15 inch BL Siege Howitzer (1915)
This highly detailed model represents the British 15-inch BL Siege Howitzer introduced during the First World War. Designed to deliver exceptionally heavy shells against fortified positions, it captures the imposing scale and industrial character of Britain’s largest land-based siege artillery. Awarded our RARE FIND badge, this model depicts a large First World War howitzer that remains an uncommon subject for military modellers and collectors.
Historical Role
Operated by the Royal Garrison Artillery, the 15-inch BL Howitzer was intended for deliberate bombardment on the Western Front. Its high-angle fire was used against trenches, dugouts, strongpoints and other hardened targets that lighter field artillery could not readily defeat. The weapon required extensive preparation, specialist crews and carefully organised transport, reflecting the logistical demands of heavy siege warfare.
Distinctive Appearance
The howitzer is immediately recognisable by its enormous, relatively short barrel, substantial breech and heavy supporting cradle. Its robust mounting, prominent recoil equipment and broad firing platform give it a powerful, almost architectural appearance. These features make the model an impressive centrepiece and clearly distinguish it from more mobile field guns and conventional long-barrelled artillery pieces.
Modelling Uses
Ideal for First World War artillery batteries, rear-area gun positions, ammunition scenes and engineering dioramas, this model can also add historical interest to model railways featuring military traffic or supply depots. It is equally suitable for wargaming displays, museum-style collections and collectors seeking an unusual example of British heavy artillery. Larger scales provide greater visual presence, while smaller versions work well in expansive battlefield settings.
Fun Fact
The term “BL” stands for “breech loading.” Although its 15-inch calibre matched that of major British battleship guns, the siege howitzer used a much shorter barrel and high-angle trajectory for attacking land fortifications rather than engaging targets at sea.
Available Scales
1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35.
Finish Options
Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, and Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
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