WW2 Original US M1917 Browning Machine Gun Transportable Water Can with Canvas Strap
SKU: US M1917 BROWNING MACHINE GUN TRANSPORTABLE WATER CAN & STRAP
Original/Reproduction: Original
Availability: In-stock
Manufacturer: Westinghouse
Year Manufactured: 1940s
Model: M1 Steam Condensing Can
Serial Number: N/A
Material: Steel, Canvas, khaki
Size: 13'X5"
Condition: Very Good
Price: $250.00
Seller Type: WW2C
Seller ID: JMW
Seller Code: DG-40
Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Description:
This is an original U.S. large round water can which had multiple uses but was notable used for the Model 1917 Machine Gun as a water condensing can and to transport fresh cool water to machine guns to prevent the barrels from overheating. It is steel construction and measures 13 inches in diameter and 5 inches wide. It comes complete with the original khaki web canvas carry strap. This water can is in very good condition, with 98% of the original paint.
History:
This is an original World War II-era U.S. M1917 Browning Machine Gun Transportable Water Condenser Can, complete with its original canvas carry strap. Designed for use with the M1917A1 water-cooled heavy machine gun, this steel canister served as a critical component of the gun's cooling system in sustained fire scenarios.
The water can, also known as a condensing can, was used to collect steam and coolant overflow from the gun's water jacket. A flexible hose connected the gun to the can, allowing vaporized water to condense back into liquid form, minimizing water loss and enabling extended firing periods in combat. This was especially essential in static defense, vehicle-mounted, or tripod-deployed machine gun positions.
Constructed from durable steel and painted in standard wartime olive drab, the can features a screw cap and vent, as well as reinforced handles for portability. The attached canvas strap, made of heavy webbing, allowed soldiers to easily carry or secure the can during transport or deployment.
These condenser cans were standard issue with every M1917A1 machine gun setup and were widely used in the European and Pacific Theaters. Surviving original examples, especially with intact straps and fittings, are becoming increasingly scarce and are highly sought after by collectors of U.S. WW2 ordnance and field gear.
This artifact represents a vital support item for one of the U.S. military’s most reliable and iconic heavy machine guns of the Second World War.
