Brixia Model 35

The Brixia Model 35 was an Italian small-sized, rapid firing light mortar of World War II.

Description

The Brixia light mortar is a 45 mm calibre light mortar mounted on a legged base and designed for operation by two crew. The rear legs are fitted with a pad for the gunner to lay forward on behind the mortar, or sit upon when the situation allowed. A lever allowed for operating the breech and firing the weapon, while ammunition was fed in by the loader. Well trained teams could reach up to 18 rounds per minute, although operational rate of fire was less.

The Brixia was a complicated weapon, but was the service light mortar of the Italian military throughout World War II.

Specifications

* Calibre: 45 mm (1.75 in)
* Barrel length: 260 mm (10.25 in)
* Action weight: 15.5 kg (34.2 lb)
* Shell weight: 456 g (16.1 oz)
* Elevation: +10° to +90°
* Traverse: 20°
* Muzzle velocity: 83 m/s (270 ft/s)
* Maximum range: 530 m (580 yd)
* Rate of fire: 8 to 15 rounds per minute

External links

* [http://www.lonesentry.com/articles/ttt07/italian-45mm-mortar.html U.S. Intelligence Report on Italian 45 mm Mortar]

See also

* List of artillery