Item Description
Original Items: Only one set available. William Schermuly 1857-1929 was one of the fathers of modern rocketry. He had served aboard vessels at sea and knew of how many lives were lost each year due to shipwrecks. He invented several different line throwing devices, some of which were used in WWI for such things as throwing telephone lines from trench to trench while under fire. But, the British Admiralty still didn’t see a need for his line throwers. Finally, he came up with a design that was small, easily aimed and fired, accurate and simple to use – the Schermuly Rocket Pistol Apparatus. In 1929, just 19 days before he died, the Admiralty made it compulsory for all vessels over 500 tons to carry line throwers. It was so successful that in 1938, a new act made it a requirement for all ships over 80 tons or 50 feet in length.
This is a Post-WWII variation of the Schermuly Pistol Rocket which was marketed as the Rocket Apparatus Yacht Rescue Set, in a smaller caliber than the WWII variation. This example is missing most of the grip handle, but retains the logo on top of the barrel. It breaks open and closes without issue, and dry fires well.
The pistol is based on the Webley & Scott brass flare pistol, with a steel barrel extension to take a rocket that would propel a wire over distance. The wire could be attached to a cable to help transfer people from ship to ship or shore to ship.
The serial number 2431 is visible on the side of the barrel. The finish of the barrel is rather worn, but the grips are in good shape. The retractable lanyard ring is also intact.
A good example, ready for further research and display.
- This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey
This product is not available for international shipping.
No sales in NJ.
This item is completely legal within the USA. International Military Antiques, Inc observes all Federal, State and Local laws. Everything for sale on ima-usa.com is completely legal to own, trade, transport and sell within the United States of America.
Not Available for Export.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
