21. Snap Fuze 43 (Waterproof) (Knickzünder 43 (Wasserdicht); Kn.Z. 43)

a. Description. The snap fuze 43 (waterproof) (fig. 24) is an instantaneous, mechanical type similar to the snap fuze 43/I (par. 18) in operation. It is  approximately 39 inches long. The fuze case contains a spring-loaded striker and a striker shaft provided with a slotted end to receive a shear strip. The shear strip is provided with a shear groove and is held within the slot in the striker shaft by a pin. Near the top of the shear strip is a large hole through which the safety pin is inserted. Above the safety-pin hole is a smaller hole where the hooked end of the pull rod is inserted. The extension rod is composed of six segments of tubing held at each joint by metal rings and collars. The pull rod is held to the top of the extension rod by a threaded pin. The entire fuze is completely covered by a water-proof material.

b. Employment. This fuze is used in anti-tank mines buried in the ground or under snow. It may also be used with waterproof mines as an antiboat obstacle.

c. Functioning. Pressure exerted against the extension rod bends the rod at one of the joints, causing the pull rod to pull up on the shear strip and the striker assembly. This compresses the striker spring between the retaining washer and striker collar exerting a severe strain on the shear strip until the strip snape at the shear point, releasing the spring-loaded striker. The released striker sets off the percussion cap and the detonator.

d. Installing and Arming.

(1)

Carefully stake the mine down so that it will not tilt when pressure is applied to the extension rod.

(2)

Screw a percussion-cap-and-detonator assembly (Zündersprengkapsel 44) into the base of the fuze.

(3)

Screw the fuze into the mine.

(4)

Remove the safety-pin-retaining wire and the safety pin. The rubber tube around the safety pin should remain in the fuze case.

e. Neutralizing.

(1)

Insert a nail or wire into the safety-pin hole and fasten it securely in place.

(2)

Unscrew the fuze from the mine.

(3)

Unscrew the persussion-cap-and-detonator assembly from the fuze.

Figure 24. Snap fuze 43 (waterproof).