Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 6)

          

Examination of Czechoslovakian Ammunition Production/Inventory

Artillery Ammunition

 

The multiplicity of models and calibers of artillery weapons in the Czech Army in the past made an almost intolerable situation as regards ammunition supply, although ammunition for nearly all the available pieces is being produced in Czechoslovakia.  It is presumed that the artillery ammunition reserve stocks are approaching a safe level at present.

Projectiles manufactured in Czechoslovakia for the Czech Army are unpainted (color of machined metal).  On their surface are various stenciled markings which are usually in red.  A typical arrangement of the markings, reading from nose to base of the projectile, is as follows:

Vertical red line on shell body at junction with fuze --- Fuze index mark, for combination fuze

A group of 2 to 4 letters --- Relates to filler

Red band, around center of shell body --- Indicates a projectile fitted with a combination fuze

Letters and/or symbol --- Trademark and location of manufacturer

Letter and fraction or Roman numeral --- Lot number and year of manufacture

The meanings of some of the letters relating to projectile fillers have been determined as:

TP --- Bursting charge of Cast TNT and booster fitted with a safety device.

TTR --- Bursting charge of Pressed TNT and booster.

TTRP or TTP --- Bursting charge of Pressed TNT and booster with a safety device.


Cartridge cases bear stenciled and stamped markings on the base.  The stenciled markings are black and are arranged in a curved line along the rim.  Typical stenciled markings, and their meanings, might be:

14 x 4.3/970-mm  --- Size of propellant in mm.

Vz 38 trp --- Type of propellent

S 1/36 --- Series and year of manufacture

The stamped markings are arranged in straight lines on the base of the case.  An example of the stampings on a case might be:

a symbol --- Trademark of firm

1920 --- Year of manufacture

3 --- Lot of series

21 cm Vz 16 --- Using weapon

Detailed information on Czech artillery ammunition packaging is not available.  It is known that both wooden and metal packing boxes of conventional construction are used.  Czech packing may be expected to be of approximately equal quality with that of the larger industrial nations.  Identifying markings apparently are stenciled on the boxes, but details of their arrangement and precise meaning are not found.

75mm Complete Round, Fixed, HE, OCG Model ?
(7.5-cm OCG Vz. ?)

This high-explosive round is fired from the Czech 75-mm anti-aircraft gun M1932 (Skoda) with a time fuze of a model as yet unidentified.  The M1932 (Skoda) is to be found also in the Albanian and Rumanian Armies.  Czech ammunition for the weapon, therefore, may be encountered in these two Satellite countries.

The steel projectile is unpainted, with red markings.  A red band around the center of the projectile indicates the use of a combination fuze.  The groove between the two rotating bands is packed with a heavy grease.  The cartridge case is made of brass; stamped and stenciled markings appear on the base of the cartridge case.

Characteristics
Caliber: 75mm (2.95 in)
Weight of complete round: 11.87kg (26.38 lb)

Weight of projectile, as fired: ? kg (? lb)

Weight of propellant, w/o igniter: ? kg (? lb)

Type of projectile filler: Cast TNT

Weight of projectile filler: ? kg (? lb)

Packaging

No photo available

Information on packaging of this round is not available.

75mm Complete Round, Semi-Fixed, HE, OCG Model 14/14a
(7.5-cm OCG Vz. 14/14a)

No photo available

 This round, for the Czech 75-mm mountain howitzer M15, is known to exist, and its Czech nomenclature indicates that it uses a combination fuze, but further data on the round is not available.

Characteristics

Caliber: 75mm (2.95 in)
Weight of complete round: ? kg (? lb)

Weight of projectile, as fired: ? kg (? lb)

Weight of propellant, w/o igniter: ? kg (? lb)

Type of projectile filler: ?

Weight of projectile filler: ? kg (? lb)

Packaging

No photo available

Information on packaging of this round is not available.

76.5mm Complete Round, Fixed, HE, OCG Model ?
(7.65-cm OCG Vz. ?)

This high-explosive round is fired from the Czech 76.5mm anti-aircraft gun model 1928.  This weapon is also used by Bulgaria, and accordingly Czech-manufactured ammunition for the weapon may be encountered in Bulgaria.  The round uses a combination fuze of an unidentified model.

The steel projectile is unpainted, with red markings.  A red band around the center of the projectile indicates the use of a combination fuze.  The cartridge case is made of brass.  It is believed that propellent and manufacturing data are stamped and stenciled on the cartridge case base, in accordance with the practice commonly followed for other Czech artillery rounds.

