*British, 1979, 76mm ARMDC L23A1 HESH Cartridge Case, FV101 Scorpion CVR(T), RLB Birtley*
An original British 76mm HESH cartridge case for the L23A1 low-velocity gun, as fitted to the FV101 Scorpion light tank, offered here as a completely inert, empty brass display piece. A very attractive and well-marked Cold War example, retaining clear factory and service markings, and highly suitable for armoured vehicle or British ordnance collections.
The case is correctly headstamped, including:
“76mm ARMDC” – Armoured Fighting Vehicle cartridge case designation
“RLB” – Royal Ordnance Factory / Royal Laboratory Birtley
“1979” – manufacture date
British Broad Arrow – government ownership mark
“LOT 29” – production batch
The body retains additional black stencil markings, clearly reading “N° / MO7” over “557B CY-4-81”, indicating a Mod 7 configuration with processing or inspection carried out in April 1981, consistent with British ordnance service-life handling. The base retains black stencilling including “HESH” and a designation appearing to read “L29A5”, consistent with British L-series ammunition nomenclature, though the first character is worn.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 23.2 cm. Base diameter: 9.5 cm.
History Note:
The 76mm L23A1 gun was the standard armament of the FV101 Scorpion, part of the CVR(T) (Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance – Tracked) family introduced in the late 1960s. Designed as a lightweight, air-portable reconnaissance vehicle, the Scorpion combined mobility with a capable low-velocity gun firing HESH ammunition, highly effective against light armour and fortifications. Ammunition of this type represents the British Army’s Cold War doctrine of mobile, hard-hitting reconnaissance forces, and was widely used through the 1970s–1990s.
*Condition*
Good original condition with honest service wear. The brass shows age-related patina, surface marks, and areas of staining, with darkening around the neck consistent with firing. Minor dents and handling marks are present, including slight edge irregularity to the mouth. Stencilling remains partially visible, and all key stamped markings are legible. Primer intact. A solid and displayable example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ
