives, WO 293/25, Army Council Instructions 1940.
War Office, 1914; 1917; 1918; 1940a; 1942; 1944c; 1949a