Characteristics
Caliber: 76.5mm (3.19 in)
Weight of complete round: ? kg (? lb)

Weight of projectile, as fired: ? kg (? lb)

Weight of propellant, w/o igniter: ? kg (? lb)

Type of projectile filler: ?

Weight of projectile filler: ? kg (? lb)

Packaging

No photo available

Information on packaging of this round is not available.

Next Time: Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 7)

Source: Original US-supplied Canadian Manual on Soviet & Soviet Satellite Explosives (No. 30-14-2)

Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 5)

         

Examination of Czechoslovakian Ammunition Production/Inventory

Mortar Ammunition

 

The Skoda establishment of Czechoslovakia has produced two original post-World War II mortars: the 82mm mortar Model 1948 and the 120mm mortar Model 1948.  Both mortars are separable into pack units and are used for mountain infantry support.  They are used by the Ethiopian Army and the 82mm M1948 is used in the Czechoslovak Army, but whether or not the 120mm M1948 is also in service with the Czech Army is unknown.

Formerly, the Skoda concern produced the Czech 50mm light mortar; mortars of this caliber, however, are no longer standard.  Czechoslovakia has also produced German mortars and ammunition from 1938 to 1945.

The USSR has provided the Czech Army with cerain Soviet mortars in some quantity.  The Soviet 82mm battalion mortar M1941, 106mm mountain-pack regimental mortar M1938, and 120mm regimental mortar M1938 are considered standard in the Czech Army.  The Soviet 160mm mortar M1943 has also been reported as being used by the Czechs, but the extent of use has not been ascertained.  Ammunition of Soviet origin for these weapons will doubtless be found in the Czech Army, although Czech-made Soviet shells may be more common.

The German 81mm mortar M1934 and the 120mm mortar M1942 (a copy of the Soviet 120mm mortar) are still used by the Czech Army.  British 2-inch and 3-inch mortars are reportedly held in a reserve status.  Whether ammunition for these weapons (except the German 120mm, which can fire Soviet shells) is restricted to stockpiles dating from World War II, or whether it is currently being produced in limited quantities, is unknown.  The German 81mm has been modified to fire 82mm ammunition.  In addition, the Czech 82mm M1948 is in use in the Army.

The Czech mortar ammunition described in the following comprises the rounds for the Czech-manufactured 82mm mortars which are used by the Ethiopian and Czech armies and the 120mm used by the Ethiopian Army.  The ammunition is of conventional design and presents no outstanding features.  The colors of the ammunition components and the packing box have not been reported.  The stenciled markings are in French.  If these items were used by another country, in all probability the language used would change accordingly.

82mm Mortar Shell, HE
(Czechoslovak Nomenclature Unknown)

 This steel, eight-finned, high-explosive projectile is fired from the Czech-made (Skoda) 82mm Model 1948.  The weapon is in use by Ethiopian and Czechoslovak armies.

The round is of conventional teardrop shape, but incorporates no gas check bands on the bourrelet.  It uses a point detonating impact fuze and a shotgun-shell-type ignition cartridge.  The ignition cartridge body is made of cardboard and contains 7.5 grams of powder.  The propellent increments come in plastic (celluloid) cases and contain 7.8 grams of powder each.  The ignition cartridge alone produces an initial velocity of 220 feet per second; the ignition cartridge plus six increments produces an initial velocity of 722 feet per second.

Stenciled markings on the shell indicate its caliber and type, the type of explosive filler, the date of manufacture, the arsenal symbol, the weight classification, and the fuze model used.  The cap of the fuze is stenciled to indicate the caliber and type of shell and the fuze model (Mp 36).

If the shell is also used by countries other than Ethiopia, the identification markings would probably vary with the using country.  The markings shown are the export version sold to Ethiopia by Czechoslovakia.

Characteristics
Caliber: 82mm (3.23 in)
Weight of complete round: 3.35kg (7.39 lb)
Weight of propellent: 54.3g (1.91 oz)
Type of filler: TNT

Weight of filler: ? kg (? lb)

Maximum number of increments: 6


Packaging

Three of these shells complete with fuzes, ignition cartridge, and propellent increments are packed in a  wooden carrying case.  The case has a handle at the front end and a metal eye at the rear end for hand carrying or animal transport.  The top of the box has two hinges in the rear and is secured by two snap locks in front.  The dimensions and weight shown above are approximated measurements.  The French markings given above are found on packaging in use by Ethiopia, the only country besides Czechoslovakia definitely known to use this ammunition. 

