Professional Documents
Culture Documents
FM5-31
DEPARTMENT
OF
THE
ARMY
FIELD
MANUAL
BOOBYTRAP
HEADQUARTERS,
No.5-31
wASEINGlON,
BOOBYTRAPS
cEAPTNN 1.
Ehtion
I.
II.
CmPTEB 2.
Section I.
II.
III.
CEAPmB 3.
Section I.
II.
III.
cEwTsn 4.
t3action
I.
II.
III.
CEAPTEB5.
Section I.
II.
CnAPrxa 6.
&x?tion I.
II.
~PBNDIX
I.
mis
1957,
CEUUCl-ERISTICS
OF
BOOBYTRAPS
Intmdu~on____-______________________________
Plincipleaof opslation__________________________
USE OF BOOBYTRAPS
Basic cloGhim__________________________________
Plan&g______________________________________
ImtdWion_______-____________________________
BOOBYTRAPPING EQUIPMENT
Fxngdevia?o________________-_________________
Demdition maw________________
____________
Midfm_______-_______________________________
CONSIRUCTION TECHNIQUE8
BoobytrBpping minea in milK&lde________________
Boobytrapping buildhgm_________________________
Turain_____________________-_________________MISC%LLANEOUS BOOBYTRAPS
standardboobytlnpe____________________________
I~~~Om_________________________________
ON AND REMOVAL
BOOB~DETECTI
emend____________________________..-_
pl-2
3-7
3
3
3-o
lo-14
15-17
9
9
14
m-26
27-30
31-36
19
35
45
37-30
40-44
45A379
51
61
49-50
51-62
37
92
63-63
119
123
127
.
.
w-72
Dmarmmgmethodn_____________________________
Beferencu____________________-________________
wnud
and c 2,25
lpowdes
FM 5-31,
Au9vrt 1959.
TAO0 67X4-B-&phnbsr
31 m
1954,
idmdi~
_____
c 1, 16 -
CHAPTER
CHARACTBRISTICS
Section I.
1.
OF BOOBYTRAPS
INTRODUCTION
Section II.
3.
PRINCIPLES
OF OPERATION
Types of Boobytraps
4.
Assembling Boobytraps
RaEABED
BTRIKERFIRES PERCUSSIDNCAP
PERCUSSION
CAP
SETS
CFF DETONATOR
(NOT
ALWAYS
USED)
PRODUCES
FLAME
6.
Initiating Adions
A.
PRESSURE
WEIGHT OF FOOT
STARTSEXFLOSIVE
AClION.
B.
MIA1 PRESSURE
FIRING DEVICE
PULL
LIFTINGTHE
SOUVENIRSTARTS
EXFLOSIVEACTION.
PULL
RRING DEVICEMl
C.
PRESSURE-RELEASE
MS PRESSURE
FIRING DEVIC
_i :
D.
WON-RELEASE
RAISING LOWEa SASH
$TAcTs
EKn0slvE
ACTION.
ELECTRIC
REMOVAL OF WEDGE
BETWEB CONTACTS
CLOSESCIRCUITAND
FIRESELECTRICCAP.
B.
MECnANICAL
RELEASB)STRIKER,DRIVEN
I? ITS SPRING, FIRES
PERCUSSIONCAP.
THROUGH ELECTRICCAP
WOODEN
c.
?uLGFRIcTIoN
?UlLfRlCTi6N FUZE,WEST
WW II GERMANY
D.
?KESSUIE-PRICTION
PUSSSURE
ON TO? OF THE
STRIKERFOKCSSITS
CONE-SHAIED
END INTO
THE PHOSPHORUSAND
GlASS MIXTUREIN THE
MATING SLEEVS, CAUSING
A FWH fHAT FIRESTHE
DETONATOR
MATING SLEEVE
PnosmoRus
COMOUND
MODS1 1952
FUNCE
E.
CHEMICAL
(1)
PRESSURE
PRESSURE ON THE TOP
BREAKS THE VIAL, FREEING
THE SULPHURIC ACID TO MIX
WITH THE FLASH POWDER,
PRODUCING A FLAME THAT
FIRES THE DETONATOR.
WW II GERMANY
SUCK CHEMICAL
FUZE
(2)
DELAY
CRUSHING THE AMPULE RELEASES
THE CHEMICAL 10 CORRODE
THE RETAINING WIRE, FREEING
THE STRIKER TO FIRE THE
DETONATOR. THE DELAY IS
Dl3ERMlNRD BY THE TIME
NERDRD FOR THE CHEMICAL
TO CORRODE THE RRTAINING
WIRE.
cHAPlER2
USE OF BOOBYTRAPS
!kdion I. BASK DOClRiNE
8.
Tadkol Frinciplos
II.
PUNNING
Tmcihl Ehds
a. The ingenious use of local resources and standard items is
important in making effective boobytraps. They must be simple
in construction, readily disguised, and deadly. They may produce
unezpected results if conceived in sly cunning and built in various
forms. Boobytraps cause uncertainty
and suspicion in the mind
of the enemy. They may surprise him, frustrate
his plans, and
inspire in his soldiers a fear of the unknown.
b. In withdrawal, boobytraps may be used in much the same way
as nuisance mines. Buildings and other forms of shelter, roads,
paths, diversions around obstacles, road blocks, bridges, fords,
and similar areas are suitable locations for concealing boobytraps.
c. In defense, boobytraps, placed in the path of the enemy at
strategic locations in sufficient numbers, may impede his progress,
prevent detailed reconnaissance, and delay disarming and removal
of mlneilelds.
9
aasic Principles
Certain basic principles, as old as warfare itself, must be followed
to get the optimum benefit from,boobytraps.
Knowledge of these
principles will aid the soldier, not only in placing boobytraps
expertly, but in detecting and avoiding those of the enemy.
11.
A.
