WW2 Artillery Cover?

[27Division18]

This appears to be a large cover for some type of artillery piece. It is stamped but all I can make out is "Cover." It appears to be for a barrel with a fairly large diameter. Does anyone know exactly what this cover is for? Thanks

[robinb]

Cover for the M1917A1 machinegun cradle.

[27Division18]

2 hours ago, robinb said:

Thanks very much. Is the cradle the same as the tripod?

 

Cover for the M1917A1 machinegun cradle.

 

[robinb]

The gun rests in the cradle. which in turn sits on top of the tripod.

[27Division18]

14 hours ago, robinb said:

The gun rests in the cradle. which in turn sits on top of the tripod.

Thanks very much