The Fort Harrison Military Museum had the right idea however, and the right environment to display them.
The first known of these 2X training aids was theBAR Double Size unit 3-F-3.
The visible operational features in the sectional training aid were color-treated to look like the real thing.
The gadget is hollow and constructed of a light aluminum, so although massive, it is not heavy.
Simulated ammunition, made of plastic, was used to demonstrate how the magazine was loaded.
The manufacturer was J.H.
Keeney & Company of Chicago, Illinois.
A Massive M1?
The M24 training aid is an oversized M1 Garand rifle.
It is 86 long, 1934 high and 17 wide.
A group of 2X plastic cartridges and an en-bloc clip were provided to demonstrate loading of the rifle.
Soon after, the remaining 2X M-series training aids were made surplus.
Where Are They Now?
The big training aids came and went rather quickly.
Most of the examples found today are incomplete, or, at best, refurbished.
The forts museum contains many rare artifacts and is the ultimate destination for those interested in the U.S./Canadian 1SSF.
We appreciate their contributions to this article, and to helping to preserve our military history.
Visit the Montana Military Museum website.