120mm Mortar Shell, HE
(Czechoslovakian Nomenclature Unknown)

 

This steel, twelve-finned, high-explosive projectile is of conventional teardrop design.  It is fired from the Czech-designed and made (Skoda) 120mm mountain pack mortar M1948, which is intended for mountain infantry support.  At present this weapon is used by the Ethiopian Army; whether it is used by the Czech Army is unknown.  

The shell uses a 31-gram shotgun-shell-type ignition cartridge, bagged propellent increment charges, and a point detonating impact fuze Model Mp Z 36.  The shell has an average wall thickness of 0.6 inch.  The protective cap on the fuze must be removed prior to firing.  The fuze may be set for either instantaneous or 0.08-second delay action by positioning the nose of the fuze to align an arrow with an index.  The propellent increment bags are secured to the fin shaft by a loop of string (fastened to one end of the bag) which is placed over a ball formed by the opposite end of the bag.  Charge 1 includes the ignition cartridge and 100 grams of propellant in a red bag.  Charges 2, 3, and 4 include Charge 1 plus one, two, or three green-bagged increments of 135 grams each.  At a normal rate of six rounds per minute, performance of the shell varies from a range of 450 meters and an initial velocity of 115 meters per second with Charge 1, to a range of 5,000 meters and an initial velocity of 255 meters per second with Charge 4.

Stenciled markings on the shell indicate its caliber and type, the type of explosive filler, the date of manufacture, the arsenal symbol, the weight classification, and the fuze model used.  The fuze is stencil marked to indicate the caliber and type of shell and the fuze model (Mp Z 36).  The base and walls of the ignition cartridge are reportedly marked to indicate the cartridge and powder types.  If the shell is also used by countries other than Ethiopia, the identification markings would probably vary with the using country.


Characteristics

Caliber: 120mm (4.72 in)
Weight of complete round: 16.2kg (35.71 lb)
Weight of propellent: 536g (18.9 oz)
Type of filler: Cast TNT

Weight of filler: 2.35 kg (5.18 lb)

Maximum number of increments: 4

Packaging

This shell is packed two complete rounds to a wooden box.  The box weighs 15.87 pounds empty, has a metal carrying handle at each end, metal hinges, and is secured in front by two metal catches.  It has two metal rings by means of which it can be tied to a pack animal.  Two boxes form one pack load.  The interior surface of the box is coated with grease, and the exterior surface is painted olive drab.  The shell are packed fuzed.  The ignition cartridges and propellent increments are packed in cylindrical metal cans.  The dimensions and weight shown above are approximate measurements.  The only markings on this box so far reported have been in French as shown above.   The only country definitely known to use this ammunition is Ethiopia.

Next Time: Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 6)

Source: Original US-supplied Canadian Manual on Soviet & Soviet Satellite Explosives (No. 30-14-2)

Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 4)

        

Examination of Czechoslovakian Ammunition Production/Inventory

9mm Pistol Cartridge "Parabellum"
(9mm Pistolovy Naboj "Parabellum")

 

This cartridge, which is one of the most popular in the world, is used in the Czech Model 23 and Model 25 submachinegun, as well as in various Czech-held German submachineguns and pistols which are chambered for the 9mm Parabellum.  The cartridge is manufactured in Czechoslovakia with both steel- and lead-cored bullets, and with bullet jackets of steel, nickel-plated steel, cupro-nickel-plated steel, gilding metal, or gilding-metal-plated steel.  Cases are usually brass, although steel might be encountered.  Primers usually have a black or navy blue annulus.  The cartridge can be used in any pistol of submachinegun chambered for 9mm Parabellum cartridges.


Characteristics
Caliber: 9mm (cal. 354)
Weight of cartridge: 10.56g (164 gr)
Weight of case: 3.8g (60 gr)
Weight of bullet: 6.4g (98 gr)
Weight of propellent: 0.36g (5.6 gr)
Length of cartridge: 29mm (1.17 in)
Length of case: 19mm (0.74 in)
Length of bullet: 15.5mm (0.61 in)


Packaging

 

This 9mm ammunition for the Czech Model 23 and Model 25 submachineguns is packed in 8-round metal chargers, with 40 rounds (5 chargers) per cardboard carton.  Fifty-seven such cartons (2,280 rounds) are packed in an unpainted wooden box.  This box has a hinged lid and there is an iron carrying handle at each end.  The tops of the cartons and the box have white labels with Czech markings in black letters.

