Leather Madsen Gun Barrel Case

A leather hide case for a Madsen Light Machine Gun.

The case is well made from thick, rigid leather. The top has a leather hinge and belt strap with buckle to secure it. There is a shoulder strap fitted on brass D rings that is adjustable to two lengths and a triangular ring to the back with a D ring to the side likely for fixing it to a saddle. The case was made for strength and has remained in good condition.

For modern use, it would work well for taking rolled up designs or maps etc. Early 20th Century.

The Madsen Light Machine gun was developed in Denmark at the end of the 19th century and patented in 1901. It was named after the Danish artillery officer Captain Vilhelm Herman Oluf Madsen who one one of the designers. It is considered the first light machine gun. It was produced in 12 different calibres, was exported to 34 countries before WW1 and was in use for over 100 years. The barrels became hot during use and so, in order to ensure continued firing, spare barrels were needed and kept is cases such as these. The case size naturally varied dependent on the model and calibre.

We also have a second case that is longer in length and is sold separately.