APPEARANCES
CONCEALMENT
IS MANDATORY
TO SUCCESS.
LITTER AND OTHER
EVIDENCES
OF ROORYTRAPING
MUST BE REMOVED.
EALED
IN
ALL
ORVIOUS
PULLWIRE
R.
FIRING
AN OBVIOUS
FIRING
ASSEMBLY MAY DISTRACT
ATTENTION
FROM A CUNNINGLYHIDDEN ONE.
C.
LIKELY AREAS
DEFILES OR OTHER CONSTRICTED
AREAS ARE EXCELLENT LOCATIONS.
0.
OISTACLES
ROAD
IlOCKS,
FALLEN
TREES,
LITTER,
ETC.,
ARE IDEAL
LOCATIONS
DEVlCi
GATHERING
PLACES
E.
IN BUILDINGS,
AT BUllDlrjG
ENTRANCES,
AND
IN SIMILAR
PLACES
WHERE
SOLDIERS
MAY
MOVE
OR
.
GATHER,
DELAY
CHARGES
PAY OFF.
F.
APPEAL
TO CURIOSITY
BOOBYTRAPS
LAID
IN
BOLD
POSITIONS
TO DARE
THE CURIOUS
GET RESULTS.
G.
BLUFF
DUMMY
BOOBYTRAPS,
CONSISTENTLY
REPEATED,
MAY
ENCOURAGE
,CARElESSNESS.
AN OBVIOUS
BOOBYTRAP
MAY
MASK
ANOTHER
DEADLY
AND
PERHAPS
MORF
ONE.
II.
LURES
BOOBYTRAPS
MAY
BE BAITED.
THE
UNEXPECTED
DETONATION
OF A DELAY
ACTION
INCENDIARY
OR EXPLOSIVE
B~tiOBYTRAP
MAY
SCATTER
TROOPS
OR
DETOUR
THEM
INTO
A MORE
HEAVILY
LAID
AREA.
Location of Charges
a. Preparation. Small compact boobytraps are the most desireable for use in raids in enemy-held territory. Each member of a
team must carry his own supplies and be able to operate independently. Boobytraps should be assembled, except for the attachment
of the firing device, before entering enemy territory. This will
reduce the work at the site to the minimum.
b. Location. Charges should be placed where they will do the
most damage. A charge detonated against a stone wall will expend
its force in magnified intensity away from the wall. The force of an
explosion on the ground will affect the surrounding air more if the
charge is placed on a hard surface. This deflects the explosive
wave upward. A charge detonating 6 to 10 feet above the ground
will damage a larger area than one laid on or below the surface.
c. Characteristics.
Many inexpensive boobytraps, simple to make
and easy to lay, will delay and confuse the enemy more than a small
number of the expensive and complex kind. Complex mechanisms
12.
12
cost more, require more care in laying, and offer little more advantage than the simple type.
13.
Reconnaissance
Plan of Operation
13
Se&Ion III.
15.
lNSTAUANON
Respo~sMiies
l?J-
--..,,T--,l..-
thefieldsendsthereporttothecomman derthatdire&d
himtolayit.
(3) CompZetioa The report of completion is transmitted b7
the fastest possible means. It contains the numb& and
lype of boob7traps laid, location and extent of the field
or area and the time of completion. The report is forwarded to army level. when boobytraps are laid, either
alone or with mines, the report of intent and the report
of initiation of laying will include the estimated number
of boobytraps to be placed and the report of completion,
thenumberplaced.
b. &co&.
Boobytrap are recorded as nuisance mine fiekla on
the standard mine field record form. It is filled in as follows:
(1) The general locations are shown on the sketch, using the
appropriate symbol. Boobytrapped areas or buildings are lettered
-,A
being the nearest to the enemy.
(2) The number, types, locations, and methods of operation of
boobytraps are entered in the NOTES section of the form. If space
is lacking, additional sheets may be attached. If the boobytrap cannot be adequately de$crilbed in a few short sentences, a sketch of
minimuzz details will be included.
(3) The record is prepared simultaneously with the laying of
the boobytrap and forwarded through +annels to army level without delay. If a standard fo& is not available, the data required
must be entered and submitted on an expedient form.
(4) Nuisance mine fields containing both mines and boobytraps
aiX!recordedaSpIWWl bed in FM 20-32. Whim the specific locations
of hoob7traps and mauufactured devices cannot be accurately IX+
corded(scatteredlayinginopenareas)theirnumberandtypeare
entered in the notes section of the form and identified by grid coordinates.
c. MU&W. Boobytraps are marked. by special triangular signs
pninted red on both sides. On the side facing away from the danger
area, a 3-inch diameter white disc& centered in the triangle and
the word BOOBYTBAPS
ispaintedinw&iteacr&s;thetopin1inch letters. The STANAG or new sign is similar except for the linch white stripe below the inscription. Signs may be made of metal,
wood, plastic, or similar material. They are placed above ground,
rig&angled apex downwards, on wire fences, @e-es, or doors, windows, or other objects or by pushing the apex in the ground. These
working signs are Used by all troops to identify friendly boobytraps
during the period preceding withdrawal from m-area, or to warn
friendly forces of the preeence of act.iGeenemy boobytrapa
I7
18
CHAPTER 3
BOOBYTRAPPING EQUIPMENT
Section I. FIRING DEVICES
18.
Introduction
a. Characteristics.
Dimensions
CO*9
Metal
Color
OD
D
K
Intwnal
1
in
2%
in
Spring-driven
Sof*ty clip
and positive
sofcty pin
striker
Initiating
20 lb
Action
pressure or more
Accesrori*s
Safeties
Action
&pronged
pressure head
and
extension rod
Packaging
Five pnitr wilh rtondord
bases pocked in cordboord
carton. Thirty
cartons shipped in wooden box.
b. Functioning.