9mm Ball Cartridge, Model 22
(9mm Ostry Naboj Vz.22)

 

This cartridge is universally used and manufactured.  In Czechoslovakia, it is used in the Model 24 and Model 38 pistols.  It is also a common commercial cartridge in Czechoslovakia.  Base markings usually show manufacturer's symbol and caliber.  Considerable variations may be encountered in bullet and propellent weights.

A dummy version of this cartridge is the 9mm Model 24 (9mm Skolni Naboj Vz. 24), which is used for training purposes; the dummy has no primer in the primer pocket.


Characteristics
Caliber: 9mm (cal. 354)
Weight of cartridge: 9.71g (150 gr)
Weight of case: 3.3g (51 gr)
Weight of bullet: 6.16g (95 gr)
Weight of propellent: 0.26g (4 gr)
Length of cartridge: 23.89mm (0.98 in)
Length of case: 17.01mm (0.67 in)
Length of bullet: 10.92mm (0.43 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

15mm Armor-Piercing Cartridge, Model 38
(Czechoslovakian Nomenclature Unknown)

 

This cartridge was designed for the Czech ZB60 heavy machinegun and may also be used in the British 15mm Besa machinegun.  The projectile body of this round is covered with graphite grease between the two rotating bands.  Armor penetration at 325 yards against face-hardened plate at an obliquity of 30 degrees is believed to be 15mm (0.59 inch).  The cartridge would therefore still be effective against lightly armored vehicles.  The cartridge is identified by its brass-colored projectile.


Characteristics
Caliber: 15mm (cal. .59)
Weight of cartridge: ?g (? gr)
Weight of case: ?g (? gr)
Weight of bullet: 73.8g (1,140 gr)
Weight of propellent: ?g (? gr)
Length of cartridge: 148mm (5.81 in)
Length of case: 104mm (4.09 in)
Length of bullet: 67mm (2.62 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

15mm High-Explosive Tracer Cartridge, Model 38
(Czechoslovakian Nomenclature Unknown)

 

This cartridge was designed for the Czech ZB60 heavy machinegun and may also be used in the British 15mm Besa machinegun.  It is not known whether this cartridge is still considered standard in the Czech Army.  Its fuze is reported to be of the tracer self-destroying type, and is basically intended for anti-aircraft missions.  The nose fuze is brass-colored and the projectile body is painted black.  The portion of the projectile body between the two rotating bands is covered with graphite grease.


Characteristics
Caliber: 15mm (cal. .59)
Weight of cartridge: ?g (? gr)
Weight of case: ?g (? gr)
Weight of bullet: 63.8g (985 gr)
Weight of propellent: ?g (? gr)
Length of cartridge: 151mm (5.93 in)
Length of case: 104mm (4.09 in)
Length of bullet: 71mm (2.78 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

15mm Blank Cartridge, Model 38
(Czechoslovakian Nomenclature Unknown)

 

This cartridge is used for training purposes in the Czech ZB60 heavy machinegun.  The bullet is made of wood and is not colored.  There is a small powder charge in the bullet to insure its breaking up when fired.  This round may also be used in the British 15mm Besa machiengun.


Characteristics
Caliber: 15mm (cal. .59)
Weight of cartridge: ?g (? gr)
Weight of case: ?g (? gr)
Weight of bullet: ?g (? gr)
Weight of propellent: ?g (? gr)
Length of cartridge: 146mm (5.81 in)
Length of case: 104mm (4.09 in)
Length of bullet: 74mm (2.93 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

Next Time: Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 5)

Source: Original US-supplied Canadian Manual on Soviet & Soviet Satellite Explosives (No. 30-14-2)

Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 3)

       

Examination of Czechoslovakian Ammunition Production/Inventory

7.92mm Red Tracer Cartridge, Model 28
(7.92mm Ostry Cervene Svitiei Naboj Vz. 28)

 

This cartridge, which produces a red trace, is basically designed for use in machine guns but may be used in all weapons chambered for 7.92mm x 57mm ammunition.  Although available documentary sources do not give a distinctive color marking for this round, it is believe to be identified by a red primer annulus.


