[George Hopp]

There were also problems with the MK 108/Bf 110 combination. "Oblt. Rudolf Thun, NJG 5, observed, 'The MK 108 was disliked by most experienced crews. First, the muzzle flash was much too blinding for effective use at night, and second, the gun spring would not contain the pieces in case of a shell exploding in the barrel.' The second part of this complaint was echoed in the GWF memo of July, 12, 1944, which noted that continued fighter unit criticisms made necessary a strengthening of the MK 108's feed chutes, of the breech-block slide tubes and springs, and of the slide tube support plate." from Monogram Close-Up 18 "Bf 110G."

Nick, would you happen to have a date for your T 19/82 (Test unit 25 Achmer fitting it [MK 108] obliquely in Me 110) as we have a famous shot of such an installation in the 110 being shown to foreign airmen (Mankau, page 230), and it would be nice to get an appoximate date for the photo. Incidently, a single MK 108 was supposed to be used as an oblique weapon in the 110H. Some references say two, but there would not have been enough room for 2 MK 108s and their ammunition in the confined space behind the rear gunner.

Thanks for that info, Nick.
George