SOLD - Cased Infrared M3 Sniper Scope (101822-1)

Description

11/1/22 - Developed during WWII, the M3 was named a "sniper scope" in official nomenclature to obscure its true function as an early infra-red night scope, capable of spotting targets at over 100 yards and detecting other IR-sources up to a mile away. Mounted on an M1 semi-automatic carbine, the scope could be used by night sentries to detect incoming sneak attacks, and direct outbound machine gun and rifle fire with tracer rounds. The scope measures 16 inches long with a Army Corps of Engineers/American Optical Company markings on a sticker on the right side of the base. In a green painted hardwood case with white stenciled "U.S./SNIPERSCOPE/INFRARED/SET NO.1, 20000 VOLTS" on top of the lid, another Army Corps of Engineers/American Optical tag on the inside. The case contains the original pieces, including the power pack and its rubberized canvas pouch, the attaching wires, handle, etc. It's overall in very good condition, one of the nicer examples you'll see.