Characteristics
Caliber: 7.92mm (cal. 311)
Weight of cartridge: 24.6g (379 gr)
Weight of case: 11.5g (177 gr)
Weight of bullet: 10.25g (158 gr)
Weight of propellent: 2.9g (44 gr)
Length of cartridge: 80mm (3.15 in)
Length of case: 57mm (2.24 in)
Length of bullet: 36.5mm (1.43 in)


Packaging

No picture available

 

Information on packaging of this round is not available.

7.92mm Ball Target Cartridge, Model 27
(7.92mm Ostry Tercovy Naboj Vz.27)

 
This cartridge is identified by a "T" marked on the cartridge case base and by the split bullet jacket.  It is used for target practice in 7.92mm rifles and carbines.  It can be used in any rifle or carbine chambered for 7.92mm x 57mm cartridges.


Characteristics
Caliber: 7.92mm (cal. 311)
Weight of cartridge: 25.15g (388 gr)
Weight of case: 11.5g (177 gr)
Weight of bullet: 10.4g (160 gr)
Weight of propellent: 3g (46 gr)
Length of cartridge: 80mm (3.15 in)
Length of case: 57mm (2.24 in)
Length of bullet: 28mm (1.1 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

7.92mm Blank Cartridge (Red Bullet), Model 30
(7.92mm Cvieny Naboj Vz.30)

 

This cartridge is used for training with rifles.  It has a cotton or wool fiber wad over the propellent charge; the wad is not as large as that used in the machine gun blank cartridge.  The wooden bullet breaks up completely and is not dangerous beyond normal safety limits for blank cartridges.  The bullet is colored red as a means of identification.  It ca be used in any weapon chambered for 7.92mm x 57mm rimless ammunition.


Characteristics
Caliber: 7.92mm (cal. 311)
Weight of cartridge: 15.1g (234 gr)
Weight of case: 11.5g (177 gr)
Weight of bullet: 0.6g (9.3 gr)
Weight of propellent: 2.3g (35 gr)
Length of cartridge: 80mm (3.15 in)
Length of case: 57mm (2.24 in)
Length of bullet: 32.3mm (1.27 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

7.92mm Blank Cartridge (Yellow Bullet), Model 30
(7.92mm Cvieny Naboj Vz.30)

This round is loaded for training use in machine guns.  A large cotton or wool fiber wad rests over the propellent charge and assists in building up enough gas pressure to operate the machine gun automatically.  The wooden bullet is colored yellow to distinguish it from other blank cartridges.  This cartridge should not be used in weapons having a compensator or muzzle brake, since unburned wads may accumulate and cause dangerous pressures.


Characteristics
Caliber: 7.92mm (cal. 311)
Weight of cartridge: 17.4g (269 gr)
Weight of case: 11.5g (177 gr)
Weight of bullet: 0.5g (7.72 gr)
Weight of propellent: 2.4g (37.1 gr)
Length of cartridge: 80mm (3.15 in)
Length of case: 57mm (2.24 in)
Length of bullet: 29.1mm (1.14 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

7.92mm Dummy Cartridge, Model 24
(7.92mm Skolni Naboj Vz.24)

 
This cartridge is used for training purposes.  In internal construction, it is entirely different from United States dummy cartridges.  A wooden rod is fitted into the base of a light ball bullet, and extends to the cartridge case base.  Instead of a primer, there is a rubber insert in the primer pocket.  The rubber insert saves wear on the firing pin during "dry" firing exercises.  The cartridge can be used for training or testing purposes in any weapon chambered for 7.92mm x 57mm cartridges.   The round may be found with horizontal grooves in the cartridge case rather than the vertical grooves shown in the illustration.


Characteristics
Caliber: 7.92mm (cal. 311)
Weight of cartridge: ?g (? gr)
Weight of case: 11.5g (177 gr)
Weight of bullet: ?g (? gr)
Weight of propellent: Not Applicable
Length of cartridge: 80mm (3.15 in)
Length of case: 57mm (2.24 in)
Length of bullet: 28.4mm (1.11 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

7.92mm Reduced Charge Cartridge, Model 30
(7.92mm Ostry Redukovany Naboj Vz.30)

 

This cartridge is fired in the Czech ZB26 light machine gun, and may also be used in any other weapon chambered for 7.92mm x 57mm cartridges.  It might be called a shot cartridge, by United States definition.  It has a small lead pellet seated in the head of its wooden bullet.  When the round is fired, the wooden bullet breaks up and the lead pellet continues on its way.  The range and effectiveness of the pellet would be insignificant, however, and its purpose is obscure.  Because performance of the pellet is unpredictable, the round should be used with caution.  The cartridge can be distinguished by its purple-colored wooden bullet.

