20mm shell restoration and small collection

[Vegard T]

Here we have my 20mm shells found at a FW-190 A-3 crash site(Shot down 1 February 1943 by friendly fire, pilot survived).

Most of these were recovered from the crash site, but 1-2 were found where some parts were dumped after the war(about 80 meters away).

When the plane crashed into the field, there was a big explosion, and the ammunition and gunpowder burnt for nearly a day.

There was still some gunpowder inside, so to make sure everything was safe, they were soaked with water to make sure it would not do damage and then taken out of the shells and disposed of.

Firstly I would like to show you how the shells are restored.
Tools used:
Screwdriver
Wire brush
Steel wool

Here we can see what the wet earth has done to the shell, it has a layer of rust which is about 5 millimeters thick:




The screwdriver was the most important tool, it was used to flip bits of the rust off the shell, with full concentration and a good technique, this can be done without hurting the shell more than needed.

Once that was done you go over the shell with a small wire brush to make sure you get all the biggest parts of rust dealt with.

Then finish off with the steel wool.

The result:






And then the collection:
Top, from left to right: Ammo-links, shells with Ammo-links, exploded shells
Bottom, from left to right: Unrestored shell, restored(The one shown before is to the far right.

[talltom]

very cool its brilliant to know the history thanks for sharing

[Martin Bull]

Nice work, vegar ! Those shells look to be corroded almost beyond hope of restoration.....

[Frundsberg]

Better try oxalic accid or electrolysis.