Bizarre German Grenade-Throwing-Contraption, Somme

[helmet2id]

It looks as if both pictures were taken in the same location. I think it is the same machine as well! Jim G.

[Chopperman]

I think I remember where I have seen these types
of contraptions before----------

[James C]

fascinating contraption glenn would this of been a two man operation ,one turning one releasing

[Hoss]

Is it for throwing or is it possibly some sort of signal thingy?

Greg
Its a signal alright, a signal for comrades when spinning to dive into the nearest bunker lol! thanks for showing I've only seen pics of crossbows and catapults.

Eric

[Danmark]

Rather short lived endeavour if it failed to clear the top of the parapet though .........

[MAP]

Instructions:
1) Light fuses
2) Crank Handle
3) Pull Release
4) RUN!!!!

[lokvar]

Hi Everyone

Do you know that also the Italian in ww1 have an similar machine for handgranade launch.

Lanciabombe Minucciani

Lenticolare Minucciani

BW...Sašo

[Chopperman]

Thanks for posting that I find these kinds of
threads very interesting. This is part of why I
like ww1 history.

[Walkwolf]

Wow. Not something I'd volunteer to operate either
- or be anywhere near when armed.

If it were remotely activated it might be safe to use,
but there is too much room for error - especially
when each of those things attached to the ends
of the rods make a big 'boom'.........

[Hoss]

Hello Gents
The piece shown by Glenn how do you think it was used? It would appear to have been tensioned by the handle and gearing then locked, the bags filled then fired the explosives leaving behind the safety pins?
A chum sent me a pic last night showing another device, many thanks if its from a different forum or individual.

Eric