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[Gunner]

Hi All:

I thought I'd weigh in here as I'm a bit confused by some of the posts.

If I understand correctly, some 15 CWT were fitted as 17 Pounder tractors?

I question this based on 31 years practical experience in the artillery... the 15 CWT would make a poor tractor for the 17 pounder as you would end up with a combination where the gun almost outweighs the tractor, the brakes on the 15 CWT would be taxed with stopping the load, there would be little room for a full detachment and all the stores and ammunition.

Stranger things have happened but I suspect that a poor 15 CWT would near collapse from the load it would be asked to handle.

Six or seven strapping big Gunners @ 300 lbs apiece (soldier and kit) = 2100 lbs.

Gun Stores = 1000 lbs (tools, parts, cam nets, etc)

Ammunition (basic load of 50 rds mixed) = 2500 lbs

Tongue weight of 17 Pounder = 100 lbs

Vehicles stores = 300 lbs

So far, just rough order calculations mean we are asking the 15 CWT to haul just over 6000 lbs or damn near 60 CWT!

I haven't thought through the added complication of adding in the Trailer No. 27 (Limber) to this equation.

I certainly wouldn't want to ride in it (if I could find room!)

Cheers! Mike