Artillery Proof firing from AWM

[Mike Cecil]

I agree with Dave ... the AWM title about proofing is clearly misleading. Real proof tests using proof ammunition are conducted with a long firing rope and all crew behind barriers. This is clearly a senior officers demo of new and experimental equipment - some of what is seen there never progressed beyond the stage seen in the film.

It is the range at Williamstown, and what a blustery day it seems to be, too, judging by the white caps on the Bay.

Some interesting kit being demonstrated either static or fired, though. Austen SMG, AC1 'E' series test-bed with 17pdr, 6 and 17pdr AT, SP 40mm LAA (which fires only one shot in the film ... maybe still having stability problems in auto!), and the 20mm AA mobile mount. The early 25-pdr Short is especially interesting. Bob Mc might be willing to give us his thoughts on that. Wonder what the rocket(s) were?

Mike