Lot 1593: World War II U.S. M16 Half-Track Multiple Gun Motor Carriage

Manufactured by the White Motor Company in 1943-44, the menacing M16 multiple gun motor carriage was based on the M3 half-track with a M45 quad mount featuring 4 M2 Browning .50 caliber machine guns. The M16 was intended for anti-aircraft use and had much success during WWII. As the Luftwaffe became less of the threat, the guns of the M16 more frequently turned on enemy infantry with great effect, earning it the gruesome nickname “The Meat Chopper.” The M16 was one of the few WWII half-tracks used during the Korean War. The introduction of fast moving jet aircraft made the vehicle as an anti-aircraft gun platform obsolete, but it once again proved its worth against ground targets, especially Chinese massed infantry attacks. Half tracks served with many armies including all wars Israel fought through the 1990s, and the quad continued service with the U.S. through the Vietnam War. This M16 has a White 160AX straight 6 cylinder gas engine, M45 mount equipped with four dummy M2 Browning type machine guns and four original tombstone ammunition cans, pioneer tools, original front mounted winch, and gasoline cans. This M16 was previously from the Ropkey Military Museum, Crawford, Indiana. Consignor research is included.

The vehicle is very good overall, including the paint and interior, and is operational and runs well. New Israeli track of the best quality has been installed. The quad mount is also operational. This highly recognizable WWII era half-track is a must have for the serious military vehicle collector.