This is a Radius bottle for dispensing maths/spirits to the priming cups of lanterns and stoves. If you have ever tried priming an Optimus/Primus/Radius/Petromax - type lantern, you will know why the shape of the delivery tube is essential. It also aids in dispensing to stove priming cups as well. The clever part of these bottles is that they deliver a measured dose of spirit so that the priming cup does not flood and overfill. Although these bottles have been around for a long time, I think this bottle is from the 1960s as it is almost identical to a bottle I have in a Radius military stove which I also think is from the 1960s. Of course, if you know different, then I would be delighted to know. Please excuse my drawing of how the bottle works - it is just a sketch and does not reflect the actual dimensions.
Hi Trevor. I am supposed to learn something new everyday, clever idea, I had no idea. Your drawing/sketch is actually very good.
Unfortunately the plate that divides the two compartments is the first thing that is rusted through. Most of my old bottles are OK in the meaning that they hold the spirit inside, but since the divider plate often is severely rusted, the measuring function is long gone. On some the rust holes are concentrated in the centre of the plate, meaning that the measuring works to some extents. Just not giving the full dose anymore. Have a look down your bottles folks! Even if you think they work OK, they might actually give a too small amount due to this corrosion.
