U.S. WWI-Era Inert 37mm M5 Drill Cartridge for 37mm M1916 Gun

Add a piece of military history to your collection with this original, inert 37mm M5 drill cartridge, designed for training with the 37mm M1916 gun, a light artillery piece used by U.S. and Allied forces during World War I. This rare training round, marked “37 MM M5 DRILL CTG,” was used to teach artillery crews the proper handling, loading, and unloading procedures for the 37mm M1916, ensuring they were prepared for combat without the risks of live ammunition.

Details:

• Caliber: 37mm
• Markings: Clearly stamped with “37 MM M5 DRILL CTG” and “87 G M 3 &” on the side, along with “37 MM” on the base. The “87 G M 3 &” likely indicates a lot number or manufacturer designation, though its exact meaning remains a point of historical intrigue.
• Construction: Brass casing with copper driving bands and a steel projectile tip, painted black to indicate its inert status (a common practice for drill rounds). The round shows no signs of live components, with a dummy fuze in place.
• Condition: This piece shows authentic wear from its age, including minor corrosion and discoloration, which adds to its historical character. The markings remain fully legible, making it a great display piece.
• Dimensions: Approximately 14.5 inches tall (standard for 37mm rounds of this type).
• Historical Context: The 37mm M1916 was a key infantry support weapon during WWI, used for direct fire against enemy positions. Drill cartridges like this one were essential for training new crews, especially as the U.S. rapidly expanded its military forces during the war. The “M5” designation indicates a specific model of drill round, likely produced in the early 20th century.

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