Object

Nazi Cannon

The Nazi tank's large-caliber main cannon (referred to as both a 'six-pound cannon' and the 'main gun' in different contexts), mounted on the rotating turret. The barrel has a limited pivot arc, creating exploitable blind spots. During the high-speed chase, Indiana Jones disrupts its operation twice: first by kicking the periscope handle (throwing the crew into disarray and causing wild misfires), and later by ramming a Kubelwagon into the tank's path (jamming the turret and blocking the barrel). These actions halt the cannon's fire, forcing Nazi troops to scramble inside the armored hull to spot targets through ports.

2 appearances

Purpose

Fire explosive shells at pursuing targets like Indy during the desert chase

Significance

Indy disables it through collision, stalling the Nazi pursuit and securing his escape. The cannon embodies brute mechanical force outmatched by his ingenuity, turning the tank's strength into vulnerability.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S1E3 · INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE

Indy’s Tactical Gambit: Turning the Tank’s Strength Against Itself

The Nazi Tank's six-pound cannon is the primary weapon of the convoy, designed to obliterate targets with precision. However, Indy's tactic of forcing a collision with the Kubelwagon lodges the sedan between the tank's treads, blocking the cannon's barrel and obscuring its view. This sabotage neutralizes the tank's most formidable weapon, leaving the crew unable to fire or track Indy effectively. The cannon's disablement is a direct result of Indy's understanding of the tank's mechanical vulnerabilities.

Before: Loaded and operational, mounted on the tank's turret, ready to fire on Indy's supply car.

After: Jammed and inoperable, blocked by the Kubelwagon lodged between the tank's treads, its barrel obstructed.

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S1E3 · INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE

The Gambit of Sacrifice: Cannon and Horse

The Nazi cannon is the primary target of Indy’s sabotage. Positioned in the desert valley, it represents the mechanical precision and firepower of the Nazi regime. Indy’s actions—jamming stones into its barrel and positioning his horse in its line of fire—directly challenge its functionality and the Nazis’ control over it. The cannon’s inability to fire due to the sabotage forces the Nazis to reassess their tactics, creating a critical window of vulnerability. Its presence in the scene symbolizes the industrial might of the enemy, while its failure underscores Indy’s ability to outmaneuver even the most formidable adversaries.

Before: Fully operational, aimed and ready to fire, manned by Nazi soldiers who are confident in its effectiveness.

After: Sabotaged and inoperable, its barrel clogged with stones, rendering it useless in the immediate conflict.

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