The Release firing device is a standard firing devi-ce which can be threaded to all of the standard anti-personnel mines, hand grenades, and to the bangalore torpedo.

GENERAL:

The release firing device M5 is a mechanical device designed for firing explosive charges by means of the removal of a restraining load from the device. A restraining load of least 5 pounds is required. When the load is removed, a spring loaded striker swings over to detonate the percussion cap.

DESCRIPTION:

The principal parts are a rectangular metal body and release plate, a striker and spring, a safety pin, and a standard nipple base. The release plate, when held down by the safety pin or by a weight, prevents the striker from swinging over to detonate the percussion cap.

INSTALLATION:

Insert nail in interceptor holes, remove celluloid protector from base, and crimp on a non-electric cap. Install device in explosive charge and place restraining load of at least 5 pounds on the release plate. Remove safety pin by pulling attached cord. If no clicking sound is heard, pull out nail from interceptor hole. For more complete details, refer page 209.

OPERATION:

When the device is set with a weight on top and safety pin removed, it is in an arm-ed condition. If the restraining weight is removed, the release plate is forced by the striker as it swings over to detonate the percussion cap.

REMARKS:

This device can be used to detonate anti-tank mines when an attempt is made to remove them, or it can be used effectively as a booby trap by placing the device under some heavy object, such as a book, chair, ect.