A./T. Mine G.S. Mks V and VC (Service)

Diameter

Height

Total weight

Explosive weight

Explosive

Material

Color

Fuze

Pressure required

Description: The Mine G.S. Mk V has three main components: the loaded mine body, the fuze, and the spider. Attached to the mine body are four metal clips with bayonet joints, which engage the pins on the spider.

The mine body is cylindrical in shape and contains a central well for the insertion of the fuze. During normal shipping and storage this well is closed at the top by a pressure cap. A rubber washer, in which rests the pressure cap, is located on the top of the mine around the fuze well.

The A./T. Contact Mine Fuze No. 3 Mk I operates on the shear-pin principle, and con-sists merely of a spring-loaded striker retained by a shear wire. Below the striker is loca-ted a percussion cap and detonator, which is inserted into a booster of two C.E. pellets. All components – striker mechanism, cap and detonator, and booster – are contained in the fuze body.

Pressure on the spider is transmitted to the pressure cap, which forces the striker through the shear wire. The striker is then forced by its spring into the detonator, firing the mine.

Use: This mine is used as a defense against armored cars, tanks, and other vehicles. The mine will immobilize tanks and vehicles.

Assembly and Arming: After the mine has been placed in the ground, remove the spider and pressure cap. Inspect the mine fuze to make certain that the shear wire is in place, and then insert the fuze. Extract the safety pin from the fuze, and replace the pressure cap so that it rests on the rubber washer. Replace the spider, making certain that the pins engage the slots in the clips.

Neutralization: To neutralize this mine, remove the spider and pressure cap and in-sert a safety pin in the safety-pin hole in the striker head. Remove the fuze from the well. Replace the pressure cap and spider and remove the mine from its hole.

Remark: The G.S. Mk VC is identified with the Mine G.S. Mk IV, and is handled in ex-actly the same way. However, the Mk VC contains only 4½ lbs. of TNT or Baratol, giving it a total weight of only 8 lb.

If the mine is to be re-used, inspect the shear pin to see that it has not bean cur or partially cut. Straighten the clips and maker certain that the spider can be fitted over the pressure cap without a strain.