Object

Wurrfler's Aft Main Deck Rail

Sturdy metal rail runs aft of the main deck on the submerging U-boat Wurrfler. Indy grabs it tightly for support as he hauls his soaked body aboard, pulling against rushing seawater and the tilting deck. Shliemann, the captain, Katanga, and aides stand nearby on the conning tower during the tense standoff.

2 appearances

Purpose

Provides handhold support and safety on the submarine deck during rough maneuvers

Significance

Anchors Indy's desperate scramble onto the sub, securing his hidden infiltration amid the captain's order to hold fire and the U-boat's dive

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S1E1 · RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK

Hold Fire — Shliemann's Restraint & Indy's Periscope Lifeline

The aft main deck rail is the first grip Indy finds when he pulls himself onto the sub; it anchors his initial haul out of the sea before he advances toward the conning tower.

Before: Fixed to the deck, exposed and wet as the sub maneuvers.

After: Gripped and used by Indy as he climbs; remains part of the deck's hardware, slick with seawater.

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S1E1 · RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK

Tethered to the Periscope

The aft main deck rail is the first obvious handhold Indy grasps upon emerging from the sea; it functions as the initial connection between the swimmer and the sub, enabling his subsequent scramble to the conning tower.

Before: Part of the exposed deck rail, unused and dry until Indy's arrival.

After: Wet and clawed by Indy; remains structurally intact but evidences recent struggle.

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