ii

WAR DEPARTMENT FIELD MANUAL

.G 0 R P S 0 F E NO I NE E R S
:,
(.
MINES
RESTRICTED MAUER .
RE
STRICTED d.,umenls .nd 'he
tained In res rac . 1 ay be
The information f restricted materia' m
I
I:'::'" ,'.1 characteristics 0 b'n 'he service of the
essen I knnto
el
d
given to any person o:ons of undoubted loyalty a; t
[;" United States and 10 pe .' in 'Government work. U
discretion who are Ji the public or to the
r will not be ndlca miUtary public relations agencies.
r:"" t by authonte.. . 5 28 Sep 1942.' .
!:J ' .. 1.,i' ____ ....:.t.
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WAR DEPARTMENT -1 NOVEMBER 1943
):-
,
W.AR DEPARTMENT FIELD'/MANUAL
PM 5-;31.
This munlfaJ chaPIN 3, chapter 4, section, IV of chapter B, chapter 11, and
appendix of. PM 5-30, 3(! lIme 1943; TM 5.'..32-5, April 1943, including Change;
1';10.1, 30Jllly J943 ;(1nd ,appendix of Training CircuMr No. 62, War Deparlmem. 19f3:
LAND MINES
AND
i
BOOBY TRAPS
, ..
J
i
W. A R D EPA RT M E NT NOVEMBER 1943
RESTRICTED PISSEMINATION OF RESTRICTED MATTER The
information contained in relitcicted and the essential character-
istics of material may 'be given to any person known to be in
.the service of the United States and to persons of undoubted -loyalty and
discretion who are cooperating. in Government but will not be
communicated to 'the public or [0 the press authorized military
public agencies. (See also par. 18b,' AR 3;80-5. 28 Sep 1942,.)
,
fll1iied Siaies GOfernmenl Pruiting '.O/fife
Washington.' 1943

WAR DEPARTMENT,
WASHINGTON 25, D. F, I November 1943.
FM 5-31, Engineer Field Manual, Land Mines and Booby
'Traps, is published for the information and 'guidance of. all 'con-
c e ~ n e q , . I
[h . G. 300.7 (26 Aug 43).]
By ORDER OF TH'E SECRETARY OF WAR:
. ,I
G. C. MARSHALL,
. Chief GIStaff.,
OFFICIAL:
\
J. A. ULIO,
, Major General,
, The cAdjutant General.
/
cDISTRIBUTION:
R & H (6); Bn 1,2,4.6, 8, 10-19, 44. 5S (2), 3, 7, 9 (4), el,
3,4,6,8, 10-16, 19,44, 55 (2). 2 5, 7, 9. 17, 18 (4),
(For e"planation' of symbols see FM 21-6.)
\
I
, ,
, ,", '.,:, ' ,,' , " I. . ,/-, ,'--
This mariual contains 'in loose-leaf form the latest information on
characteristics' of mines and fuzes and on the tactics and techniques
of their usq, Monthly supplements will keep the manual to date, '
the manual, the supplements will be loose-ieaf"decimai-indexed, '
and' dated, so that, obsolete pages can be removed easily and the
pages inserted in their proper places. The manual is organizef\
as, follow. :
a. Chapters 1 to 4 inclusive, deal with United States mine
tactics, technique, and doctrine. The pages in Ihese chapters are'
, numhered as follows:
1
-c-,--- ___ number
number
32.06
T
Paragraph number in the section
" - - ",,' ,
The number shown in example is paragrarh 6, section
ter 3. Tlje illustration, in 'chapters 1 to 4, inclusive, are numbered
in the same way. For example, figure 41.02bis the second illustra-
tion in Paragraph 2 of section I of chapter 1 ..
'(1. Chapters '5' to '13, . inclusive, discuss min,e individual,
mines, fuzes, 'and booby traps of allied and enemy nations. Pages'
are numbered as follows: ' \
I----,Ohapter nu",ber"::one chapter for each
, in aiphabetical order. , ','
c,
.. ", e,c"tiO,n" numb,er-o, ' n"e.sec,ti,onf,or,
antitank mines, 2 for antipersonnel mines, 3
" for fuzes, 4 for improvised types, 5 for booby
, traps. , , , '
I Ttem number. ' , . '
82.03-b, , ,', " . ,
L..J>age nU'1'ber within the item. '
The example shown would be on page 2 of the discussion of the
third in the series of German antipersonnel mines. '
c. The illustrations in charters 5 ,to 13, inciu,ive, are not
numbered.
CONTENTS'
CHAPTER 1. GENERAL 1 1:01-11.05
'. I
CHAPTER 2. AMERICAN MINEPOLIY
L ..
CHAPTER 3. AMERICAN MINE.FIELD LAYING
Sec'tio'll I. Hasty mine field 31.01-31.06
II. Deliberate mine field 32.01_32.1.2
III. A n t i t a n ~ mine supply 33;01-33.05
IV. Dummy' mine fields 34.01 \
,
CHAPTER 4. MINE.FIELD BREACHING AND CLEARANCE
Section I. General 41.01':41.03
II. N,[ineNfield' reconnaissance 42.01-42.04
III. Mine-field breaching and marking
43.01-43:1:,
IV. Road and tracK clearance 44.01-44.15
V. Deliberate clearing of i n ~ n e field
45.01-45.07
CHAPTER 5. AMERICAN MINES AND FI/ZES
Se'ctio'n
I.
An titank, 'mines 5-1
II. -Antipersonnel mines .12
III. Fuzes 53
.IV. Itnproyised types
':>4-
,\ V. Booby traps 55
CHAPTER 6 BRITISH MINE TACTICS, MINES, AND
FUZES .
Section I. Mine tactics
II. Antitankrriines
In. Antipersonnel niines
IV. Fuzes
V. Improvised types
VI. Booby traps
i
,
60
61
62
63
64
65
I \"
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(:HAPTER . 7. FRENCH MINE TACTICS, MINES,AND
. FUZES' .
Se(tion 1. Mine' tactics
. II. Antitank inines
.III. Antipersonnel mides
'IV. -Fuzes .
V. .Improvised types
. VI. Booby traps
70
71
n
73
, 74
75
CHAPTER 8. GERMAN MINE TACTICS, MINES, AND '
FUZES
Sectio,) I. Mine, tactics
80
II. Antitank mines 81
Ill. Antipersonnel mines 82
IV. Fuzes 83
V. Improvised types .84-
vI: Booby traps 85
. CHAPTER 9. HUNGARIAII/MINE TACTICS, MINES, ,
AND BOOBY TRAPS
Sec'tion I. Mine tactics' J . " -90.
II. Antitank.lnines 91
III. Antipersonnel mines 9,2
. IV. Fuzes .93
,V: Improvised types 94 "
,
. /
VI., Booby'traps 95, '
' . CHAPTER 10. ITALIAN MINE POLlCY,MINES, AND FUZES
(
Section' I. . Mine policy '. 100
II. '/ Antitank mines 101
III. 'Antipersonnel mines I 02
IV. Fuzes 103
V, Improvised types/ 104'
, VI. Booby traps 105
. "
CHAPTER II. ' JAPANESEM.INEPOLlCY, MINES, A ~ I )
FUZES
: Section
. 1.
Mine polley / .
110
II. Antitank mines III
III. . Antipersonnel. mines 112
IV.
.Fuzes
. '..
113
V. Improvised. types 114
VI. Booby traps 115
I
. Paragraph{

CHAPTER, .12. MINE TACTICS, MINES, AND
FUZES
'." i
Section L Mine policy 120
II.
Antitank' mines 121 . I'
III. Antipersonnel' mines 122
IV. Fuzes i23
V Improvised types 124
VI. Booby traps
125 .
CHAPTER 13. MISCELLANEOUS MINES AND FUZES
, Section
L,
Antitank mines 131 (
II. Antipets6nnel miI)cs 132'
III. Fuz"es 133
IV. Improvised types
134 i
V .. Booby traps 135.
I. ELECTRICAL MINE, DETECTORS
I
A,PPENDIX II. NOTES ON HOUSe BOOBY TRAPS FoR
ARMS OTHER THAN' ENGINEERS .
APPENDIX III. MINE WARFARE TRAINING
'. L'
I'
,','
i' '
I
CHAPTER 1
GENERAL
SECTION
\
11.01. SCOPE ! This manual covers the employment, types, and
of land mines' and booby traps of various ..
It in'dudes methods to locate, disarm', 'defuze, and these
" obstacles.
11 .02. LAND MINES
a.' A land mine is an encased charge of fitted with
detonati'ng .... devide or devices des-igned to be actuated by vehicles or
pe;'sorlnel
" There two common types . .
(lVAntitank mines designed to immobilize track or wheeledve-
hides, and normally employed in mine fields. Andiank mines vary
greatly In the amount of explosive they contain. The normal charge"
i5'6to 12 pounds. Usually they.are not dangerous to personnel pass-
.' .
ing over them, since heavy pressure -is necessary to detonate thein.
The impact'of a"rumiing maD may set off an antitank mine. '
(2) Ahtipersonnel mines are used primarily to produce caslJaltiesto
Rersonnel on foot. They may" be placed for specific tactical purposes,
such as protection of mine fields' -aT" other pbstacles, or to give '
local security; or they may be. placed as nuisance mines to harass an4
. delay. They arc not effe,ctive against armored Explosive,
charges usually vary from Y4 to 4 pounds.
c:. Inlproviscd land mines fr'lqucntly are used when iss'le mines
arc either unsuitable or unavailable for a partic\ular antitank or anti-
pers6nnel mission. They ;may-contain,'arty of the' standard explosives"
and' may be set off by either standard or improvised fuzes., Impro-
mines are particitla,rJy darigerous to re'move, and
ing to
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 '11.01-11.02
d. Types infrequently used for railway and bridgell\inir!i' are,
large and complex minesj containing a p'eavy' eh;lrge: Their
use is restricted by tpnsportation, and supply problems, and tile'
time 'ne"cessa;ry their installation. .' ,- -, ' -
e.' dlllllniy mines are 'used in place of rea'}
'. They may corlsist of any scrap material available. They are laid iii"
'false mine fields, and: m''Ybe used to supplement the realmines in a
real mine field. Their ll\ain puryose is to delay the enemy by causing
hi,m to 'use, time to and remove \-
f. Prattice mines are used for training purposes. Theyeontairi '
:rio explosive: charge, Qut are similar ip. construction, to inipes.
,'They may be equippe\i to produce a puff of smoke when run over
, by a vehicle. '
, ,
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11.03. DEVICES
a.FuzeThe term "ful," as usee! III thismallualcovers
igniters, switches, alld firing devices, andappUe,s to the
device which flame or c:oncusslon to set off th",
charge. Fuzes operate 'by applYing or releasing of pressure, by pun '
,ana trip mechanism,by the release of a tension wire, or,by a delay-
,action mechanism. Definitions of fuze ry-pes _
(1) PERCUSSION FUZE A percussion fuze is in which the
percussion cap is set off by a blow from a spring or pressure-ac!uated
striker. >. ' i'. ,
, ' ,
, (2) FRICTION FUZE A friction fuze is one .composed of ,sub.
stances which are set aflame byappJiec;! friction.' "
(3) CHEMICAL FUZE A chemical fuze is oriewhich utillzes the
cbemiCal reaction between selected substances to produce a high.
intensity.fJame or a'dosed circuit.' , __ -/ ' \
(4) TIME FUZE ANP DELAY'ACTION FUZE The time
and delay-action fuze are mechanicalIy or chenlicalIy, contrbIJed
detonating devices whicl1,{unclion at a specified time interval afier
. "actuation. The controlliIlg timing element in the ruze differentiates
! j't from other fuzes. - " ,
b. Trip.cord or wir. A trip cord or win;;s a low cord or
wire attached to the mairi or -fuze .of it mine or other.
cxplosiv(chargc .for the purpose of aCF,tiating the fuze .
c. detonation Sympathetic detonation is de-
, : tonation by an 'explosion of another charge
11.04. MINE EMPLQYMENT AND MINEFIELD
TERMINOLOGY
. a. Fuzing a, mine is the' process of inserting
the detonator and fuze assemblies. The mine is safe to handle but
'no't transport or store;
b
r
Defuling Defuzing is the rcve.rseof. fuzing. The
1,.02 ... ,1;03-','.04. 1 NOV 1943 FM, '-31
,
.
,
, a mine Arming, a mine is removing all' safety
Idcvices so the mine is ready to' function,
'c' d. Disarming a mine _.Disanning a mine 'is replacing' pins)
clips, other safety dt::yices sCI the mine, cannot be exploded acci-
dently hy, vehicles' or peirsonnel. A 'disarmed mine is not necessarily
for, transport and \. ' .
. e.Mine belt A mine belt is a strip of ground which con-
tains mines laid' to a standar<:i pattern.
Mine section' A mine section' is one of the ar:eas into
which a mine belt is divided to facilitate laying and' recording
and to' allow for changes in direction. '
, .
'",.Mine density Mine density is the number of mines per
yard _of front. The' norm,al mine of mine belts .-is' 1 Yz mines
pet\yard of front; .. .
. . h. Mine.belt pattern Mine-belt pattern is the arrangenient
of.'mines in a belt. The arrangcmcnkmay, incJude antitank,
antipersonnel, and booby-trapped antitank mines. r'
(1) UNIFORMPA TTERN BELT Uniform-pattern belts employ
uniform spacing of mines throughout the fieicl.
(2) .EXTENDED-PATTERNBELT The mines are laid in con.
siderable depth, and the rows of min.es nearest the enemy are spaced
\' mote widely. Extended-pattern belts are those norm,ally employed.
(3) HASTY"MINE BELT A hasty mine belt is one in which the
mines are laid in a sballow regular pattern and are located by
pacing., .. '
(4) DELIBERATE MINE BELT This is one in which the niines
are laid in greater depth than in a hasty mine belt and are located
--by accurate 'Either the unifbrm or extended pattern
belts may be used. .
I
1. Mine field A mine field includes the entire extent of a
-area. It may one or more belts, and may contain
tered mines located between and in front of mine belts.
(1) HASTY MINE FIELD This of one or more hasty
. mine belts. '
, .
(2) DELIBERATE MINE FIELD This consists of one or more
deliberate mine belts., .
(3) p,ROTECTIVEM,INE FIELD A protective mine isone
. wh;ich provides local sFcurity for a defense area.
TACTICAL MINE FIELD A tactical minefield is one placed
to up and canalize the enemy's attack formations aI\d to hold
him in areas covered by intense defensive fires, particularly those 'Of
antit"J,rik .and automatic weapo.ns.' .
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
, '.
(5) NUISANCE MINE FIELD Anuisance niine field is oneplaced
to delay enemy approach to a position. Usually such field's are sited
along roadsides, and iii areas, arid
ouac locations. Normally they employ a high percentage of antiper;
sonnd mines. .
(.6) DUMMY MINE FIELD '. A dummy mine field is'an area hav-
ing the appearance ob real ;nine field. .' .
,. Suspe.:t'area A suspect ar,ea is pne thought to contain
:a:nines, '
k. Mine raad block A mine road block is used to covel' a
narrow front where a deei pattern Cannot be employed.' Its normal
density.'is three mines per yard of front. ' , . .o,
I. Cle,oring Clearing a mine field is removing all miries
from it.
, ,
111. Mlne.fleld lane A mine-field lane is a passage cleared
of mines amI marked so vehicles and personnel maY travel s#ely
through the mine field. , I
, "n.Breaching 'Breaching a mine field is clearing one
lanes through iti.
:, 'a. Boobyltrapped mine A mine isone h;W-'
ing a device which will cause detonation when the mineis ,moved. '
The device,may be attached eitherto the mine itsell or t6 a second
mine or auxiliary charge laid underneath.
11 .05. B,OOn' 1'RAPS. ' . . "
", a. A booby trap is it device so arrang"d in connection with an
explosive charge that any disturbap.ce of the deyice detonates:the
charge.' ,". ' , " ,
b. They' used persotme!. Their principal mission
is to delay, demoralize, and cause casualties. Booby traps may be
installed ,in conjunction with raids on positions, along -'routes of
advance, or with alltitank mines to prevent their remova!'
C. They may be' encountered under a:q.y hut
usually are found in mine fields, in abandoned buildings and vehides,
or attached toarticJes of equipment. Ingenuity of installationlargdy
determines their effectiveness. Occasionally a second trap Is placed
-riear the first one' to .prevent i.ts removal., ", ' .
d. Booby traps are operated by any of the following methods:
(1) Direct on a concealed mechanIsm.
'. .' " . I
(2) Lifting some apparently harmless object oil! a concealed mecb-
-anism:. .' ,
(3) Moving some concealed object, such as a thin trip
nected to a concealed mechanism.
i :
11.04-11.05
I .
1 NOV 194,3
. 5-31
>, '.:
As'bOQby reiyfor thdr succ.es's pn surprise, the charge
and the operating mechanism always will be either concca}ed or
"made to S01)1e common, harmless object. Wires generally
are employed in booby-trap installations, and usually are the primary
evidence of booby-trapping. The d,tection of booby traps r6quircs
'knowledgc'!lJ enemy booby-trap equipment, it"I)ornial employment,
and how to disarm it. ThoroJ.l!5h, trainirl.g is to
ability in visual and manual investigation. All personnel must be
trained to- .
(1 extreme caution wherever booby traps

may be en-
,
, (2) ,watch closely for unnatural objects or conditions. ,
. f. Disarming booby traps always is dangerous, but casualties'
can be avoilied if the proper precautions are taken. NormalJyone
person examines and disarms a booby trap, while the others remain
,at,adistance . , . \.
(1) A locality to be investigated is divided into oones. Traps are
. cleared systematically from each zone before proceeding to the next.
When a trap is found, the method of disarming is determined before
the, trap is disturbed in any way. No attempt is made to disarm it
,c until its method of is .understood.
(2)/Most of the standard booby traps are fitted with ,one or !!lorc
safety clevices, usually a pin. First the hole from which the pin has
been wIthdrawn is located. Then a nail or piece of wire is inserted
, this hpl';. Normally this the mechanism safe.
(3) Tlje entire, length of trip wires and lead wires is carefully ex-
to make certain there is no trap at the opposite end which
might explode if the wire were cut. This examination also includes
"a for pressure operated devices. It\must be ascertained that
the' 'Yire is-' not an electdc lead wire. prevents completing a
firing' CIrcuit by cutling a cloubie electric lead wire with 'pliers, -or
closing an electric relay by brealdng a circuit. Finally, the wires arc.
cut.
(4) Oelayed:;ju,tion, traps usually are difficult to locate because they
have no external firipg agency ;md well be concealed. They are
safe until the. time set for their explosion; On discovery, of delayed-
aetion traps the fuze: mechanism must be located and disarmed.
,
(5) Each booby trap must l>c viewed )ith caution and respect.
I ts disarming and retnoval must be considered a new problem in
which nothing is iaken for grantee!. ' !
1 NOV 1943
\
11.05
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1 NOV FM 5-31
CHAPTER 2
AMERICAN MINE POLICY
21.01. EMPLOYMENT. . ,
. o. The mine field provides an antitank obstacle which ca;l be
established rapfdly and :which, properly sited and concealed, also
may have considerable surprise value. It can be removed' readil/ (.
:whim no longer required. .
b. IIi the defense, mine fields supplement the antitilOk;gun
. screen; whjch is of. first im:portancc. in antimechanized :defense.
c.Mine:field frontage' is reduced to the minimum by making
the maximum use of natural obstacles and by restricting mine fields
to terrain ""hich cannot be covered effectively by defense fire power
alone. . ..
d . . ,To prevenf enemy removal andpenetralion, both protective
.. and tact.ical mine fields must have maximum coverage bysmall-arms
and antitank-gunfire. . .
. e. Nuisance mine frelds usually are not covered by fire. They
must be well concea1ed to. be effective, normally are laid at wide
spicing, and should contain a higIi percentage ,of antipersonnel
mines.
f. Qoneealiog the mine fields and placing antlpersoimel and
booby, trapped mines in ,it make it'more difficult for the enemy' to
breach. ,
iii . The extent of a mine is limited by the
time, personnel, .and supply and transport of );nines am:! marking
materials. .
21.02. TACTICAL SJTING OF, MINE FIELDS
. a . The selection of a site for mine' field is of vital importance:
Once laid, ' the mine field fixes the location of supporting weapons
and determines to a future operations.
I b .. Al( arms, in siting, laying, and defending mine fields, must
,
I!U &_'1'
, NOV 1943 21.01-21;02
,
understand clearly the basic principles of mine field siting. Those
principles are:
(1) Coordination must be obtained between the organization selecl-
ing the sites and lhose responsible guarding and protecting them.
The mine field must be laid on terrain which can be coyered
tiv,ely by protective small-arms and antitank,gun fire.
(2) value of a mine neld is increased by laying it on
terrain which the enemy obsell\'e- or has pifficulty,jn;' qb:-
se;Ving. ", I
(3) Mine-field depth is important. Mine fields disposed in depth
::-; and properly protected restrict enemy reconnaissaric'e' infonnation
to the most fql',yard belts of the field, leaving the rear belts; as sur- "
prise obstades to check any quick enemy thrust.
I -', l '_-', , i
c:. The main tactical mine field is sited in the forward defenses
50 the maximum, defensive' fire is developed as the enemy' attack
reaches the mine field, with 'tile object of separating the attacking
infantry from its supporting tanks. To accomplish this.it may: be'
necessary tb 'locate certain' defensive positions in fIont of, the' main'
tactical mine fields" Such forward defensive normaJly lYillbe
covered by protective mine fields.
d. Hthemain antitank 'obstacle is regarded merely as pro-
for. the' forward defenses, the enemy' is. free to
to it and its eff,ectiveness is lessened. .
The forward defens,; normaJly are protected bymine belts'
laid at fairly wide spacing and' containing a high percentage of
booby-trapped and antipersonnel mines.
f. The r01;gher and inore, uneven the. and the more
dense' the vegetation in which mines are laid, the more difficult it is
to detect them. Mines laid in scrub growth which preserves, little or
no evidence of tracks are difficult 10 discover and lift. Mine fields
i laid in ',crop areas, such ll.S corn an,d wheat, are difficult to' clear,
since 'in _ suth areas' the electrical mine be swung
efficiently.' " " ' .
'g. An ideal mine-field site is illustrated in figure 21.02. This
location insure&,-tfle surprise effeCt the enemy. It offers
good weapon sites irom, which tei fire upon him while he is delayed
by the mine field. '
, "
i \
'21.03. COI\ITROL AND COORDINATION OF MINE FIELDS
a. Tactical n.thle fields are controlled by division or corps.
headquarters, which establish a'mine:field policy at th,; earliest
sible" The clivisionor corgs commander ,orders the laying of
mine fields and prescribes the plan defining their general alignment:
I
21.Q2':'21.03 '1 NOV 1943
I,
I
,
\
/'
\,
cooperation on the ground between all arms ,in
sitirtg; laying, a,nd ,protecting mine 'fields is of great importance.
Siting mine in detail-from a map alone is dangerous procedlJ,'re-
and mlist be avoided., The ground must be reconnoitered by, those
charged with mine-field siting, and I
. ; ,
, ,c. Alj mine fields must be clearly marked, accuratety recorded,
and promptly reported.

,I I
21.04; FORWARD MINE FIELDS IN DEFENDED LOCALITIES
" A plan for the battalion in a forward defensive position pro-
tected by mine fields is show,! in figure 21.04. Such an inst,illation
provides defense in depth. The subsidiary tactical'mine fielqs, run-
ning from front to rear,guard against rapid lateral exploitation if
;the ehemy', attacks and ,breaks through. The' or
comb'!. nature of the mine-field installations tends to lead enemy
pockets surrounded 'by mine fields. Thus the.enemy is
delayed and can be destroyed by heavy concentrations of artillery
and mortar fire, followed by' properly equipped counterattack
'launched concealed lanes in the mine fields or 'dummy
. mine belts. -
21.05. RESPONSIBILITY FOR MINE FIELDS
. ,a.:The reconnaissance and detailed layout on the ground of
.{ mine are the r.esponsibility of the division engineer,
in close cooperation with the antitank officer and artillery and in-
fantry commanders., '
-" " .. -," I
, " i b., 'Engineers and other' specially 'trained troops, are respon-
'Sible for laying, m'arking, recording, and :a:eporting mine
fields. They may require assistance from other units, Unit com-
'manders are responsible for strengthening their local defenses with
protective mine fields. These fields must be marked, recorded,' and
" reported immediately.
,t:. f\ll' cOIubat units which are' to lay protective, mine fields
must be, trained in hasty mine-field laying and must be able 'to lay,
mark, and record mine fieldshy the pacing method. Protective mine
fields laid' by local units must be properly sited and coordinated
with the fire of. antitank weapons. The unit commander isrespon-
sible Jar informing the division commander at_once of "ny pro-
tet;tive 'mine ,field laid by his sirice it may l;Je to re-
laying in order.to;-
(1) Prevent laying mine fields on terrain over which a counter'
attack is to be launched.
..
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:'
Depth of forward


*-a.d and rea..
defense Qre<r$
Depth of """'.

"-
. y._'Jl.-..-.Whftllnefiold
---

'=v- .
lisIeninsI and
.8 fIshting post
. _ >M- a.iunch.y .... .-neReId.
unf-.f
ENEMY
o 100 200 300 )0 soD 600 700
SCALE Of TARDS
FigUY6 21.04., Battalion 'proteded by mine -field.

"iRr"
i '\
KegUl,ate supply of mineSto insure that all mbe belts are ,laid
in accorda"ce with the, mine-field plan of division and corps head-
I
, 21.1)6.' DEFENSE OF MINE FIELDS
a:. All e,xcept nuisance mine fields must be covered by
,arms to fulfill their mission. Mine fields not
covered by fire usually do not delay the enemy sufficiently 'to war-
. rant the labor an<\ materials on them. .
b. Defense posts are sited in the mine field itself; and when-
ever possible in front of it, to prevent enemy patrols from discover-', ;
iug tqe loc'at,ion of its forward edges, ,-determining'the direction -an'cl
extent of. .mine belts, and lifting portions of the field. These posts
'serve as' listening and deferise pc;>sitions. At "ight, light machine guns
should, be set up at them, to give fiked b,,:nd. of protective fire.
When the distance between defense posts is s?, thaJ machine
guns cannot 'cover the mine field, intermediate positions must, be
seleCted and prepared' for to give complete coverage.
Thbe I?ositions mU1t be patrolled at night. , "/'
When 'it is' difficult to ,insure effective fire coverage for a
, mi;,e field, it" is important to increase the, percentage of antiperson-
'neI.and booby-trapped mines and visual warning devices. These im-
pede the enemy's efforts to breach the mine field, and give warning
of his effortqo lift the mines:
21007. LANES AND PATHS THROUGH MINE FIELDS
/ . - .' .
a. L"nes and paths through mine fields must be 'provided \0
permit of vehicles personnel.- .
b. In forwa,rd mine fields die paths are used principally by
patrols, These 'paths must be concealed from enemy direct ground
observation, 'and strict track discipline must enforced., Clearly
defined paths show in aerial phot6graphs, and must 'be avoided. .
\ ' .,
Where possible, paths are sited along stream beels,rock outdrops,
or hedgei. Patrol paths are changed periodically to mislead the
enemy and to prcvent well,<\eflned tracks. '
. c:. Paths for may be marked through forward
mine fields by cords or luminous buttons. Markers must be placed
carefully to prevent the enemy from detectIng the 'lane.
d. The heavy traffic on lanes through rearward mine fields
-' ,usually hiding the, lanes,. T'hc maIn obJective is to conceal
the fact thut the lane goes through a mine field. This is done by
keeping the straight, without curve's or 'deviations
FM 5-31 1 NOV ,1943 21_05-21.06-21.07
. . .
\yhich would" indicate som'e obstacle, and by, avoi<;iing\ a: network of
converging at t,he entrance to the lane.. .,
e. Lanes are the weakest places in both forward' arid ..
fIelds. Preparations must be made to block them quickly and .so
effectively that they become. harder for the enemy to breach . than
th.e other portions of the field. Sufficient mines and wire toelose
hines quickly must be stored near the lane, ready for ,instant _use.
The defense plan for tiJe lane must be clearly defined and under'
stood by the unit respohsible for lane Advance arrange.'
.' ments are made for additional covering fire to 'local
fire power available in the vicinity of lanes. .
.21.08. MINI! FIELD SAFEGUARDS
a . . Freq4ently units will be required to operate in sectors which
rave been mined and booby trapped by friendly troops. It is
perative that a standard method of marking mine fields be used and
that units. mark mine fields as they are laid. In addition, advancing'
. troops must mark all enemy mine fields and booby traps which have
been discovered and not'remove.d in oxder to warn friehdly troops
following behind .. For the latter, coordination between division and
. corps engineers is required to 'fix definHe responsibilities for this
work. .
b. The standard minefield marker adopted by allied aimiesis.
a red triangles4spended at the apex from a fence at 25.yard inter
vak Figure21.08a illustrates the marking of friendly mine; fields.
With the exception that isolated, inconspicuous markers such as'
, piles of cans, etc., ptay he-1tsed to warn frie-ndly patrols, the
side of the forward mine fields nearesttheenemy is unmarked (fig.
21.08b). The rear boundary of the forWard minefield will be.
\
fe1Jce
' 1 NOV 1943
,
FM 5003 1
. I
I
(
'11<1:0/1, .
. ,,11>, ..
EMPTY CANS. PILES OF s!rONES
. OR OTHER OBSCURE
MARKERS FOR FORWARD ,.",..
... --; EDQE OF MIN,",
,/ ,
_",4, I
'2 FT. STRAND LOW WIRE FENCE
)
Figure 21.08b. /e'n'ceJ.
1 NOV 1943
!
"
'DANGER
MINES
DANGER " RED
TARMAC
CLEAR OF ,MINE!;"
FOR NEXT 11) MILES \
DANG,ER
MINES BOTH
SIDES OF ROADS
TARMAC, & SHOULDERS
CLEAR OF MINES '
FOR NEXT 5 MIL,ES
DANGER "}'
BOOBY TRAPS " RED
,,,+-,,, -'
1 ,,'
figure 21.08c. $tandard, types ,of mine danger
--
41N.
L
..
I
I- 21M., -to!
I
tiN .
I ,
Figure 21.0,8q,. Individual mine marker ..
, ,
,',
, I
, I
I,
.1
, ,
.........
\- \
tri,m1Iul,;r sighs hung onto
existing 'fence-s or-- tactical obstacles 'as the double apron fence and
dr/on single strand barbed wire' "fence erected for this
'" 'purpose.", '
,c:. All mine fields tb the rear of the forward mine field will be
, ' , '
completely inclosed by a two-strand barbed-wire cattle fence, 5 feet
high, with red triangular signs suspended at 25-yard intervals. These
fencesrhust be sturdy to 'prevent cat.tle from wandering I Into the
mine field .. and to minimize accidents tOI'friendly troops.
'd. Hi! obvious direciion of fences should not parallel
the mine fields. Care must be exercised to.follow lines which blend
:fnto,the terrain. Fences should be concealed from enemy direct ob-
servation. Cross fences may be erected to the eneIllY. '
t. Figure 21.08c shows other authorized sigl1s. These signs are"
used to supplement the red triangular marker. They.are particularly
\1se(ul, the\advance where conditiot").s do not permit the fencing
in of mined areas by troops discoverin!5 them) The indivic!ual mihe
marker (fig. 21.08d)is used to indicate' the exact location of a mihe.
,Forinformalion concernin!5 the mar\<ing 01 lanes through mine
'fjelds, see paragraph 43.09. '
, ,WITH a wjthdrawal flI lanes are
closed and all mme,field-markmg fences and marke'l removed.
21.10. MINEFIELD RECORD AN'D REIlORTS
". All mine fiel.ds are rrcorded by the unit laying them and
. are reported when laId. " ""
(1) TOPOGRAPHIC MJ\RKER This is a lmain leature that is
easily identilied' and appears 'on a topographic map. It is used as
a - point in -recording the location of; each inirie belt in a
,
, field. Its coordinates, with a complete to the 'map upon
which it ,is shown, must be placed on the master rhine-field ,ketch.
(2) AUXILIARY MARKER This is a marker used as a reference
, ,point if ,the topographkmarker is over 200 yards fromthe corner
, of the mine field. The topographic and the auxiliary market
must "he on 'the same-- side of the mine belt. Markers such as rock
, piles buried cans which will not be destroyed easily will be 'used
'as auidliary markers. It is placed where it cim be lQcated lrom the
topographic '\Iarker by azimuth and pacing without danger of en-
tering the mine field as a result of normal, errQrs - in distance or
direction. The" auxiliary marker should not be closer to' the mine
FM 5-31 I NOV 1943
belt thim 75 yards nor' farther' than yards, The 200 yard dis-
tanceshou,ld be used where the topographic feature is as much as
300 yards away, or is not defined definitely, From this auxiliary
marker a torner or rear boundary stake is located accurat'e1y by'tape
measurement and azimuth. I
,: i " "
(3) MINE-BELT SECTION A mine-belt section may be either a
standard section (hasty, fig. 31.02) (deliberate, fig. 32,02a) i or a
turning section (hasty, fig. 3L05a) (deliberate, fig, 32,02c),
(a) Standard ,section A standard section is rectangular and' c,On'
t'ains mines laid ina regular pattern. . ,
(b) Turnings,eetion The turning section is an irregulady shaped
section between two standard, sections at the point wherea'.minebek,
changes'direction, It'employs the same mine spacing as, the adjacent
standard section. ' , ' ' ,
" b. There, are two types of iriine:field records:,
(l)OPERATIONALMINil:FIELD RECORD (fig. 21.10) which
, reports ,the type, location, and boundaries of a mine field sp it can
be plotted acc\lrately in gree!, color on the tactical map covering the ,
area in which the field is! laid. The locations of individual mines are
not shown on this ,record (seeF;M21-30)" '
\ - ( -,' ;
(2) DETAILEDMINEFIELD RECORDS (figs, 31.05c and 32.09)
These se,rve primarily to the later clearing of the mine
field. Detailed record of the hasty mine fieW includes accurate loca-
tion of the base Jines of the' belts and an indication of the pattern
used, Detailed record ofth
r
deliberate mine field includes theaccu
c
. rate Ilocations of all the boundary lines of the sections and section
sketches the exact location of all antipersonnel,
and mines., \ i " , '
c:. Operational recprds must be submitted without{
delay by' the unit laying the field.
'd. All. units laying mine fields normally prepare delaile(i mine:
field records. unit laying the field the original record
and transmits it 'to the di,vision engineer section at divisioIJ. head': "
quarters, or' to the corpls engineer section if corps \lnits ,are involved.
When the ,division engineer receives it he the 6riginal"
record and sends an operational report of the field to the tlivision "
G-2'"and In' addition, he sends ,the 'corps engirl.eer
two c,?pies 'of bpt4 the operationall and' detailed records, II \
the mine fields be laid by troops under corps control the corps ,engi-
rieer receives"the originaI"record. He reproduces it and sends 'an
I '. ' _ \
operatIOnal report of the field to the corps G-2 ,and G-3 sectl.ons.
e. The briginal detailed mine-field record is valuable in case
the field has to 'be cleared later if additional lanes 'are required,
/
I
2
3
4
5
LOCATION OF HASTY MINE FIELD
ORGANIZATION
DATE
, .
REFERENCE MAP
NUMBER OF __
SKETCH
f
/
j{
\
\
A
NOTE, MAGNEtiC AZIMUTH
USEO THROUGHOU\,
AI.L OISTAN,CES '.
GIvEN IN YARDS ./
51')0'0'1 dace CI,f ibase tine, givinQ length and magnetic cz'lmuth of each
straight liM Clnd number of mine's in section ; '" .
,
of
Offfcer ______ ......, ___ -'-
Rank and
Organization __ _____ _
Place __
Figure 21-:10. Dperalion41 'mine-field sketch.
,
z
o
",
;;
..
...
-i
..
'l.
r-
4YDS
.j
. . .
.
.... -
T'"
6 YDS.
r
f+,4 YDS.+j
-e .,
ENEMY 6 YDS.
I

.... ....
...----- ...,
\
ROW
IV
- ROW
.... ....
III
'" '"
l

. , .. -
ROW
en
1 YD.
'( /
r-- 2YDS,
r-
2YDS
.
. ,.:.
6 YDS.

"

'.L.
/'
. .. ,., ....
ROW
Figu,re
/
/
, ,
I
\
Each section of a hasty mine belt normally is laid by a platoon: The
'organization of the working parties is as follows-:
'," .
,
Officers
Noncommis'sioned
Officers Men
Officer. hi. charge ....... ', .. ',
,Siting party ... , ........ ,' ....
Layir,tg ,party ,; ...... :> .. " .
-Burying party .............. .
Marking patty _ ........ ', ..
Recordin$' 'pjarty ..........
1
1 '
1
1
1
2
12
18
4
2

,Total .. , .. " ......... '., .. , I 5 38
: ". '>', \' , .'
31.05. PRO'CEDURE FOR LAYING HASTY MINE BELT
, Personnel
Siting' party:
1 honcom-
tnissioned
officer
2 men
.
Equipment'
Map, lensatic com-
pass. I
,"
Tracing, tape, len-
satic compass. \

Duties
Designates location of base line.
Designates topographical references
, _ aqd locations of auxiliary marb
ers.
"lengths and azimuths o all
reference lines. -
Collects aIr safety, forks and safety
pins and has ,the:qt buried
right rear corner 'stake _ of each
sectioD'.
Establishes safeguards:
CollectS .an.d inspects all ,
records,-
Turns in records, and reports com-
pletion of task to hig-hel'
comm.ander, '
'I
As indicated' by officer in charge)
locates and marks with tape:
Rear line.
Right bo_undary line.
boundary line is, laid only' if
-next adjacent section angles to
rear., (fig. ' 31.05a). Boundary
, tapes are at right ,angles to their
: base' line'/ and are 18 yards long
Figu" 31.05a. Change' of direction, 'hasty mine beU.
,FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 31.C14-31.05
.,personnel
Laying party:
. 1
missioned
officer
12 men
31.05
Equipment,
Mines' and min-e
covers as re- ,
quired for the
section ..
Duties
(1J Laying first-' part af
(36. mines).
With assistance ,_of ',burying
party, mines. froIll
cealed ve'hicles to stoc:k
'in rear of' section._ 'Places 36
mines" alternately single 'and'
double along, -tape _at '
I-yard intervals paced by
comrnissioned'offic.er'in charge.
Libes up on base line with:
otie man' at each prut ot mines'
and noncommissioried_, .
at right corn-er s'ectjon ,(fig;<'
31.05h). On Blg.al of non, .
" commissioned e.a.ch '.
man picks up _ two _' mines;
moveS rorward 6 yards (pact;:d .
by noncommi!lsioned' officer), "
halts, and. pJa. Ces, .mine ..
I On signal;- moves forward, 6
yards farther, halts; and ev,en-;
numbered men- placel.their re-
mai
Il
ing ..-tnine"1i2 yard to-their
left.\.. ,','
On Signal" moves forward '6
y_ards' "halts, and
men place their,'
maining mine 112" yard' to their
left. ..... ....... .\ .
Returns to base Une along
boundary tape.or-,through ,un-
laid_,portioti, of se'ction.
(2) Laying, second and succeeding
parts o!.s6ction (3.6 mines each).
Brings .up mines for,:, next
part or section _and _ place,S
:- them alternalely sin'gle.- and ,
. double a,1oq'g, base line ,so first ,"
mine is 2' yards to ,left -of last
mine "on ,base Hne in_ finished
part of. section.: '
, dampletes second and 'slie'-
ceeding using' sarile
cedure as In first part.' '" ,
(.3) La:Yinc_, turning 'sections.
When change, of direction' '
is. to frant, mines: are laid until'
left. boundary tape is reached.
", Wheri\ change of' dircction
is to 'rear, _rnincs :are laid.in
rows' extending between left
bouhdary-.. tape> BD -0' coth .. -
pleted,'section and'right boun ..
dary tape Be (fig. 31.05.) of
next section, with _ four paces
between mines in rows 4 and
3
f
two paces between mines in
row 2./
FM.5-31
. LEGEND
o -INITIAL POSITION OF MINI:
.. POSITION OF MIN!"
.
--.:.-::
-
f
1- 24 YDS.

I:NEMY
I
--j
4YDS,
!T
I I
I
""
1- ,I
1 1- 'lYD. I 1 4YDS"i
_I 1-11"- 4 ,

I
1
0
1
>

6 YD'
c
Z
j
i
I 1 I J I
I
. I
I I I I
I I I I I I
I I I I 1 I
""
- - - - - __ . ;0 1
I I I I I 2 YDS. I
I I I
.,
I
,
I I I
0 0 0 o. 0
() ()
"
n
I I I I I I - I , _ I _ !- ) I
0008008000000
I
\. 1t
Y
BASE-lINI: TAPI: LAYING PARTY
NCO
(PACER)
Figure 31.05b. Laying hasty mine belt.
IV ODD_NUMBI:RI:D
MatnACI:-ONI:-
MINI: YARD
TO THEIR LI:FT.
III I:VI:N.NUMBI:RED
MEN PLACI: ONE
MINE \'1 YARD_
TO THEIR Ll:fT.
II ALL MI:N PLACE
ONE MINI: AT
THI:IR FEET,
1 MEN liNE-UP ON
BASE LINE AND
PICK_UP DOUBLE
MINES
\
\'
,
REPORT LOCATION OF HASTY MINE ,FIELD
I ORGANIZATION ____
2 DATE
3 REFERENCI! MAP
4 NUMBER OF MINES ::::::=
5 SKETCH
NOTE, MAGNETIC AZIMuTH
USED THROUGHOUT
ALL DISTANCES
GIVEN IN- YAROS
, Show tr,ace of base linej giVIng [enoth aM magnetic of eoch
straight line section and number of mines in Tie in initial and 1in,01
stakes and chonoe of di'rectlon stake, of every 1,500-3,000 feet by at leost
one tie liM and preferably two. Drow Insert sketch of standard hosty pottern,
t , "
Signafut'e, 'of
OHicer ______ ___ _
Rank and
Orgonitotion ________ !_' __
Place ' ____________ -'-
Figure 31.05c,. Report 0/ locatipn> hasly, mine field (consisting of one belt).
/
Burri ng pa,riy -: "
1 nonconl"
mi'ssioned
officer
18 men
(9
details)
Marking
1 noncom ..
missioned
'officer

Recording party:,
1 nonCom-
missioned
officer (in*
stru'ment
mati and
recorder)
2 men
" (pacers)
FM 5-31
, '
9 picks" 9 shovels,
sal'1dbags for
spoil (pick and
shovel per
man detail);'
Sledges, stakes;
wire-marking
sighs, side-
cutting pliers'.
Corripass, sketching
pad,
Hdpslaying party carry'mines frofi1
vehicles to' base line. (
Buries, arms,_ and conc.eals individ-;
ual mines ,of each row,' starting at
right .. boundary tape an,d working
along' roWs. Twoman details are
,assigned as follows: .
First row--3' details. '-',
Second f'ow':..-3 details.
Third and fourth rows--3
..,tails.
As each section H completed; non-
commissioned officer Thrrts" over
all forks' JO 'officer ,-in'
charse, who djrects burying be-
,side stake marking right rear
co'rner' of section base line. '
Carrits stakes, wire, and statidard '
marking sigrts from vehicles.
Erc;tts ma'rking fence with as
directed by officer in charge.
Makes large-scale 'sketch_ (see sug-
gested. form in fig. 31 .05c) o(
mine pattern
j
recording,:
,Trace of base line.
Sketch '0 pattern.
Number, of mines'laid. ,
Position -of marker fen_ces.
Remov.es tapes as each sec-'
tion '-is completed.
Note. 'Plotting procedure-'is as fol-
lows: -
LoCaie first stake' at,'e,nd of base"
Hne, by azimuth ana,: distance
fromi one or more terrain fea- ,
tures whiCh appear "_on map.' A
suitable terraln feature is the
center ,0\ a crossro'ad _or road
junction, bridge, high tower, or
other sharply defined 'object.
"Identify each reference point_ on /
sketch by map coordinates.
Plot section bast! lines from change-
of-direction stake to' change-of*
direqtion' stake, and indicate azi-
llluih and length of each. "
Every 500 to 1,000 yards, at any
intermediate !,stake, again tie in
trayerse to a terrain feature.. '"
Check magnetic azimuths by talHng
back -azimuths. Record aU ..... dis-
tances in yards.
1 NOV 1943 31.05
ALTERNATIVE FOR LAYING HASTY
MINE BELT The following procedure fodayinga hasty mine belt
is faster thal1 the ohe just giv,en, but the laying party is not so well
controlled, and thel-dore the method is less suitahle for night uSc,
The number 'of parties and organization arc th,r same as
',' scribed in paragraph 31.04,
, Personnel
offich in charge
\ Siting :'party
Lajflngpariy: .
. '1- -nonCom-
missioned
officer .-
12 men
Burying party
Marking party
Recording party
:i 1.06
Equipment

Same,
Mines as required
for the, section.
Same
Sathe'
Same
, '
/
(1 )
(2)
t NOV 1943
,
Same
Same
Duties
Carrying mines (8 'men).
Carries -mines 'from vehiCles
to vidnity of section base, line.
Laying mines' (4' men).
'Four'men (pace,tos) .take po-
sitions at row starting points
on _right bouridary tape (fig,_
31.06),. Remainder of laying
party supply 'pacers with mines.
___ .On signal. of noncommis-
sioned officer, all p,!:ce'rs move'
forward parallel ,td baseAlipe
tape. 10 guide pacers, stakes
are placed along boundary
tapes to mark positions of rows
in each section.
" Pacers,' numbered - by rows,
lay mines as follow:s ,: '
Pacer /Vo. 1. 'moves 1- pace
. fOJ;Ward, places mine, and then
places a ,mine 'every ? pates
until he reaches, starting !stakc
of row 1 Of next section ..
Pacer 'No.2, ,places mine
just insid'e of boundary tape.
and a mine every 2 paces until
he reaches st_arting -stake, of
row 2 of, section. '
Pacer No. "3 moves V2 pace,
forward"places mine, and then
places' a mine ,every, 4 'paces
until he reaches, starting stake
of row 3 of- next section.
Pacer No.4-moves 2%
! fOlward, places ,mine" and' then'
pIaces a mine every 4 paces
until he startirig stake
of ,row 4 of next secti.on.
Noncommissioned (JOicer in
charge 'that pacers, do,
not,leave, gaps in min,e belt by
placing in line, ,.
j_Sanre
Same
Same,
'M 5-31
i
..
I.
-
z

i
..
o
,-,
t.., :
..
!/'ii
, __ ,. .i .' . _ _'___ -,-' ,
1
. . .' ROW 4' '.' . .. . ,
_.2- -----=--'----'---7 .. 7-.'
. .' .., . 4 PAGES
. . 6 YDS " ... ' , .. '. . I " '1'9,
. . I.' . ROW 3 . .2'2 PAGES '. .' tyi
", _,-' # _
... -T7-.. "'
I . . . ' . . 4 PAGES '
. .... . 6 YDS' '. / J <!,
, .. . . . .' '. I >,'AGES (, '
: -. "_ : - _. _ _ __ Rbw 2 "2 '"' 11),\'
-1).. ___ ___ .-. .. -. ,.. .., ....... -..---. -r.
t - " , 2 PAGESi'
6YDS " o
'-1
90"
BOUNDARY
'TApE .
.' RQWL
' -I
MINE
. . .
." PAGERS
. -
f.; t
/!,\

UNE
2 PAGES/ ,. TAPE
1 PAGE .
/
X GUIDE STAKES
. .t)LAYERS -
Figure 31.06: Alternate- procedure for laying: has_ty mine belt.
)
I
.(
. (
I
/
!
, /
\ .
,
DELIBERA TE MINE FIELD
32.01,: GENERAL A deliberite field (fig. 32.01) consist; of
one '.or" more deliberate mine belts, in each of the mines arc_
laid in greater depth than in a h.asty mine.,belt and.are loca\ed by
-meas,urements. The delIberate mme belt IS compose,d of
sections .. either of uniform 'pattern (fig. 32.02a) 48 yards deep, 'or of
extended pattern (fig. 32.02d), which has the same 'minedensit as
the uniform pattern, but may be several hundred yards deep. The
unif6rrir pattern is simple, easy to lay; and easy to record. Howeyer,
greate;! depth usually is desirable, and the always
. should- be 'used/when the terrain, time, and surveying facilities
'mit. It is more difficult for the eper:