Vickers, 303 Machine Gun. Glosters Museum)

Vickers, 303 Machine Gun.
The Vickers 303 (7.7mm) machine gun was in service from before the First World War until the 1960s Its normal rate of fire was one belt 250 rounds in two minutes. To prevent it overheating the barrel was encased in a water jacket with a capacity of 3.3 litres. As the gun became hot the water turned into steam which was collected in a condenser can through a tube. After cooling the water could be used again. On display at the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum. Commercial Rd, Gloucester GL1 2HE