Pre/Early WW2 GI Ammunition Chest, M3 for .50 Cal. Ammo--Aluminum NICE

Description

Ammunition Chest, M3
Original immediate pre/early WW2 GI Ammunition Chest, M3 for use with .50 caliber BMG ammo, riveted aluminum construction featuring lid with brass piano-type hinge, single steel latch in front, and brown leather handle. Inside of lid and three sides of box are lined with reddish-brown fiber board type material [front is not lined, box was made this way]. Two aluminum spacer/hanger brackets spot welded on back. Well marked with black painted nomenclature on front. Box still retains approx. 70% original OD green paint with no dents, cracks, oxidation or other damage. Has old surplus store price written on left side [see photos]. Leather handle is broken in center and oil soaked from years of use, but both pieces are still present.
The M3 Chest was adopted for use with the M2 .50 BMG in June 1934 and was intended for Cavalry use, to be transported on the Phillips Pack Saddle [hence the aluminum construction, which would make the box at least a little lighter on the poor pack mule]. Production ended after the US entered the war, mainly due to the introduction of a steel version of this chest [in order to conserve aluminum for more critical wartime uses, such as aircraft]--both types would be replaced by the stamped steel M2 ammo box introduced in September 1942. Hard to find in this condition, as most civilian users removed the inner lining and the brackets. Nice piece for any GI ammo box or M2 .50 BMG accessories display/collection and is in fine condition. Any questions please feel free to ask.