*British, WW1, Stokes 3-Inch Mortar Bomb, With Original No.146 “All-Ways” Fuze, Inert*
Original First World War British Stokes 3-inch mortar bomb, retaining its original steel body with surviving traces of period service paint. The bomb is fitted with its correct No.146 percussion (“All-Ways”) fuze, identifiable by its distinctive form and marked with two British Broad Arrows, indicating government acceptance.
The bomb measures approximately 43.5 cm in overall length with a body diameter of c.7.5 cm, consistent with standard WW1 Stokes mortar ammunition. The tail unit displays the correct perforated design for gas escape and stabilisation, and the base plug and threaded body remain intact. The interior shows threaded construction, confirming correct manufacture rather than a later replica or display casting.
This example is offered fully inert, with no explosive content.
Historical Note:
The Stokes mortar, introduced in 1915 by Sir Wilfred Stokes, revolutionised trench warfare by providing infantry with a lightweight, rapid-fire indirect weapon capable of delivering high-explosive rounds into enemy positions. The 3-inch Stokes mortar became the standard British pattern and saw extensive service on the Western Front from 1916 onwards.
The No.146 fuze, often referred to as an “All-Ways” fuze, was developed to ensure detonation regardless of the angle of impact — a critical requirement given the tumbling flight characteristics of early mortar bombs. Its reliability made it one of the most important British fuze designs of the war and it remained influential in later ordnance development.
Original examples retaining both fuze and period paint are increasingly scarce, particularly in untouched condition.
*Condition*
In good, honest service condition, showing heavy oxidation, surface pitting, and wear consistent with age and battlefield use. Original paint remnants remain visible. The fuze shows clear Broad Arrow markings. No cracks or structural breaks noted. Inert and safe for display. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
