One thing I’ve noticed with model kits as well as with a number of built models is that it is quite apparent that many manufacturers and modellers alike aren’t aware of the difference between World War Two era and modern era .50 calibre and .30 calibre ammo tins ( ammo cans, ammo boxes, call them what you will ). While a WWII era ammo tin can be explained in a modern setting it’s a little harder to explain the presence of a modern ammo tin in a World War Two setting. So here is a very brief, simple guide to help to identify which are the right ones for your WWII era model.
The .50 Calibre Tins : The World War Two era M2 is distinguishable by the side opening hinge as opposed to the modern M2A1 with the hinge on the end and the latch on the other. The M2 has a hasp and staple type closure with a retaining pin, the M2A1 uses the latch which hooks under a lip and then is pushed down till it clips into place. The M2 also has strengthening ribs pressed into the sides where-as the M2A1 does not.
M2 .50 Calibre Ammo Tin M2A1 .50 Calibre Ammo Tin
The .30 Calibre Tins : The main differences are that the older World War Two era M1 and M1A1 tins have the strengthening ribs pressed into the sides as well as a flat lid. The later M19 and M19A1 have the tapered lid and no side ribbing. All of them have the hinge on one end with the push down latch on the other though the M1 latch is narrower. The M1 and M1A1 also have a toe at the base on the hinge end which is used to lock it into place on mount frames.
M1 .30 Calibre Ammo Tin M1A1 .30 Calibre Ammo Tin
M19A1 .30 Calibre Ammo Tin
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