Скачать или смотреть Sherman Firefly's Problem - Muzzle Blast and Crew Blindness

Uncover one of the most significant and challenging technical flaws of the legendary Sherman Firefly: the intense muzzle blast from its powerful Ordnance QF 17-pounder gun. While this weapon gave the Allies a much-needed counter to German heavy armor, its immense power came at a serious cost to its crew.
This detailed analysis explores how the massive muzzle flash and blast wave frequently caused temporary blindness, especially in low-light situations. We examine the severe tactical implications of this issue, which hindered the gunner and commander's ability to track the fall of their shots, forcing a heavy reliance on external spotting for aiming corrections. Furthermore, we investigate how the notoriously cramped turret of the Sherman Firefly amplified this dangerous effect, leaving the crew with little protection from the concussive force.