A pressure of 20 pounds or more on the pressure cap moves the
trigger pin downward until the striker spindle passes through the
keyhole slot. This releases the striker to fire the percussion cap.
PROTKTIV
TBAINING
BEFGRE ATTACWNG
19
BLASTING
CAP
KEYHOLE
SLOT
c. Inhlling.
(1) Remo-:e protective cap from base and crimp on a nonelectric blasting cap. Ctiq~r jaws ah024ldbe placed NO
farther than /r inch from open end of blasting cap.
(2) Assemble 3-pronged pressure head and extension rod and
screw in top gf pressure cap, if needed.
(3j Attach firing device assembly to standard base.
(4) Attach firing device assembly to charge.
NONELECTRIC
NOTE. If
bmfweon
d. Arming.
top
board
pms,.
if and
top
of
is
usd.
afiow
d.omn-
plon~s
W pnSSu_
COP.
SP=.
e. Disarming.
a. Characteristics.
21
case
color
M*tal
OD
9/16 in
1
3 S/16 in
Internal &ion
Mechoniccdwith
split-head rtrikr
n&mm
InitiatingAction
3 lo5 lb
pull on trip wire
b. Funetiming.
A pull of 3 to 5 lb. on trip wire withdraws tapered end of release
pin from split head of striker. This frees striker to fire the percussion cap.
STRIKER
PERCUSSION
CAP
SAFETV
?lN
SPLIT
STRIKER
HEAD
c. Installing.
(1) Remove protective cap.
(2) With crimpers, attach blasting cap to standard base.
Ctimper jaws should be placed no farther thun /r in.
from open end of blasting cap.
(3) Attach firing device assembly to charge.
LOCKING
POSITIVE
d. Arming.
(1) Anchor trip wire and fasten other end to pull ring.
(2) Remove locking safety pin first and positive safety pin
lust.
e. Disarming.
(1) Insert nail, length of wire, or original safety pin in PoSitive safety pin hole first.
(2) Insert a similar pin in iocki~g safety pin hole.
(3) Cut trip wire.
(4) Separate firing device and charge.
21.
M3
a.
Pull-Release
Firing
Device
Characteristics.
Dimensions
CO_
Metal
Color
OD
9116
satetin
locking
in
4 in
lnkrnol
Action
Mechanical
with spreading
striker head
1*l*.S*
Pockaaina
and
positive safety
pins
23
Initiating
Action
Direct pull of
6tolOIb
or r&or.
of tension
b. Functioning.
(1) Pull.
TIE-DOWN
\
LOCKING
SAFETY
PIN
IVE
Y PIN
c. Irrstalling.
(2)
CRIMPERS
d. Arming.
(1) With cord, remove small cotter pin from locking safety
pin and withdraw locking safety pin. If it does not pull
out easily, adjust winch winding.
(2) With cord, pull out positive safety pin. This should pull
out easily. If not, di sassemble and inspect.
FGSITIVE
SAFEtV
PtN
CL-
LOCKING
SAFETY PIN
SMALL collu
PIN
e. Lharming.
pirenriorr
car
c&r
Met01
OD
1
:ls
.!a
-li/l6
11/16
lnhmol Action
Mechonkol
with
hinged plot*
r.l.ou
Initiotiing Action
mmovof of
restraining
wt. 5 lb or -
Pockogbtg
s0fati.r
Safety pin ond
hd.
for Intercmptor pin
in
woodon box.
b. Functioning.
Ihiq
.or removing retaining weight releases striker to fire
the percussion cap.
SAFElY PIN
c. Installing.
(1) Insert a length of lo-gage wire in interceptor hole.
Bend slightly to prevent dropping out.
(2) Remove small cotter pin from safety pin.
(3) Holding release plate down, replace safety pin with length
of No. 18 wire. Bend wire slightly to prevent dropping
out.
(4) Remove protective cap from base and with crimpers,
attach blasting cap. Crimper jaws should be placed no
further than /s inch from open end of blasting cap.
(5) Secure firing device assembly in charge.
CRIMPERS
NONELECTRIC
PRESSURE BOARD
d. Arming.
(1) Place restraining weight on top of firing device.
(2) Remove thin wire from safety pin hole. If wire does not
come out easily, restraining weight is either insufficient
or improperly placed.
(31 Remove heavy wire from interceptor hole. It should move
freely. Note. Withdraw thin wire first and heavy wire
lust. Follow arming procedure carefully
27
e. Di8armitto.
b.
Functioning.
A strong pull on the pull ring draws the friction igniter
through the flash compound, causing a flame which ignites
the time fuse.
CAP
PROTECTOR
STANDARD
TH
28
c. znstacling.
PULL
RING
d. Amina.
(1) II&m& initiation. Remove safety pin.
(2) Trip wire initiation.
(a) Attach one end of trip wire to anchor stake and the
other to pull ring.
(b) Remove safety pin.
e. Disarming.
(1) Insert length of wire, nail, or original safety pin in safety
pin hole.
(2) Remove trip wire.
(3) Separate firing device from charge.
29
24. 8-W
Delay Dekmior
a. clrar&cteristies.
This device consists of a pull-tj, fuse lighter, S&secondlength
of fuse, and a blasting cap. The blasting cap is protected by a
transit cap, screwed on the base.
b. Fuiactioning.
A strong pull on the T-shaped handle draws the friction
igniter through the flash compound, causing a flame that
ignites the time fuse.
SAFEVYPIN AND RING
COMPOUND
c. Installilrg.
T-SHAPRD
HANDLE
,_J
_,
d. Amino.
(1) Manual initiation: Remove safety pin.
(2) Trip wire initiation.
(4 Attach one end of trip wire to anchor stake and the other
to pull ring.
(b; Remove safety pin.
e. Disarming.
(1) Insert length of wire, x+1, or safety pin in safety pin
hole.
