WWII German Panzer Artillery Marked "bmj" Binoculars (Original)
SKU: WWII GERMAN BMJ PANZER ARTILLERY BINOCULARS
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Hensoldt & Sohne
Size / Dimensions:
Materials / Construction: Durable Metal Housing
Power: 10x50
Condition: Good
PRICE: $200.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: 70
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This Original German WWII 10x50 Dienstglas Binoculars Marked "bmj" by Hensoldt & Sohne.
These classic 10x50 German military-issue binoculars were used by Panzer units, artillery, and high-ranking officers. They are marked "bmj," indicating they were manufactured by Hensoldt & Sohne Werke A-G of Wetzlar. The binoculars feature a black, semi-rough textured finish, although some paint is missing due to age. On one side of the bridge, the binoculars are marked with the "+" symbol and the manufacturer code "bmj." On the other side, they are inscribed with "Dienstglas" and "10x50." Both diopter adjustments operate smoothly, and the eye cups are free of chips or dings. The optics are excellent on the right side but slightly hazy on the left, likely needing cleaning. These binoculars also include a rangefinder on the lens.
History
During World War II, precision optics played a crucial role in battlefield operations, particularly for artillery and armored divisions. Among the many optical instruments produced for the German Wehrmacht, binoculars marked with the code 'bmj' stand out as historically significant and highly sought after by collectors and historians alike.
Manufacturer Identification: 'bmj'
The marking 'bmj' on German military equipment corresponds to the manufacturer Hensoldt & Söhne, a renowned optics company based in Wetzlar, Germany. Hensoldt was known for producing high-quality binoculars, rifle scopes, and other precision instruments essential for military operations. The factory code 'bmj' was assigned under Germany's wartime secrecy protocols to obscure the origin of military equipment.
Design and Specifications
The 'bmj'-marked binoculars were typically 10x50 or 7x50 models, offering excellent light transmission and clarity—critical for low-light or dusk operations. These binoculars often featured:
- Porro Prism Design: For better depth perception.
- Rugged Construction: Durable metal housing to endure harsh battlefield conditions.
- Graticule Reticle: For distance estimation and artillery targeting.
- Rubber Eyecups: To improve comfort and reduce light leakage.
Some models were specifically designed for Panzer (tank) crews, enabling them to observe enemy movements from within the safety of armored vehicles.
Role in Panzer and Artillery Divisions
For Panzer divisions, binoculars were indispensable tools for tank commanders and spotters. They allowed crews to identify enemy positions, coordinate attacks, and direct artillery fire accurately. Artillery units also relied heavily on binoculars for long-range targeting and spotting fall-of-shot impacts.
The clarity and robustness of 'bmj' binoculars ensured their effectiveness even under extreme battlefield stress, including constant vibration, temperature changes, and rough handling.
Markings and Serial Numbers
Aside from the 'bmj' code, these binoculars often included additional markings:
- The Reichsadler (Imperial Eagle) insignia.
- A serial number for tracking and quality control.
- Occasionally, the model specification (e.g., 7x50).
