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I am attempting to find the "T" series SNL which delt with ammo packaging.
It appears that while the standard WWII infantry machine guns packaging was 250 round belts loaded 4X1, that is 4 Ball 1 tracer in a M1 Ammunition box 4 boxes to a crate. My wifes Uncle (deceased) was a member of the 69th Armored Field Art. Bn. (Sicily, Anzio, Southern France invasions) they operated 105mm self propelled mounted on M3 tank chassis he stated that their packaging included AP/API/APIT belts and that the Infantry guys were always trying to steal the ammo because they thought it was more effective (it was).
The "T" series SNL (Standard Nomenclature List) contains AIC (Ammunition Identification Codes) consisting of 5 characters which identified the caliber, type, grade, and packaging. Sometimes the Cal.30 ammo was in pasteboard cartons of 20, 5 round stripper clips in bandoleers and of course 8 round Garand clips in bandoleers. These codes were printed on the cartons or packing card along with the lot numbers in M1 Ammo boxes. Later post WWII/Korea when the design of the ammo box changed, the code and lot were stenciled on the box. Sometimes the Lot and AIC was stenciled on the bandoleers themselves, but this practice was post WWII. Small arms ammo was graded, that is some of the production that didn't meet strict Ordnance parameters was classified for training use only.
Belt filling machines/linkers were included in the TO&E (Table of Originazition and Equipment) for each unit in case ready to use belted (or linked) ammo was not available. ORD 7 and ORD 8 publications even specified spare parts allowances for the belt filling machines.
My understanding is that belts were considered expendable in combat situations, but were recovered and reused in training situations. Linked ammunition was available at least as early as 1940 because it is mentioned in the 1919 FM dated 1940 for aircraft use only. Since the links are steel, and steel was in short supply, cloth belts were used until very late in the war.
I store my ammo belted, one caution, if you reload, make sure ALL of the lubricant is removed from the cases before belting, I got sloppy and had a few problems with the cases sticking to the belts and the extractor failing to remove and load the round. Cartridges MUST be free of lubricant to properly grip the chamber walls on firing.
I need your thoughts on ammo belts. In the days of WW11 did the ammo come already belted from the mfg ? or did they load belts as were needed or presumed would be needed. The whole reason I ask is should I store my belts already loaded or would it be better for the belts if they're empty until needed ? Thanks
Gordy
