^Lot 1548 BRITISH WWII PIAT 83MM ANTI-TANK PROJECTOR WITH

INERT PROJECTILE. PIAT (Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank) anti-tank projector mfg. in Britain during WWII. Based off of the spigot mortar system, the PIAT was designed in 1942, entered service in early 1943, and saw use into the early 1950s, with a number of PIATs also being utilized by the Soviet Union (under the Lend-Lease program) as well as resistance groups throughout the remainder of the war. While the PIAT system had some advantages over contemporary anti-tank weaponry of the time, including its simple mfg., the lack of a back blast when firing, multi-role capability as a direct and indirect fire projector, and usage of HEAT (High Explosive Anti-Tank) munitions, its weight, strong recoil, and cumbersome method of cocking, ultimately led to further developments in infantry AT weaponry and its relatively limited use outside of WWII. This example is marked "IC / B28062" followed by a British proof on the top of the projectile support assembly. Metal components exhibit a green painted finish, with a single white painted line present across the top of the receiver tube. Plain rnd. brown synthetic grip. Flip-up post front sight and flip-up brass rear sight, with 3 apertures graduated at "50", "80", and "110". This example is complete with its cork guide tube stopper (on steel chain), monopod, "M.E. Co." marked khaki canvas web sling, as well as a leather laced khaki canvas shoulder pad cover. UNATTACHED ACCESSORIES: x1 83mm 1944 dated inert projectile. Projectile exhibits a green painted exterior and is marked "3/44" above "LOT/ 573" on the side of the body, with "MK III" on the tail tube. Projectile head is painted with a red band along the cone, with an apparent white or light brown band painted around the body. CONDITION: metal components retain large amounts of their green painted exterior, exhibiting superficial scratches and handling marks, as well as scattered spots and areas of flaking showing through to silvering and some spots of oxidation. Brass rear sight exhibits areas of flaking to its black enamel type finish. Trigger and safety lever actuate properly. Sling is very good to excellent overall. Shoulder pad shows general overall wear, with scattered spots of discoloration. Projectile retains the majority of its green painted finish, showing some light handling marks, with scattered spots and patches of flaking. The PIAT is not subject to the provisions of National Firearms Act, and is listed under section III of the BATFE's Curio & Relics list (2025 edition, page 22) as being removed from the provisions of the NFA. This is an excellent and desirable example of a British WWII PIAT projector that would make for a fantastic display piece. (25-5296/MLW). CURIO. $1,500-2,250.