(2) Remove trip wire.
(3) Separate firing device from charge.
color
Cop-r
and brass
Natural
Dimensions
1
Co,*
D
7/16
in
Metal
6th
Inlemol
in
Action
Mechanical
with
corrosive
chemical
Delay
4 min to 9 dos, identified
by color of safety strip
r*l*osa
Packaging
sakty
Colored
strip
inserted
in hole
above fwcussion
cap.
10 units-2
red, 3 white, 3 green,
1 yellow, and 1 blue-and
Q time delay
chart pocked in pofq
board carton,
10 cartons in fibor board box, and 5
box01 in wooden box.
tempwature
b. Functioning.
Squeezing copper half of case crushes ampule, releasing chemical to corrode restraining wire and release striker.
SAFETY
RESTRAINING
c. Installing.
(3)
(4)
(5)
d. Arming.
e. Disarming.
There is no safe way of disarming
this firing &vice. If disarming is necessary, insert an improvised safety pin through
inspection holes.
26.
Ml
Pr essure-Roleaw
Firing Device
a. Characteristics.
Dimensions
I
COU
Melal
Color I
OD
3 in
2 in
I
I
WI
12
in
Intawd Action
1 ti$m$41d
latch
.Saf*tior
Softly
pin
and hole for
intorwptw
pin
Rostroininp
3Ib
pressure
ormore
release
Issu.
0bsd.t..
many an
but
still
mailable
32
b. Functioning.
Lifting or removing restraining weight unlatches lever, releasing striker to fire percussion cap.
c. Instauing.
(1) Insert a length of heavy gage wire in interceptor hole.
Bend slightly to prevent dropping out.
(2) Holding down latch, remove safety pin and replace with
length of thin wire.
(3) Remove protective cap from base and with crimpers
attach nonelectric blasting cap. Crimper jaws should be
BLASTING
INTERCEPTOR WIRE
aJ
CAP
d. Arming.
HEAVY GAGE
WIRE
e. LGsarming.
(1) Proceed carefu@ a8 the slightest disturbance of restraining weight might unlutch lever and detonate the mine.
CHAPTER 4
won
37.
I.
Boobytmpping Mim
in MindaIds
Tactical Pwposo
Antitank mines laid in mine fields are boobytrapped (or activated) Primarily to make breaching and clearing as dangerous,
ditlicult,and time consuming as possible in order to confuse, demoralize, and delay the enemy. Most standard U.S. antitank mines and
many foreign antitank mines have auxiliary fuze wells for this
purpose. See FM2032 for more detailed information.
38. Motbeds
U.S. standard antitank mines are generally boobytrapped by
means of a pull or a pressure-release firing device, or both, if
desirable.
a. PuU. Dig hole to proper depth to bury mine on firm foundation with top of pressure plate even with or slightly above
ground level. Arm mine before boobytrapping.
(1) Instauinrr.
(a) Remove locking safety cotter pin and replace with length
of thin wire. Bend wire slightly to, prevent dropping out.
(b) Remove positive safety cotter pin and replace with length
of thin wire. Bend wire slightly to prevent dropping out.
(cl Remove protective cap from standard base and assemble
firing device, activator, and mine.
AUXILIARY
FUZE WELL
_ ._
---I
I
--__I
f
ANTITANK
MINE
CAP
(2) Aming.
(a) e~.c.r~o;
camouflage.
51
(3)
Disarming.
(a) Uncover mine carefully.
(b) Locate boobytrap assembly.
(c) Replace positive safety first, then locking safety.
(d) Cut trip wire.
(e) Turn arming dial of mine to safe and remove arming
PlW.
ARMING
SAFETY
__.
..--
MIS MTANK
y-l
* !
Id
,SASKET
~-PROTECTIVE CAP
.EASE
PRESSURE SASE
I HEAW
IWE~CEPTOFI
(2) Arming.
(a) Camouflage mine, leaving hole at side to remove safeties.
(b) Carefully remove thin safety wire first, then the interceptor wire.
(c) Complete camoufla~
(3)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Disarming.
a. Antitank iUines.
The Communist European and Asiatic armies boobytrap mines
in a much different fashion from that of the U.S. and other NATO
countries. The Germans in World War II used both special antilift
devices and antidisturbance fuzes, one of which has been copied by
the French.
66
BLOCK
56
Pl?ES$JRE BLOCK
MINE LID
STAKE
67
EZ. SM2 (EZ 44). This device consists of an explosive charge, 8 pressu~release firing me&an&m, a
safetybarandametalcase.Whenthesafetybaris
removed, the device arms itself by means of clockwork inside the case. This device cannot be disarmed.
1 ML 2. 43
1. Mi. 2
44
(b) France. The French have a copy of the T. Mi. 2 43 antidisturbance (pressure and pressure-release) fuse,
and Teller mine 43, named models 1952 and ,I943
respectively. The fuse is placed in the fuse well and
the pressure plate screwed down on top, shearing the
arming pin. Removing the pressure plate actuates the
pressure-release element, detonating the mine.
a9
MODEL
1940
ANTITANK
MINE
\
MODEL
1952
f..;DISTURRiNCE
b. Antipersonnel Mines.
40
See&n II.
BGOBYIRAIVING Mlll.OlNGS
surroundings
MIA1 PRESSURE
42.
i
I
Enhances
Curiosity prompts a soldier to investigate hurriedly an interesting building in his path. Women, loot, or mere inquisitiveness may
be the motive. His rush to be the first inside makes all entrances
excellent spots for boobytraps. For the foolish, a rigging connected
to the front door, side door, or back doors may be suihcient But for
the experienc& soldier, who may carefully seek entry to the b
ment first and then try to clear the building story by story, careful
and ingenious effort may be required.
a.. Base&& W&&xus. Here boobytraps must be concealed to
prevent detection by the enemys breaking the pane or kicking out a
door panel. Basement windows should be boobytrapped at the top
or in the floor underneath.
firins.
I$
HOLE FOR
PULL WIRE
M3
PULL-RELEA&
FIRM
DEVICE
TOP
BAYXET.
BATTERI
ES
HEAD
(k)
66
43.
strduml
FmmowoA
coNcRm
COLUMN
CONCRETEFLOOR
\
d. Loose floor boards sometimes are excellent objects for boobytrapping. The rigging must escape detection, however; otherwise,
it will be ineffective. This rigging might be harder to detect if the
support underneath is chiseled out to let the floorboard sink
about 1h inch when tramped on.
69
44.
Interior Fudkhings
BLOCK
1/4THlCK
c. Electric hm.
(1) Remove bottom plate.
(2) Insert bulk explosive and electric blasting cap.
(3) Attach shortened leg wires to power inlet.
72
EXPLOSIVE
d. Teakettle.
(1) Assemble sheet explosive, electric blasting cap and mercury element in teakettle.
(2) Check circuit with galvanometer first, then install batteries.
Note. Batteries may be bound tightly in circuit with friction
tape. For safety and ease of assembly, use a wrist watch delay
in circuit (para 60d).
MERCURY
ELEMENT
ELECTRIC
BLt%NG
t
BATTERIES
0
0
FRICTION
TAPE
8. Pressure Cooker.
SHEET
EXPLOSIVE
BATTERIES
BOUND
IN CONTACT
WITH TAPE
SHEET
EXPLOSIVE
74
BATTERIES
Q
l
CRIMPERS
SHEET
SHRAPNEL
(2)
. . Electric tigging.
(a) Assemble sheet explosive charge, electric blasting
cap, and mercury element.
W Check circuit with galvanometer.
(cl Place boobytrap on bed to initiate when its level
position is disturbed.
(d) Install batteries in circuit by wrapping tightly with
friction tape.
(4 Conceal boobytrap.
Note. For safety and ease of assembly, use a wrist watch delay
in circuit (para 60d).
SHEET
EXPLOSiVE
\
SHRAPNEL
I
I %,
ELECTRIC
BLASTING
76
CAP
@TAPE
NO 912
BATTERIES
EXPLGSIVE
kctlon
Ill.
TERRAIN
45.
46.
Locations
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
d
&-
SHAPED
CHARGE
PRIMING
OETONATING CORO
TAPED HERE
M3
PULL-RELEASE
FIRING DEVICE
47.
Special locations
MS PRESSURE-RELE
FIRING DEVICE
b. Motor. The fan belt is an excellent anchor for a pull wire. The
pull wire will be much harder to detect if anchored underneath the
b&tom pulley, from where it may be extended any length to the
firing device and charge.
ELECTRIC
BATTERIES _
CHAPTER
MISCEUANEOU~
BOOBYTRAPS
Tactical Use
Cartridge boxes, apparently filled with ammunition, containing high explosives and detonators.
Bandage packets containing detonators and shrapnel.
Bandage cases with Red Cross insignia rigged as mines.
Rubber balls, about twice the size of a fist that detonated
upon impact.
Silver-grey light metal boxes or flasks that exploded when
the
lit-l
wne
"-*_ ._.._" raiad
___.,--.
(6)
(7)
MAIN CHARGE
\PAGI~
CUT OUT TO RECEIVE
CHARGE AND FIRING DEVICES
ITION BLOCK
(5)
OR WIRED TO
TERMINALS
AFTER THE
DIAPHRAM
IS REMOVED
MAIN
90
COMPOUND
Section
51.
II.
IMPROVISATIONS
Ingendty
Training
(2) Moisten fine black powder to form a paste. Rub paste into
twisted string with fingers and allow to dry. If a powder
is not available, mix 26 parts potassium nitrate (saltpeter) in an equal amount of water and add 3 parts pulverized charcoal and 2 parts pulverized eulphur to form
a paste. Rub paste into twisted string and allow to dry.
(3) Check burning rate before using.
b. Slow burn&g fuse (t2inch+?8
per minute) .
d. Percussivn
(1)
(2)
Cap Assembly.
NONELECTRIC
BLASTING CAP
FRICTION TAPE
NONELECTRIC
BLASTING CAP
BLkK
POWDER
b. Clothes Pin.
(1) Wrap stripped ends of leg wires around clothes pin jaws
to make electrical contact.
clothes pin.
Insert wooden wedge, anchor clothes pin, and install trip
wire.
Check circuit with galvonometer first, then connect batteries.
teries.
Fasten down top of container and seal hole around stake
with friction tape.
leg wires.
Thread leg wires through hole in block.
Strip end of one leg wire and twist into loop, and secure
other ,leg wire in position.
Test circuit with galvonometer.
Assemble metal cylinder, contact bolt, pull cord, charge,
blasting cap, end blocks, and batteries.
95
CONTACT
fSTRlft=ED
LOOP
END)
BATTERIES
DEVICE
96
FIRING DEVICE
97
b. Electrical.
(1)
Lever am.
(a)
(b)
(c)
RUBBER STRIP
PLASTIC
SPONGE
(2)
Flexible side.
(a)
(b)
(c)
Q@o
\
UPPER
LOWER
GEMNO
BOARD
CONTACT
PLATES
(8)
BLASTING
CAP
WOE
SPACING
@LOCUS
BOTTON
PrawoaDat
BLOCK
CONTACT
BLOCK
(d)
(e)
(5)
Metal box.
57.
Tonsion-Release.
Firing
Device
100
SO.
PressumRoloase
a. Double Contact.
(1)
b. Clothes Pin.
(1)
(2)
m+===
STRIPPED
ENDS
CIRCUIT
WIRE
c. Bottom
Plunger.
d. Mousetrap.
(1) iUeeh.un&Xl
See para 44 b (2)
(2) Electrical
(a) Remove triggering devices from mousetrap.
(b) Assemble trap, contact plate, and circuit wires.
(c) Place weight on top with striker in armed position.
CONTA
?LATE
WEIGHT
102
&RI KER
SOFT
METAL
RELMSE
CONTACT PLATE
INSULATEO
PULL
WIRE
b. Doubb Detonator.
(1) Drill three holes-one in bottom, one in partition, and
one in side-to admit nonmetallic plunger and two electric
blasting caps.
(2) Assemble blasting cap, leg wires, contact plates, plunger
and pressure block.
first. Then connect bat(3) Check circuit with galvmmeter
teries with friction tape.
(4) Install.blasting cap connected to pressure firing device
in side of mine.
PREssuRk
FIRING
DEVICE
.II
LOWER
CWTACT
103
c. Sliding Contact.
PLUG
SLIDING
BOLT OR
PIECE OF METAL
0-R)
BATTERIES
ELECTRIC
60.
BLASTING
CAP
a. Cigarette
Timer.
Test burning rate of time fuze and cigarette. (A cigarette usually burns at the rate of 1 inch in 7 to 8 minutes.)
Cut sloping end on length of time fuze.
Assemble sloped end of time fuze, match head, and cigarette.
CIGARETTE
I
-
1
MATCH
TIME
FUSE
104
WIRES
FRICTION
TAPE
DRIED
LENTILS
MRTAL DISK
BEANS,
PEAS,
OR OTHER
SEEDS
SOFT METAL
To BAsit
y/
ALARM
STEM
WINDING
(2) Nonelectric.
Iti
d. W&t
Watch Timer.
106
61.
Bombs
a. Pipe Bombs.
(1) G3WW.&.
LENGTH OF PIPE
NONELECTRIC
BLABTING CAP
(2) Antidisturbance
bomb.
(3)
Shotgun
bomb.
(4 Close one end of pipe with hammer, allowing open. ing for detonating cord primer or electric blasting
cap.
MTONATING
CORD
PRIMER
RASllC
TUT OR
POWER
b. Nail Grenade.
Attach nails to top and sides of charge by means of tape or string.
Under certain conditions, nails may be required on only two sides,
or even on one side.
c. Delay Bomb.
(1) Chemical delay.
(a) Crimp nonelectric blasting cap on base of appropriate Ml delay firing device.
(b) Assemble firing device and charge in package.
(c) Crush copper end of firing device with fingers.
(d) Place package in suitcase or container.
Note. Use this bomb only when delay is necessary but accuracy
is secondary, as the delay time of any chemica1 firing device varies
considerably according to temperature.
109
NONELECTRIC
BLASTING CAP
CRIMPERS
(2)
A&m
(4
tb)
(cl
(d)
(4
clock delay.
Drill hole in wooden base of proper size to hold standard base firmly.
Remove standard safety pin from MS pressurerelease firing device and replace with easily-removed pin.
Crimp nonelectric blasting cap on standard base
and attach to firing device.
Assemble alarm clock and firing device on wooden
base.
Attach one end of string in eye in pull pin and the
other to the alarm yinding stem so that its turning
will winch the string and withdraw the pin.
Place assembly in suitcase or container.
CRIMPERS
ALARM
#oCK
110
MS PRESSURE-RELEASE
FIRING DEVICE
NONELECTRtC
BLASTING
CAP
ALARM WlNDlffi
SYSTEM
CHARGE
d. Enuelove Bomb.
(2) Strip insulation off ends of circuit wires and twist into
l/-inch
#
ELASTIC BAND
(STRETCH AROUND ASSEMBLY )
-LET
TYPE
ENVELDPE
CARDBOARD BASE
ID
ND. 912 BATTERIES
ELECTRIC BLASTING
CAP
SHEET EXPLOSIVE
c______-a
e. Hot Shrapnel
Bomb.
(2)
CRIMPERS
(2) Screw standard base with cap into Ml pull firing device.
(3) Assemble firing device, detonating cord, priming adapter,
(4)
(5)
112
EXPLOSIVE
BLOCK
MtNG
CAPS
DRUMS OF NAPALM
SPACED INTERMITTENTLY
62. M&cellonwuschorgos
a. Improvised Shaped Charge.
//
b. Improvised
Antipersonnel
7-ARGET
Mine.
and thick-
(3) Screw standard base with blasting cap into proper firing
device.
(4) Secure firing device in place.
(5) Fix pkimer in rear center of explosive and tape to firing
device.
(6) Arm firing device.
SEPARATOR
(CARDBOARD, COTTON WADDING, ETC. 1
EXPLOSIVE
SHRAPNEL
DETONATING CORD
PRIMER
EXPLOSIVE
c. Platter Charge.
NONELECTRIC PRIMER
,
CONTAINER
(METAL, PAPER,
BAMBCO. ETC.)
PLATTER (2-6
LB)
EXPLOSNE
d.
Improvised
Claymore.
RETAINER ( OTti,
SCREEN, WIRE.
TAPE, ETC.)
CHAPTER
BOOBYTRAP
DETECTION
Section I.
63.
6
AND
REMOVAL
CLEARING METHODS
Tochnicianr
Tools ad
Equipment
b. i%ne &tectws.
are issued: AN/PRS-3 (Polly Smith) and the transistorized, aural indication model, designed for metal detection,
and AN/PRS-4 for nonmetallic detection. Of the metal
detectors, the transistorized model is the lighter and
more powerful. All three models have the same deficiences. They may signal a small piece of scrap as well
as a metal-cased explosive or signal an air pocket in the
soil, P.root, or disturbed soil generally.
(2) Operating time should not exceed 20 minutes to avoid
operator fatigue. Tired operators often become careless
operators.
k. Empty all fire boxes, remove the ashes, check Are wood, and
move the coal pile.
