*U.S., Dated 1998, 30×173mm Dummy - Drill Round, GAU-8 Avenger (A-10 “Warthog”) Type, Aluminium Case, USE Contractor Marked, Inert*
An excellent and highly displayable original U.S. 30×173mm dummy/drill round, a genuine military training item directly associated with the iconic GAU-8 Avenger of the A-10 “Warthog,” offered as a completely inert display piece, free from all explosive or energetic components and ideal for collectors of modern military ordnance.
This is a full-size inert handling/training round of the standard 3`0×173mm NATO cartridge, used extensively across U.S. and NATO autocannon systems including the GAU-8 Avenger and the Mk44 Bushmaster II. The round features a solid machined projectile in natural metal finish, clearly identifying it as a non-ballistic drill or instructional type rather than a live or target practice loading.
The base retains original white stencil markings:
“28107310-Y”
“USE98L017-314”
These comprise a U.S. ordnance drawing/part number and a continuous contractor lot code, with “USE” attributed to United States Engineering Company, “98” confirming production in 1998, and the remaining sequence denoting lot and batch tracking. The format is consistent with late Cold War and post-Cold War U.S. 30mm inert/training assemblies.
The cartridge case is of lightweight aluminium alloy construction (non-magnetic), finished in a matte grey/olive drab protective coating typical of GAU-8 family ammunition designed to reduce overall system weight. The projectile is correctly profiled and inert, and the base retains its original inert primer insert, showing a shallow, symmetrical central indentation consistent with factory dummy/drill configuration and not a fired case.
Approx. Measurements – Height: 28 cm. Base diameter: 4.5 cm.
History Note:
The 30×173mm cartridge was developed to deliver high-velocity firepower for modern autocannon systems and became synonymous with the A-10 Thunderbolt II, whose GAU-8 Avenger cannon was engineered around this calibre. Entering service during the Cold War, the system remained in widespread use through the 1990s and into modern conflicts. Dummy and drill rounds such as this example were essential for safe crew training, allowing loading, handling, and familiarisation without the risks associated with live ammunition, and were produced under U.S. defence contracts such as this 1998 example.
*Condition*
Very good overall condition. The projectile remains clean with light handling marks. The aluminium case retains its original matte coating with expected wear, scuffs, and minor abrasions from service use. Stencilled markings remain clear and legible. Inert primer present and intact. A strong and authentic display example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3212BE_2286239622
