3" 50 Cal. Anti-Aircraft Gun, US, MK 20
Title: Model, Gun Mount, 3-Inch 50 Caliber Anti-Aircraft, Mark 20
Accession #: NHHC 1965-350-CL
Circa: Early 20th century
Size: 7 x 18
Medium: Wood, Brass
Location: Headquarters Artifact Collection, Naval History and Heritage Command
One wood and brass model of a 3-inch, 50 caliber anti-aircraft gun mount. Single-gun with a pedestal-type mount, the body is comprised of carved wood with a smooth finish and brass-colored metal accents. The barrel can be elevated by the elevating hand wheel.
Though the first variants of the 3-inch, 50 caliber guns began production in 1900, the first dual-purpose guns were not called into service until 1915. Dual-purpose guns were designed as anti-aircraft guns while still maintaining their ability to target naval vessels. They formed the primary armaments of smaller ships such as destroyer escorts, minesweepers, submarines, auxiliary vessels and merchant ships. They were also used as the secondary batteries for larger ships, such as the WWI-era cruisers, destroyers, and battleships.
