An Cosantóir

www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 17 distinguishing numbers or proof marks have been obliterated over the years by weathering. However, the range-plate of the sled mount has survived somewhat intact and bears markings that may in time provide an answer to its origin. The work completed in the Ordnance School was substantial and had to be carried out between courses. The first job was to strip as much of the old paint off the sled mount and the weapon as possible. In this task I was supported by Cpl Morgan James, Fran Dillon (civilian staff) and Dickie Carroll (civilian staff) from Ordnance Base Work- shops (OBW). With this done, base metal repairs could begin in earnest. Large holes in the water jacket were repaired; the top cover and hinge and sight bracket were fabricated and rivet fitted; an approximation of the muzzle flash hider was constructed from mild steel; and lock- ing plates for the top cover, water jacket inlet, and safety valve were fabricated from brass. On the sled mount the elevation mechanism was completely damaged due to cement corroding the lead screw, but most of the assembly was eventually released through a combination of highly concentrated heat application and the impact vectoring of tools (in other words heating it with an oxy-acetylene torch and hitting it with 7lb hammer!). A retaining bracket was fabricated with brass retain- ing screws so the weapon would sit as originally designed on the sled mount. Finally a colour scheme which would be appropriate to its his- tory as a weapon of war was applied. Again I was helped out here by OBW civilian staff, Damien Burke and charge-hand, Matt Cummins. The restored piece was presented to the governor and his staff by Lt Col Lane at a small ceremony in September. Although it was difficult to find the time that a task of this scope warranted, it was a very interesting and worthwhile project to have led. In the centenary anniversary of the start of the Great War, I feel the refurbishment was important. It was also very beneficial to prac- tice skills I learned over many years. I hope the weapon becomes a fitting centrepiece of the Mountjoy Prison museum long into the future. characteristics of the maschinengewehr 08 Calibre: 7.92mm Feed (cyclic): 400 rounds per minute Feed: 250-round cloth belt, fed from right side of weapon Water capacity (cooling): 4.5l Range (max): 3,660m Range (effective): 2,000m Crew: 3-6

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