*British, Late 20th Century, 30mm RARDEN AP-Profile Inert Drill Rounds (x5), Clipped Autocannon Training Set, Warrior / Scimitar*
A highly displayable set of five original British 30mm RARDEN inert drill rounds, offered in clipped configuration and rarely encountered in such an attractive grouped format. A scarce and visually striking display set, particularly desirable with original factory paint and clear ordnance markings.
These are inert, non-functional training rounds, manufactured for loading and handling instruction, and are completely free from any explosive or energetic components.
Each round retains its original factory finish, with deep bronze green painted steel cases and black projectiles, consistent with British ordnance colour conventions. The black-tipped projectile represents an armour-piercing (AP) profile, used here in drill form to accurately replicate the weight and shape of live service ammunition.
The rounds are held together in their steel connectors, reflecting the clipped feed system associated with the 30mm RARDEN cannon. The bases are of standard drill construction with central hex fittings, confirming their purpose as reusable instructional rounds rather than fired cases. One of the projectiles is stamped “45 180 200,” with the “200” marking consistent with British production codes, often associated with Royal Ordnance manufacture such as Radway Green.
Based on size, proportions, and construction, these are most consistent with 30×170mm RARDEN drill rounds for the L21A1 cannon, as fitted to British Army vehicles including the FV107 Scimitar and FV510 Warrior.
Approx. Measurements – Each round: Height: 28.6 cm. Base diameter: 4 cm.
History Note:
The 30mm RARDEN (Royal Armament Research and Development Establishment) cannon was introduced in the 1970s and became the standard armament of British reconnaissance and infantry fighting vehicles throughout the Cold War and into the modern era. Unlike most autocannon, RARDEN utilised a distinctive 3-round clip-fed system rather than continuous belt feed, a feature that set it apart from contemporary designs.
Drill rounds such as these were produced to allow safe and repeated training in loading and handling procedures, accurately simulating the weight, balance, and profile of live armour-piercing ammunition without the presence of propellant or explosive components.
*Condition*
Good overall condition for display, retaining original factory paint. Some surface wear, scuffs, and minor paint loss to the projectile tips and bodies. Light oxidation to the steel clips/connectors. All rounds remain securely held together. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
