Trench Firing Device?

[butlersrangers]

"Breakeyp" posted a couple of relevant patent drawings for this device, but, it does not appear most are understanding this apparatus. The S.M.L.E. has been fitted with a bronze armature that allows it to be attached to a Cummings Sub-Target Gun Machine.

(This is not a sub-caliber artillery device).

The Sub-Target Machine was a teaching/practice shooting aid. It helped facilitate proper and consistent sight picture, steady position and good trigger-pull, without the use of ammo. (It operated similar to the later "Dotter" devices).

A rifle fitted with the armature could be attached to the "Machine". The "shooter" was able to move the rifle normally, had to support only the normal weight of the rifle and aimed at a distant target.
A pointed rod, attached to the machine, moved parallel and in synchronization with the rifle.
When the "shooter" Dry-Fired at the distant target, the rod made a Pin-Prick on a miniature target (sub-target) held in a small frame on the Machine. Multiple Dry-Firing made multiple pin holes that showed aiming consistency and could be 'scored'.

The Cummings Sub-Target Machines were made in Boston, by Wilkinson in England, and possibly in Toronto, Canada. The U.S. Machines used a cable and linkages, actuated by the striker. The Wilkinson Machines used a wet-cell, wiring, solenoid, and trigger actuated switch.
The Machines cost about $400 to $500 and were in use from the early 1900's to WW1. They were used all over the world and could be adapted to any service rifle. 'Blanks' could be used to further simulate Live Fire.

These "Cummings' Machines" have been illustrated in numerous 'Gun Books', but, are generally overlooked. "U.K. N.R.A. Miniature Calibre Rifles" has some wonderful content on these devices.

I do not know if one of these 'Cummings Machines' has survived the last 100 years. Few would recognize or have a clue, if one was stored in a dusty closet somewhere.

Known purchasers: New York Pubic Schools/Police Athletic League (12 to 20 of them). U.S. Military Academies, Michigan State Troops-3rd Regiment, Royal Navy (for bases and some ships), British Army and Military Academies, some Canadian and U.S. Military Schools.

The Machine allowed intra and inter-school "Competition" without ammo.

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