Patented by William Mills and known as 'Mills Bombs', these were first used in WW1 and were used by the British Army until 1972. Three models were made - No. 5, No. 23 and No. 36. The latter two could be fired from a rifle (with suitable attachments). Note that the casing is grooved to assist fragmentation. These grenades had a time delay fuse of 7 seconds initially but later a 4 second fuse was introduced. Upon explosion, its lethal range was approx. 90m but on hard ground it could be double that. Over 75 million were produced.Cast-iron 'pineapple' shaped anti-personnel grenade.

Oval, black, metal, heavy, Red ring pullNo 36 M MK1 R.B.O 8-41 F.L.Hmills bomb, bomb, grenade, hand grenade, world war two, second world war, ww2

WW2 Mills Bomb (Hand Grenade M36.WW2 Hand Grenade used by Australia and Commonwealth Countries.Segmented Cast Iron body with lever (now softened) and with Safety Pin and Ring. Firing Pin in position with heat softened firing pin spring. Non regulation filler screw fitted. The Grenade has been totally burnt out, there is no Base Plug and no Firing Pin/Fuse Holder assembly.The body is marked R B D which stands for R.B.Davies the lever is marked the same.

Item relates to James Worland MILLS No 3441, 59th Battalion. James on on the first table left sitting at RHS of table on the left of 2 other men. Refer Cat No 169P for his service details..1) & .2) Post card photos, sepia, showing soldiers eating at 2 tables with tents in the background..1) On rear in pencil: “The Hungry 59th Battalion at mess after a hard days work Hurdcott England 7.10.17” .2) On rear in pencil: “Hurdcott England Oct 7 1917 Taken about a week ago. Boys from the 59th Battalion messing one evening after doing a good days work at ____ ____ bayonet fighting, bombing and other modes of modern warfare. Jimmy”postcards, 59th