Base markings usually indicate manufacturer's symbol and date of manufacture.  Specimens with a blackened cartridge case have also been observed.


Characteristics
Caliber: 7.92mm (cal. 311)
Weight of cartridge: 15.11g (234 gr)
Weight of case: 11.5g (177 gr)
Weight of bullet: 0.86g (13.3 gr)
Weight of propellent: 2.33g (36 gr)
Length of cartridge: 80mm (3.15 in)
Length of case: 57mm (2.24 in)
Length of bullet: 31.6mm (1.24 in)


Packaging

No picture available


Information on packaging of this round is not available.

Next Time: Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 4)

Source: Original US-supplied Canadian Manual on Soviet & Soviet Satellite Explosives (No. 30-14-2)

German Explosive Ordnance - German Mines and Grenades (Part 19)

      

German Explosives

Pistol Grenade Message

Description: The round consists of a pre-rifled aluminum grenade with a plastic head and an aluminum cartridge case.  The black plastic head contains a message form and a pencil and screws on to the body.  The pre-rifled body contains a smoke generator, a colored silk streamer and an ejection charge.  The aluminum case is marked "Nachr Z."  The round is designed for use in the 27mm rifled signal pistol.

Operation: On firing, the flash from the propellant ignites the delay pellet in the grenade base plate.  This, in turn, ignites the ejecting charge which expels the message container, smoke generator and silk streamer from the grenade body in flight.

27mm Multi-Star Signal Cartridge

Overall Length: 6 inches

Maximum Diameter: 1.06 inches

Filling: Propellant and Pyrotechnic

Description: The cartridge consists of a light alloy outer container complete with the propelling charge and an inner container in which there are six star units.  Running through the center of the star units is an assembly of two brass tubes which are held in position by a central cannelure into which the inner container is indented and fixed by means of a steel pin.  The outer tube has one set of six flash holes which coincide with the inner surfaces of the six stars.  The inner tube has six sets of holes in the outer tube by means of the setting cap, which is fixed to the inner tube by a spring retaining clip on the closing screw.  The inner tube contains gunpowder and is closed at the inner end by a screwed plug which contains a delay pellet.  It is used for signaling.

Operation: The desired combination of colored stars is obtained by moving the index mark on the setting cap to the appropriate position on the scale, which is graduated from 0 to 40.

The six combinations of stars are:

Commencing with 3 red and 3 green at "0", its other combinations would be obtained at settings 7, 14, 21, 27, and 34 respectively.

In firing, the inner container is ejected, and after the delay pellet has burned through, the flash passes immediately along the whole length of the inner tube, igniting and ejecting the stars in accordance with the setting.  The stars which are not ignited remain in the container and fall to earth intact.

Next Time: Soviet Satellite Country Ammunition - Czechoslovakia (Part 3)

Source: German Explosive Ordnance Vol. 1: Bombs, Rockets, Grenades, Mines, Fuzes & Igniters 

German Explosive Ordnance - German Mines and Grenades (Part 18)

     

German Explosives

Pistol Grenade, 326 Leuchtpistole (26mm Wurfgranatepatrone)

Overall Length: 4.5 inches

Maximum Diameter: 1 inch

Weight of Complete Round: 4.2 ounces

Weight of Projectile: 3.2 ounces

Filler: TNT

Weight of Filler: 7 grams

Color: Yellow

Description: This grenade consists of a projectile having the appearance of a miniature mortar shell and a brass cartridge case.  The two parts are crimped together.

The grenade itself is constructed in two parts:  the nose cap and the body.  The nose cap is rounded and screws into the body of the grenade.  Within the body is a case containing the detonator and main filling.  Between the case and the fixed firing pin in the nose cap is a creep spring.  The case is prevented from moving forward before firing by two metal balls fitting into a hole in the base of the carrier and resting in grooves in a platform in the body.  An arming rod fits between the balls holding them out.

On the base are four fins which have the same diameter as the body.  Contained in the cartridge case which fits over the after part of the grenade is about 0.1 ounce of rifle powder.

Operation: On firing, the arming rod will be forced out of the base by setback.  This will happen after 10 to 12 yards of flight and the grenade is then armed.  When the rod falls out, the balls will move in and the case is free to move forward except for the creep spring.  On impact, the case moves forward and the detonator moves onto the fixed firing pin thus exploding the grenade.

H.E. Cartridge for 27mm (1-inch) Grenade Pistol (Sprengpatrone Fur Kampfpistole)

Overall Length: 3 inches

Weight of Complete Round: 5 ounces

Weight of Projectile: 3.5 ounces

Filler: PETN/Wax

Weight of Filler: 339 grams

Propellant: Graphited black powder

Color: Unpainted aluminum

Description: This grenade consists of a die cast aluminum container which encases a steel tube containing the explosive.  The fuse screws to the steel tube and the tube and aluminum container are secured by knurling and indents.  The propellant charge is contained in a cup which has a push fit to the grenade with 10 holes in the cup to lead the gases to the base of the grenade.

The grenade has five grooves making one-quarter turn in the length of the projectile, grooved on the aluminum body.  The steel liner is threaded internally to take a nose percussion fuze.  The explosive filler consists of two penthrite wax pellets separated by cardboard discs.  The fuze is a direct action type and is fitted with a protruding striker head.  The striker is held away from the primer by six steel balls which rest in a groove in the striker and on a platform of the fuze.  These balls are kept in position by a steel collar which is supported on three aluminum pins.  There is also a creep spring between the striker and the primer.  Beneath the primer there is a gaine contained in an aluminum case and consisting of lead azide and lead styphnate in the upper part and PETN in the lower part.  Between the gaine and the main filling there is an empty air space.

The discharge cup is a push fit with the base of the grenade which is turned down to fit into the cup.  The cup has in its base a lead styphnate primer contained in a brass holder.  Forward of the cap is the propelling charge of black powder and 10 holes to lead the gases to the base of the grenade.

Operation: On firing, the propelling charge propels the grenade and it rotates because of the rifling on the body.  On setback, the collar in the fuze moves back crushing the aluminum pins and, because of the centrifugal force, the balls then fly outward, freeing the striker which is kept off the primer by the creep spring.  On impact, the striker impinges the primer, setting off the gaine and main filler.

Hollow Charge Signal Pistol Grenade (Pz. W. K. 42 L. P.)

Weight: 1 pound 5 ounces

Diameter of Head: 2.4 inches

Diameter of Tail Tube: 0.875 inches

Description: The head of this grenade is pear shaped, contains the hollow charge and is fitted with an impact cap at the forward end.  At the rear is the tail tube containing the graze fuze, detonator and gaine.  A short length of this tube is prerifled.  Attached to this tail tube by a shear pin is a thinner tube containing the propellant, percussion cap and shearing bolt.

The grenade is fired from the German Walther 27mm signal pistol.  In order to fire this grenade, the signal pistol is fitted with a 23mm rifled linear, a special sight, and a folding butt.

Operation: The complete round is loaded into the signal pistol from the muzzle end.  The propellant tube fits freely in the fore until the prerifled band hits the muzzle.  At that point, the grenade has to be screwed into the rifling of the pistol.  The grenade is safe until fired.

On firing, the propellant gases drive forward the shearing bolt which breaks the shear pin and the grenade is discharged.  The graze fuze in the tail unit is armed by setback as the grenade leaves the pistol.

Next Time: German Mines and Grenades (Part 19)

Source: German Explosive Ordnance Vol. 1: Bombs, Rockets, Grenades, Mines, Fuzes & Igniters 

German Explosive Ordnance - German Mines and Grenades (Part 17)

    

German Explosives

Hollow Charge Grenade Faustpatrone

Overall Length: 41 inches

Length of Tube: 31.5 inches

Length of Body: 19.5 inches

Calibre of Tube: 1.75 inches

Weight of Grenade: 6.62 pounds

Weight of Tube and Grenade: 11 pounds

Weight of Filler: 3.4 pounds

Effective Range: 33 yards

Description: The Faustpatrone consists of a large hollow charge H.E. grenade and a projecting tube.  The grenade consists of a large head and a cylindrical body terminating in a tal to which are attached four spring steel stabilizing fins.  The body contains a base fuze and a booster.

The projector is a simple metal tube in which is located a propellant charge contained in a waxed cardboard container held in position by a set screw.  On the opposite side of the set screw is an igniter situated below a flash hole.  On top of the tube is a simple firing mechanism with release button, firing pin and spring, and a safety catch.  There is also a folding sight.

Operation: The grenade is armed by unscrewing the tail and inserting the booster and fuze, open ends facing each other.  The tail is then replaced.  The fins are wrapped around the tail and the grenade inserted into the tube.  The pressure of the fins against the inside of the tube serves to retain the grenade in position.

