What is it, machinist puzzle?

[zkling]

These were at the bottom of a box of misc machinist and cutting tools I picked up a while ago. I've been scratching my head but not many plausible ideas. The only idea I keep coming back too is just too far fetched (I think) to be possible. It is pretty interesting nonetheless, just would like to know what it really was designed for.

Thanks in advance.

 

[drivesitfar]

ZK: maybe it's a project a machinist has to make to pass the school's class? i have a boatload of those types of things i've been collecting this past year that have been hidden in my toolboxes.

it is cool and wondering if it has a function.

 

[sasquatch12]

looks to me like a small bunch of pipe/tube centers for the tailstock on a small lathe.

 

[zkling]

I forgot to add, my far fetched idea is that it is some type of artillery detonator/fuze. Based on overall shape and the way the sharp pin and cup float.

 

[Leadberry]

That definitely looks like a mortar fuze.

 

[404]

I forgot to add, my far fetched idea is that it is some type of artillery detonator/fuze. Based on overall shape and the way the sharp pin and cup float.

That is exactly what it looks like.

 

[Murphy4570]

Your far fetched idea is correct. That's a fuze for a mortar or artillery shell. Looks like it isn't a delay fuze like used in anti-aircraft shells, but one that ignites the high explosive shell upon contact. Likely mortar or regular artillery. What is the diameter of it and the thread pitch and size? You might be able to figure out what artillery shell it fits.