Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a totally inert/deactivated example of the 81mm M853A1 Illumination Mortar Round. The device has no explosive filling or charges and cannot be converted to be an explosive device. This is completely inert and in compliance with BATF guidelines on inert ordnance.
Not Available For Export.
The M853A1 & M816 Cartridges are designed for use with the M252 81mm Mortar System for illuminating target areas to facilitate adjustment of fire. The projectile is loaded with an illuminant candle assembly and parachute assembly. The M853A1 and M816 are identical with the exception of the illuminant candle composition. The M853A1 contains a standard illuminant mix which provides approximately 525,000 candlepower of light whereas the M816 contains an infrared illuminant mix for use with standard night vision devices. It is designed to provide infrared illumination which can not be detected by the human eye in the target area. The M853A1/816 is equipped with the M772 Mechanical Time Fuze which functions at a user-specified time after launch. When the fuze functions it initiates the candle assembly and separates the front and rear projectile segments. As the parachute deploys, the candle burns for 50-60 seconds, providing the required illumination over the target area.
The M853A1/816 consists of the following major components:
- Projectile Body Assembly
- M219 Propelling Charge
- M752A1 Ignition Cartridge
- M29 Fin Assembly
- M772 Mechanical Time Super Quick Fuze
- Illuminant Candle Assembly
- Parachute Assembly
This example features the “Fuze, Mechanical Time Super Quick (MTSQ), M772 Loading, Assembling and Packing”. The M772 MTSQ Fuze is used in production of the 81mm M819 Red Phosphorus Smoke Mortar Cartridge and 81mm M816/M853A1 Illuminating Mortar Cartridges.
All arsenal markings and stampings are still present on all 3 components of the round, properly identifying it as an 81mm M853A1 Illumination round. The year this round was manufactured was 1992 and the 92 can be found in the lot number LOW92F001S032.
The round measures 26” in length and the canister is 27” in length.
This is a fantastic example of a rather rare illumination round and comes more than ready for display!
- This product is not available for international shipping.
- Totally inert, cannot be converted to an explosive devise, not available for export.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon