DESCRIPTION. The basic principles of this igniter are similar to those of the Kippzünder 43. The striker, striker guide, pressure piece, striker spring, pressure spring, retaining balls, and tilt rod base are all the same as the Ki.Z. 43 igniter. This igniter, has, however, an entirely different safety device. A safety nut is screwed down tightly against a four-piece collar that is retained in place by a spring clip. This nut and collar, which are about the base of the tilt rod, restrain the movement of the tilt rod, making it less sensitive. (See fig. 281.)

A safety bolt is housed on the side of the igniter and fits under one side of the tilt rod base preventing its movement. The safety bolt runs through a safety bolt housing stam-ped at the ends "SICHER" (safe) and "SCHARF"  (armed). There is a curved indentation in the safety bolt which allows free movement of the tilt rod base when this indentation is positioned directly under the rod. Movement of the safety bolt is controlled by a spring loaded ball fitting into one of three recesses. At either end of the safety bolt are metal pieces connected to lengths of chain.

The igniter is normally carried with the safety bolt, held in position by the spring loaded ball being in the middle recess. Both metal end pieces will then be in the safety bolt housing.

After positioning the igniter in the mine, a pull on the wire "SCHARF" will move the safety bolt unit the spring loaded ball drops into the recess at that end. The curved indentation will then be directly under the tilt rod base and the igniter armed. The metal piece will pull away from the "SCHARF" end of the safety bolt. The safety nut and collar may be removed or left in position as required.

OPERATION. Pressure on the tilt rod lowers the pressure piece, releases the retaining balls and frees the striker to impinge upon the percussion cap.

EMPLOYMENT. This igniter is designed for use with antitank mines. The igniter is screw-ed into the booby trap well on the under side of the mine, the mine being laid upside down.

Figure 281 – New Type Tilt Igniter (Pressure Tilt Type)