76. Antitank Clay Mine

a. Description. The antitank clay mine (fig. 89) consits of a baked-clay case, 8 1/2 in-ches in diameter and 10 inches high, which resembles an urn. On opposite sides of the cases are two round bulges which house pull fuze 42 (par. 42). The detonators in the fuzes are connected by detonating cord, through detonating-cord cavities, to booster charges in the bottom of the case. A clay pressure lid covers the top of the case. On opposite sides of the pressure lid are two notches which clear the striker shaft of the fuzes but not the wings of the striker-retaining pins.

b. Employment. This mine is used in areas being abandoned to opposing forces, since its clay construction prevents detection by electrical detectors.

c. Functioning. Pressure on the clay pressure lid shears the lip of the pressure lid, drops the lid, and pushes out the striker-retaining pins of the pull fuzes 42, releasing the spring-loaded striker against the percussion cap and firing the mine.

Figure 89. Antitank clay mine.

d. Installing and Arming.

(1)

Remove the clay pressure lid.

(2)

Thread detonating cord through the detonating-cord cavities and connect each of the two lengths of detonating cord to a booster charge in the bottom of the clay case by inserting the cord in a hole punched in the side of the booster charge.

(3)

Connect the other end of each length of detonating cord to the detonator of the pull fuze 42.

(4)

Insert the main charge in the clay case.

(5)

Install the two pull fuzes 42 so the wings of the striker-retaining pins are horizontal and below the striker shafts.

(6)

Replace the pressure lid so the notches line up with the fuzes, and place the mine in a hole so the pressure lid is level with the ground surface. Keep a distance of 9 feet between mines to reduce the possibilty of sympathetic detonation.

e. Neutralizing.

(1)

Check for and neutralize any activating fuzes.

(2)

Uncover the mine and lift off the pressure lid.

(3)

Examine the striker-retaining pins to see that they extend all the way through the striker shafts.

(4)

Cut the detonating cords near the fuzes, and remove the fuzes.