British, 1953, 40mm Bofors L/70 Mk I Brass Cartridge Case, Royal Laboratory RL

*British, 1953, 40mm Bofors L/70 Mk I Brass Cartridge Case, Royal Laboratory RL*

A good original British 40mm Bofors L/70 Mk I brass cartridge case, dated 1953 and manufactured by RL – Royal Laboratory / Royal Ordnance Woolwich. This is the longer post-war 40mm Bofors L/70 case, introduced for the higher-velocity L/70 automatic anti-aircraft gun, and should not be confused with the earlier and shorter wartime 40mm L/60 Bofors case.

The base is clearly marked 40/70 MK I, LOT 100, RL, 1953, with British Broad Arrow acceptance mark and additional inspection/control stamps including D4, B4 and F. The primer has been removed, leaving the central primer aperture open, and the case is empty and inert.

Approx. Measurements – Height: 36.4cm. Base diameter: 6.4cm.

History Note:
The 40mm Bofors L/70 was a major Cold War development of the famous wartime Bofors gun, offering a longer cartridge case and greater performance for modern anti-aircraft use. British-marked early 1950s examples are attractive collector pieces, especially when retaining clear base markings.

*Condition*
Condition is good overall for age, with surface patina, handling wear, verdigris around the base and interior, scratches, marks and light knocks from service/storage. The mouth shows some edge distortion and minor dents. Empty inert display case only. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.