Extra credit question: Anyone know the main tactical benefit of the muzzle brakes on WWII era tanks?
Frankenmauser,
#1) yes
#2) yes
#3) ahh, I guess, if you can get the cat to stay there...
#4) Noo! Never! Always use one of the shackles on the hull for attachment points. Using the gun puts too much strain on the gun mount.
#5) ? I have no idea!
The main tactical benefit to the muzzle brake seen on WWII era (and some later) tanks is the benefit it gives for a faster follow up shot.
And it has nothing to do with the recoil reduction. It has to do with the gunner's ability to see.
Look at the tanks which have the brakes. The gun barrels extend well past the front of the hull. Muzzle blast kicks up a lot of dust, which generally obscures the gunner's sight until it settles. The muzzle brake, with a solid bottom, directing a good portion of the blast to the sides, kicked up a LOT less dust right in front of the tank, allowing the gunner to see his target again, sooner, and deliver a faster follow up shot, if needed.
That same effect that makes it so painful to be on a bench on the next lane when a braked rifle is fired, was a combat advantage at one time.
Today, our tank sights can see through dust, smoke rain, sleet, hail, snow, and dark of night to deliver the mail. So the beneficial effect of a brake kicking up less dust and debris isn't needed anymore.
That's an interesting set up below the 45-70
The scoped barrel is .22 Hornet.
The short barrel is 9mm Luger. And it only looks short, in comparison, it's a 6" barrel.