WW2 German Flak 88mm (8.8cm) High-Explosive Inert Shell with Brass Casing Dated 1939 (Original)
SKU: 391
Type: Original
Availability: In-Stock
Manufacturer: OSW/rbp
Date Manufactured: 1939
Serial Number: 6347
Model: Flak/88mm
Caliber: 88mm (8.8cm)
Length: Approx. 36 inches (91 cm)
Weight: Approx. 20-30 lbs (inert configuration)
Effective Range: Maximum of 14,700 meters (48,200 ft)
Markings: 13 SK 6 44, Waffenamt Nazi Eagle, OSW PrZ, rbp
Condition: Excellent
Price: $1500.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: DG-100
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description
This is an Original WW2 German Deactivated Flak 88mm High-Explosive Inert Shell with Brass Casing Dated 1939.
History
The 8.8cm FlaK (Flugabwehrkanone) gun system began as a high-altitude anti-aircraft artillery system but became famous for its exceptional accuracy and versatility which led to its widespread use as an anti-tank weapon across European fronts. The 8.8cm gun provided effective aircraft interception up to 8,000 meters while also delivering penetration through armored vehicles at distant ranges during battles in North Africa and France and on the Eastern Front.
Shell Description:
- 88mm (8.8cm) is the size of this shell.
- The shell features a High-Explosive (HE) projectile with inert and deactivated nose-fuze design.
- The brass shell casing shows arsenal stamps and lot numbers and production dates and acceptance marks.
- Overall Length: Approx. 36 inches (91 cm) • Weight: Approx. 20-30 lbs (inert configuration)
- The HE shell projectile contains stenciled or engraved markings with Sprgr. L/4.5 or FES (iron driving band) along with color codes showing original high-explosive content.
- Casing Base Stamps: This part displays maker codes (e.g., P131, eyr), ordnance acceptance eagle, manufacturing year (e.g., 1942), and case model (8,8cm Flak 18).
Function in Combat:
The HE shell was designed to detonate on impact or via timed/proximity fuze which produced lethal fragmentation for destroying aircraft or soft ground targets. The combination of AZ23/28 fuze with this shell became effective for destroying bomber formations and entrenched infantry through airburst operations.
Collector and Display Significance:
Original 8.8cm Flak HE shells remain highly desired by collectors and museums because of their historical value and impressive appearance. The combination of the heavy brass casing with the streamlined projectile makes it a museum-grade artifact which showcases one of Germany's most feared and iconic artillery systems from the Second World War. The complete demilitarization process of this piece meets demilitarization standards thus making it safe and legal for historical display purposes. The German 8.8cm Flak gun stands as a powerful demonstration of German engineering excellence and battlefield achievement during World War II.
