Sherman .50 cal link (and brass) catcher bag?

[Big D]

Hi all,

I'm trying to identify the bag in the pictures. I was under the impression that it was a shell catcher bag for the .50 cal as used in an M20 or M8 armoured car.

However, I now understand this is a .50 cal link (and brass?) catcher bag for the Sherman. I understand the part number is G104-W108-1G1.

Perhaps one of the Sherman gurus could confirm please?

As you can see, the moths have got to this one but it is repairable.

[tankbarrell]

Sherman only had a .50 as an external weapon and case and link catchers were normally only needed on the internal guns. That number does not follow the normal Ordnance stock number pattern either.

[Big D]

Hi Adrian

Thanks for the reply. Here is another one with that part number on the tag.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/311204722255...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Does that help?

[tankbarrell]

Ok, that indicates it is a part used in a Modification Work Order, in other words a change or addition under G104. I suspect it was developed to collect brass and links for the external .50 to avoid them spilling on and in the tank, jamming things up.

[Big D]

Hi Adrian

Thanks for that. I figured you would have the answer!