British Army, Cold War 1958–1981, 120mm WOMBAT BAT MOBAT HESH L19A3 Inert Shell & Brass Case

Designed for use with the L2 BAT, MOBAT and WOMBAT recoilless rifles, this is a classic Cold War British anti-tank round and an increasingly sought-after large-calibre display item.

The projectile retains its correct black service finish with bright yellow stencilling, reading:
“120 MM BAT / HESH L19A3 / RDX/WX/1 / 21 / 9 / 61”

This is particularly desirable, as live-service HESH rounds (black with yellow stencilling) are far more sought after than the more commonly encountered blue-painted practice rounds, offering much stronger visual and collector appeal.

The stencilling remains unusually crisp and legible, making this a very “busy” and attractive display example. Additional impressed markings include:
“DT / P / 120 MM BAT / SX 18 GE / LOT 467 RLB / 6/81 / 226B”

The “6/81” marking indicates a late-service inspection or refurbishment, showing continued use into the final years of WOMBAT service—an excellent and relatively uncommon feature that adds depth and interest to the piece.

The brass cartridge case is stencilled:
“120MM L2 BAT HESH L19A3 / CY 2/60 / B42C / NQ/S 105-035”

Further base and body markings include:
“RW224 RLB LOT 16 1959” with Broad Arrow
“ECC 1958 QX 1235”
Brown base: “IGN L1A5 LOT 15 BY 12/59”

Importantly, this example retains its original full brass cartridge case—rather than a later steel or drill/training substitute—which significantly enhances authenticity and collector value, even allowing for the typical age-related cracking present to the neck.

Approx. Measurements – Overall height: 115 cm. Brass case height: 79 cm. Base diameter: 15 cm.

History Note:
The L2 BAT and its successors, the MOBAT and WOMBAT, were the British Army’s principal infantry anti-tank weapons from the 1950s until the early 1980s. These powerful recoilless rifles fired 120mm ammunition capable of defeating contemporary armoured vehicles.

The L19A3 HESH (High Explosive Squash Head) round functioned by spreading explosive across the target surface before detonation, producing internal spalling rather than penetrating directly. The range of dates on this example reflects the long service life of such munitions, often manufactured, filled and later refurbished over decades.

*Condition*
Inert display item only. Projectile in very good display condition with strong original finish and exceptionally clear, bold stencilling. Brass case shows expected age-related wear including tarnishing, scratches and handling marks. There is visible cracking to the neck of the brass case, a known and typical issue with aged large-calibre brass of this period due to metal fatigue. Despite this, the round remains solid and highly presentable for display. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

Please contact the shop prior to purchase if you'd like to arrange collection.

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