2. Always work from the basement upward. Check, move, and
mark everything movable including valves, taps, levers, controls,
screeus, and the like. A clockwork delay may not be heard if it is
well hidden.
no. Double check basements and first floors-especially chimney
flues, elevator and ventilator shafts, and insulated dead-air spaces.
Check straight flues and shafts by observing from one end against
a light held at the other. Dog-leg flues may be checked by lowering a
brick from a safe distance.
R. Guard all buildings until they are occupied.
o. When possible and only after a thorough check, turn on all
utilities from outside the building.
Note. A soldier by training can develop his sense of danger. Also
by experience and careful continuous observation of his surroundings while in a combat area, he can delvelop an acute instinct that
warns him of danger-a most valuable asset toward self-protection.
Section II.
69.
a.
DISARMING
METHODS
Nouhullration
Dotailod Operations
a. De&u&on
in Place.
devices must be replaced. If complete neutralization seems doubtful, the charge should be pulled from place by a grapnel or rope
from a safe location. After the charge is pulled, the operator should
wait at least 30 seconds as a safeguard against & concealed delay
action fuze.
c. Hand Disarming. None but trained specialists should undertake this job, _unless the boobytraps characteristics and disarming
techniques are well known. Trained specialists only should inspect
and destroy all unusual or complicated mechanisms for safety reasons and for information on new enemy devices. The following procedures for hand neutralization are for guidance only, as the exact
sequence depends on the type of device and the manner of placement.
(1) Do not touch any part of a boobytrap before examining it
thoroughly. Locate all firing devices and their triggering mechanisms.
(2) When tracing wires, look for concealed intermediate devices
laid to impede searching. Do not disturb any wires during the examination of the boobytrap.
(3) Cut loose trip wires only after careful examination of all
connecting objects and their functions and replacing all safeties.
(4) Trace taut wires and disarm all connected firing devices by
replacing safeties. Taut wires should be cut only when the danger at
both ends has been eliminated.
(5) ) Replace safeties in all mechanisms, using nails, lengths of
of wire, cotter pins, and other objects.
(6) Never use force in disarming firing devices.
(7) Without disturbing the main charge, cut detonating cord or
other leads between the disarmed firing devices and the main
charge.
(8) Cut wires leading to an electric detonators
at a time.
(9) When using a probe, push it gently into the ground. Stop
when you touch any object. It may be a pressure cap or plate.
(10) Once separated, boobytrap components should be removed
to a safe storage or disposal area.
d. Special Precautions.
Explosive
Disposal
APPENDIX I
REFERENCES
1. Field Manuals
FM 5-25
FM 20-32
2. Technical Manuals
TM 5-280
TM ~1345400
TM 9-1375-200
127
official:
J. C. LAMBERT,
Major GeneruZ,United Slafcs Amy,
The Adjutani GenmZ.
HAROLD K. JOHNSON,
General,UnitedStatesArmy,
Chief of Stafl.
Dhtzibution:
A&e Army:
DCSPER (2)
ACSI (2)
DCSLOG (2)
DCSOPS (2)
ACSFOR (2)
CORC (2)
CRD (1)
COA (1)
CINFO (1)
TIG (1)
TJAG (1)
CNGB (2)
CotEwe (2)
USACDCEA (2)
USCONARC (5)
USACDC (2)
ARADCOM (2)
ARADCOM b
(1)
INDEX
Abandonedmateriel,
boobytrapping
ot:
Ammunition________________________________________
Lumber____________________________________________
Servicesbleite~____________________________________
Vehicl~________________________.___________________
Activator,
47b
82
47c
474
*-Cl
82
84
83
A/Tmine____________________________________
27f
41
Adapter,priming________________________________________
27r
40
Antilift devices:
Double detonator___________________________________
Moveablecontect___________________________________
Slidingcontact____________..________________________
59b
590
59c
103
163
104
38a
38b
51
53
Armor,body________________________________.____________
65a
119
28
42
mP
54c
46
93
46
Authority,boobytnrpping________________________________
Bangaloretorpedo_______________________________________
Blaeting cape:
Electric____________________________________________
Electric, improvised_________________________________
Nonelectric_________________________________________
Bombcharge___________________________________________
Bomhe, improvieed:
Antidi+urbance__________________,___________________
Delaybombe_______________________________________
Ervelope___________________________________________
Hotehrapnelbomb__________________________________
Pipegrenade_______________________________________
Ricepaddybomb______________________,,.____________
Tmcsnbomb_____________________.-________________
Buildings, boobytrapping:
Beameandcolumna___________
________ ______________
Doors______________________________________________
Dwellinge__________________________________________
Entrsncea__________________________________________
Floorboarda________________________________________
Load-beaiingwalb__________________________________
Windows___________________________________________
Potential___________________________________________
surroundinge_______________________________________
TAG0
S78!2-B
35
48
610(2)
61e(lX2)
61d
61s
107
107
111
112
107
112
113
610(l)
elf
W7
43c
42c
4lb
42
43d
43b
e,b
46
41a
67
65
61
62
63
63
62,63
61
61
P,
Ilc
61
~~~~~~~~______~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
mwehrte
_______________________________________~
z-m
___________________ z_________________
cbmmmoteum________ ________ ________________________
compoBtmta,boobytmp__
_____ ___________________________
chuhity__________ __________ ___________________________
a
demolition
(868Demolition chuga.)
62d
6zC
62~
6:
116
115
114
114
119
4
12
-FE
llf
3
D&&ion_ ____________ ________ __ _________________ ______
Dehy6ringdevicu:
Akrmcbclr______________,,_________________________ 6oc(l),(2)
6th
clguwttotimw____
_________________________________
6ob
Drbdwal_______________~__ _______________________
6od
WrirtWStOll_________ _ _________ ___ ____ __ ____ ________
Demolition cbargw:
AU&O1________~_~____~_~~~~~_~_____~~______~~~~~~~.
23
27h
i--ChnpoaitionB ~~~~~~~__~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~_~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 27b
Mi*
M2 ~~~~~~~~_~__~~_~~___~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--- 27c
27d
M3 and M6_________ ________ __________________ _____
27~
M5Al (com~tion c1)_____________________________
Ml12 ___~_____~~~_~~~~~~~~~~_~~~_~~~~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 27f
Ml18 ________________________________________-----m
2%
PETN _________~~___~~~~_~~~_~___~~~~_~_~~~~~~~~~~
27k
RDX_______ ____~~__~____~__~_~______~_~__~_~~~~~~~
7la
-DatNction in place__________________ ________________
27s
Data&or, unid
Ml0 ____ ____________________ ____ ____
DCitmlBtingco~
271(
1)
TlrpaI,II_____________________,-_______________ ____
271(2)
TypeIV________ __________ ___ _______ _____ __________
Detod
24
Sreconddehy ____________________________ ___ _______
23
lkacond delay _____________________________________
69
______~~~__~_~_________~___~~_~~~~~~~
mEtic~~~~~___________~___~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- 72
llb
Dirt&n
____ _____ _______ _________________________ ____
EUecb,boobytmpphg
_______ ________________________ ____
___________________________-_-_----Ekctricblutingupa
Emmy boobytmp8______________________________________
.
z
.
izm,
~~~__~~~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-~---Btudud:
3
105,106
104
104
106
37
36
35
35
36
36
36
36
37
37
124
41
37
38
30
29
123
126
10
10
27~
Qd
9
40
9
25
19
26
22
20
21
31
19
32
26
22
24
3Qb
60
56
59
TAG0
5733-B
Forwign mina,baobytmppad~tinlKd
8oviet
_____________
_______
_________
________________
394lXa)
ww II GenMny____________________________________ 3WlXc)
Furni&in&
interior, boobytmppad:
2
44w2)
445
_~__.~~~~~_~~__~____~~_~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~_______ 44a
Electric iron ------_~~_~~~~~~~~~_~.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~__
List finder, ~~~____________,.-___________________
w:
Pnrura~ker____________,__,_____________________
442
~O_____*______________*_______________*_________
44f
Teakettle ___________ _____________ ______ ____________
44ti
TelWbiOL ___________________ L_________ ____________
44f
FlmC
Safety M?OO________ _ _______________ ________________
27n
Time__,__________,__,,,,,,,_,__________________________
27m
59
57
75
77
71
70
70
72
70
74
75
73
75
38
37
05c
120
Eulddiwming
___________ __ ____ ___.____________________
Hand grenade (charge)___________________________________
fkDataob__ ______ ____ _____ _______________ ____ _________
~uplaivsrbell(c~)___._.______________.________
71c
2
34
125
45
121
47
3
51
6
7
3
107
6
6
16
ltk, d
15
14
14,15
14
35
10
12
Improvieedboobytrap___________________________________
~uity_________.__________._._..____________________
InitiatingactioM _____ ___________ ___________________ _____
Intros____,________________-________________
Laying boobytrap:
Methob___________.-_____________ __________________
TeUlU___________________________._________________
Rapomibility______________________________________
Ligbt.er,fuee, MBO_________________ _____________________
Loathms, boobytrap.______ __________________ ___________
Lura,boobytmp___________ _________ ____________________
Manufactured boobytrapa ____________________ ________ ____
NeW&&iO&_________________________________________
Nomle&icbla&ix~ap
270
llc-e
llh
3950
fxils
17c
36
33
3
121
17
49
40
9d, %
69, 71c
27q
9, 119,
123, 125
40
46c
54d
Ha-j
81
119
13
58c
58b
58a
58d
102
101
101
102
bon&_____________________________
SPMPr==
woodenp1unger____________________________________
Probul,mprhg&wooden_________________________________
____________________________---_______--RecoMce
Rseord~______________________________________________
____________________________________________---~~:
canpletion______________________________________--Initiation__________________________________________
ht.4DtiO~____
________________________-----
_________-
Revoc8tionofz4uthority_________________________-________
safety Nla ________________________________-_______--aearchin3teclmiquer:
Indoor______________________________________ _____-Outdoor_____________________________-__---- _____--shapedctAarges:
M2A3______________________________________ _______
M3 ____________________________________________---se,
trcrined_____________________________________&mdard boobytrapa:
BAiSh_____________________________________________
ItSliUl_________________________________________--_-
55b
&id
55c
!55e
55w)
56b(l)
Q4
86
Q5
96
98
5w3)
56b(4)
05d
:
100
QQ
89
la0
13
17b
Qc
13
17
Q
170(3)
1742)
17cr(l)
Qa, b
17
15
15
9
70
124
08
67
122
121
29
30
83
43
44
119
5iE
88
QQ
5ofE
89
JW== ______________________________--______----- W4)
87
!xka
__~_~___~________________~~~____~~~~~~
sovist_______
_.
ww II Germany____________________________________
sob, d(l)_ 87,%QQ
(31, w(3)
121
__________________________~~_______~~~~~~~
w
T-9 =h
110
64
TeCrm,ChrUMX?_____________________________________--_57
100
Tendon-nlsluafiringdevice,improvised___________________
79
Te!rrae!rra&ls~~o~__________________________________
2,;
____________________________------Q2,Q3
9
3s
_~_~_~_____~~_____~_~~~~~__~~~~~~~~~~_~~~~~~------ no
Q2
ELirIg__.___ _____~~______________~~~~~~___~~~~~~~~--- !52
3
3
Typea ofboobytrapo___________________________________-Uaenof booboo______________________________________
_~~~______~_________~~________~~~__~__~~~~~~
witikdmw8l
140
13