World War II ammunition loading machine

A magnificent machine for loading ammunition belts for the ZB-37 machine gun. Czechoslovakia, World War II.

A machine for loading ammunition belts for the Czechoslovak ZB-37 machine gun, 8x57 caliber. It comes in a military-green metal case that conveniently stores the machine, the belt, and the ammunition, and features a side handle for easy transport. The top of the case is painted black with typical military lettering: Z-42, and the serial number-6185-is painted in white on one of the sides. Attached to the upper interior of the case is the device used to load the ammunition belts. Thanks to a spring-loaded clasp, the device can be mounted horizontally anywhere quickly and easily. Attached to the front is a crank handle used to feed the belt forward. Inside the machine, the serial number of the unit-6185-is displayed again in striking red, accompanied by "GURTFÜLLER 37." On one side are two small parallel containers that hold the cartridges until they are fed into the belt. Thanks to the movement of the crank, the cartridges are fed in an orderly fashion into the hinged metal belt. This type of belt consists of a series of folded metal plates, each holding a single cartridge. All the plates are joined together by a pin or a special fold, forming a hinge. Often, a larger, specially shaped metal strip is integrated at the beginning to facilitate insertion into the weapon, as can be clearly seen in the images.

It is in perfect working condition. It loads and unloads the machine gun's belt. Belt and deactivated ammunition included.

The ZB-37 machine gun was used by the Germans during World War II. When they invaded Czechoslovakia, the German army incorporated the distinctive Czechoslovak ZB-37 machine guns into their arsenal. The basic function of a machine of this type is to hold a certain number of cartridges together so that, as they are fed through the machine gun's mechanism, they provide correctly oriented ammunition for loading into the chamber.

A magnificent machine that will be a highlight of any military collection.

Dimensions: 33 x 69 cm.