Dumb question on a bullet

[WHADIFIND]

I just don't know ammo. But, this shell came out of an old place. I've never dug one
just like it before. If I'm correct, center fire is a modern technique?

The shell is made of a fairly substantial thickness.

What is this shell?

 

[EccentricInTexas]

I'm pretty knowledge able on Ammo, I don't think its an actual bullet cartridge. I would go with primer to a larger shell of some kind. Though I've never seen anything like that. This site has a diagram for a Japanese WW2 artillery shell and the primer looks similar to that. Japanese 70-mm Howitzer Ammunition, WWII Tactical and Technical Trends, No. 37, November 4, 1943 (Lone Sentry)

 

[flinthunter]

My first thought was the same as angleofattack's. It looks just like the tear gas shots that the old timers used to shoot into fox dens and such.

 

[Charlie P. (NY)]

These are pretty close.

 

[EccentricInTexas]

^ I think we have a winner!!!

 

[Tedyoh]

View attachment 1217563
These are pretty close.

View attachment 1217564

Yes they are close, in unfired condition, but once fired I think they would look like a "standard" shell casing? (no taper)

 

[Red James Cash]

The cartridge most likely is from the Frankford Arsenal, Philadelphia, PA = F.A. 38 =1938

 

[Retired Sarge]

I'm leaning towards a blank cartridge. Although the one shown here is a center fire one, here is a rim fire one for comparison. Found at the following site.

Mc Pheeters Antique Militaria

"SPENCER BLANK CARTRIDGE: A Spencer Blank Cartridge in excellent condition. Blank ammunition was a regular issue item to the Cavalry troops, used to accustom the horses to gun fire, and to the infantry for ceremonies."