Trip-Wire Flare Mk 1 Mod 0

Length of tube, inches

Diameter of tube, inches

Weight, pounds

Burning time, seconds

Candlepower

Effective illumination

Area 500 feet in diameter

Use: The purpose of the flare is to reveal the approach of enemy troops.

Description: The flare case is a steel tube approximately 5.5 inhces long and 2.5 in-ches in diameter. Fixed to one end is a pull-type, spring-actuated firing mechanism to which the trip wie is attached. Enclosed in the tube are the primer, black-powder char-ge, impregnated muslin disc, and pyrotechnic composition. Two 40-foot lengths of wire are available, making it possible to have two trip wires running in opposite directions. A web belt secures the flare to a tree.

Operation: A tug of three pounds or more on the trip wire draws the plunger and fi-ring pin away from the primer and compresses a spring which surrounds the firing pin. As the plunger is pulled away from the firing that of the firing by the compressed firing-pin spring. The primer ignites 0.3 grams of black powder. The black powder ignites the im-pregnated muslin disc, and in turn the pyrotechnic composition. The resultant gas pres-sure blows out the closure disc from the head, and the flame from the burning candle il-luminates the surrounding area. White smoke given off by the flare does not interfere with the effectiveness of illumination.

Remarks: To prevent self illumination, the flare should be mounted about 125 yards before friendly position. While mounting the flare, personnel should wear steel helmets, and heads should be kept below and away from the top of the flare.

Figure 206. Trip-Wire Flare Mk 1 Mod 0