The firing mechanism is cocked by pushing the lock forward until the release button emerges.  The lock then slides back to its original position.  The weapon is now cocked and "safe".

To make ready for firing, the lock is rotated 90 degrees to the left.  The tube is held under the right arm, the left hand supporting the forward part.  Aiming is accomplishing by aligning the sight, placed vertical to the tube.  The sight is adjustable for a range of 33 yards.  To fire, depress the release button, thus allowing the striker to go forward.  The tube cannot be used a second time.

Safety Precautions:

1. Set Faustpatrone to "fire" only when using.  The Faustpatrone can be set to safe again if it has not been fired.

2. To set from "fire" to "safe" , turn bolt to vertical, then push fully forward and hold.  Press release button and allow it to slide back slowly so that firing pin spring is allowed to expand.  Snap sight back onto tube and replace the split pin.

3. On discharge, a sheet of flame up to 6 feet long comes from the rear end of the tube.  Great care must be taken that the flame and bits of wadding do not hit either the firer or anyone standing behind him.  The danger zone extends up to 30 feet.  There must be a clear space (IE: no earth, stones, or wall) for the flame at least 6 feet behind the tube.

4. If propellant charge fails, do not attempt to fiddle around with the weapon.  It must be laid aside carefully and exploded.  Delayed explosions may still occur.  Should the hollow charge detonator fail to explode, the grenade must on no account be touched but must be exploded by placing an explosive charge against it.

5. During practice firing with live ammunition, an area of 800 yards around firer and target must be closed off.  Firer must wear steel helmet.

Pistol Grenade (Wurfkorper Leuchtpistole)

Overall Length: 6.89 inches

Maximum Diameter: 3 inches

Delay: 4.5 seconds

Range: 80 yards

Color: Olive Green

Description: This grenade is fired from the 27mm Walther signal pistol.  It consists of the normal egg hand grenade attached to a plastic stem or body by a retaining tube.  The plastic stem contains the firing pin, delay igniter, detonator, and a base adapter for the propelling charge.  The end of the stem is closed before firing by a cardboard cap.

The retaining tube fits through the hollow stem and is threaded to it.  The retaining tube is also threaded to the grenade body and contains in its forward part the 4.5 second igniter.  In the base of the tube is a fuze consisting of a firing pin held away from the primer by a creep spring and safety pin.  An alloy flash tube connects the primer to the delay igniter.

Screwed into the base of the plastic stem is a base adapter containing a primer and propelling charge.

Operation: Before firing, the safety pin is pulled out and the grenade is then armed.  The stem is placed in a barrel reinforcing tube which is inserted previously inn the barrel of the pistol.  On impact, the firing pin overcomes the creep spring and impinges the primer thus igniting the delay igniter which will detonate the explosive after a delay of approximately 4.5 seconds.

Pistol Grenade H.E. Egg Type

Description: This grenade is fired from the latest type Walther 27mm signal pistol.  It is used without the addition of a rifled liner of reinforcing tube in the barrel, or the special sights used with the hollow charge grenade.  The folding putt on the pistol may be used by is not necessary; the pistol can be held in the hand for firing if the arm is slightly bent.

The difference from the old grenade 361 L.P. lies in the projector stem.  The stem on this grenade has a sliding fit in the smooth bore of the pistol.  It consists of a wooden cylinder with thin metal reinforcing sleeves at each end.  A grenade adapter is screwed to the forward end of the projector stem and contains a 4.5 second delay pellet.  

At the after end the stem is firmly held in a short metal cartridge which contains the percussion cap.  Inside this end of the stem are the propellant, the striker, and the initiating percussion cap.

For loading, the plastic cap is removed from the forward end of the stem and an egg grenade, complete with detonator, is screwed to the stem.  The complete grenade is loaded into the pistol from the muzzle end until a spring locking ring on the stem engages in a groove at the breach of the barrel.  The grenade is firmly held and cannot fall out.

Operation: There is no safety pin and the grenade is safe until fired.  When fired, the grenade and stem are propelled from the short cartridge case and at the same time the striker in the stem is driven forward to the percussion cap.  A flash travels through the hollow stem and ignites the delay pellet.  After 4.5 seconds the grenade detonates.

Next Time: German Mines and Grenades (Part 18)

Source: German Explosive Ordnance Vol. 1: Bombs, Rockets, Grenades, Mines, Fuzes & Igniters