WW1 British BEF Caltrop (1)

The WW1 British BEF Caltrop is an original anti-personnel device used by the British Expeditionary Force during the First World War. Designed to impede enemy infantry and cavalry, caltrops consist of a metal spike arrangement configured so that one spike always points upward when placed on the ground. This example is fabricated from durable steel wire, typically twisted or welded to form four projecting points. The caltrop’s purpose was to injure the feet of advancing soldiers and horses or to damage vehicle tires, serving as an effective obstacle in defensive positions or during retreats. Caltraps like these were widely distributed along roads, footpaths, and in no-man’s-land to delay or disrupt enemy movements. The design dates back to ancient times but continued to be an auxiliary component of field defenses during the 20th century. This item measures approximately 5 cm across and retains its original construction, indicative of BEF field equipment used between 1914 and 1918.