This genuine military surplus wooden artillery crate was originally engineered to transport and protect two heavy 105mm High Explosive (HE) M1 cartridges across rugged field environments. Moving heavy ordnance requires a tactical container that will not fail under shifting loads, continuous transit vibrations, or high-impact handling. Built strictly to military transport standards, this crate handles extreme physical stress through a heavy-duty solid wood chassis, external structural batting, and integrated high-tensile side rope handles.
From a structural engineering standpoint, the solid wood lumber frame distributes heavy, compressive weight far better than thin metal or plastic alternatives, preventing the container from crushing or buckling when stacked deep. Reinforced exterior wood batting provides exceptional torsional rigidity, stopping the frame from twisting out of shape even when unevenly loaded with dense gear. Security is maintained by a rugged hardware system, featuring two steel back hinges and a centralized front-locking draw-latch that provides mechanical tension to keep the lid firmly locked down tight.
This time-tested piece of military logistics delivers a rugged storage solution perfect for stacking ammunition cans, organizing heavy tools, or serving as an authentic piece of military memorabilia decor. The exterior surfaces retain original field-issued markings, including genuine military stenciling, ordnance stamps, and production lot numbers. Please note that this traditional wooden lid configuration is engineered for physical impact resistance and high-load capacity rather than environmental sealing; it does not feature an O-ring gasket and is non-watertight.
Key Benefits
- Stable High-Density Stacking: Reinforced wood batting and high load capacity ensure secure, stable stacking without bending or losing structural integrity.
- Vibration-Resistant Closure: The heavy-duty steel draw-latch closure provides continuous mechanical tension, keeping the lid firmly shut through rough transit.
- Heavy-Duty Load Distribution: The solid-wood chassis evenly distributes heavy compressive weight, drastically reducing box deformation over years of repeated use.
- Authentic Heritage & Utility: Combines proven military engineering with a rugged, multi-purpose storage solution featuring original field stenciling and stamps.
Technical Specification
- Dimensions: 37 in L x 12 in W x 8 in H
- Material: Solid wood lumber (pine or equivalent) with exterior reinforcing batting
- Hardware: 2 rear steel hinges, 1 front steel draw-latch, dual side rope handles
- Original Use: Held two 105mm HE M1 artillery cartridges (Howitzer M2A1, M2A2, M103, M137)
- Markings: Original military stenciling, ordnance stamps, and production lot numbers
- Sealing: Non-watertight (no gasket system)
- Condition: Field-issued military surplus; features wood variation, scuffs, and hardware oxidation
Genuine Military Surplus Condition Notice
As an authentic, field-issued military surplus item, units exhibit unique character and unit-to-unit variation. Expect genuine weathering, cosmetic wood chips, paint scuffs, variations in stenciling clarity, and surface rust/oxidation on the steel hardware. Metal hardware may require manual break-in or lubrication due to long-term storage oxidation.
Secure an authentic piece of military logistics engineering with proven structural performance. SMKW sources genuine surplus with verifiable markings and functional integrity—equip your storage system or collection with equipment built to military transport standards.
