155MM Howitzer M114 – 39 EXP CAN

The M114/39 Howitzer is an upgraded experimental version of the M114. Canada evaluated two M114/39s, and they cancelled the project with none going into service. However, Canada used the technological innovations with the M114/39 to improve future guns.

To improve the M114, Canadian Engineer Gerald Bull introduced “reverse rifling” and “extended range, full bore” ammunition in the 1980s. With a 39-calibre barrel, the gun had an effective range of 25-32 kilometres.

By the 1980s, the M114 had become obsolete. The Artillery used a team of eleven Gunners to fire the M114/39 with its 98-pound shells. In 1989, Canada began assessing the gun, but an unknown assailant assassinated Gerald Bull. Canada discontinued the M114/39 project that year.

Weight of Projectile: 98 pounds (44.45 kilograms)

Range: 19.89 miles (32 kilometres)

Detachment: Gun, towing vehicles, 11 Gunners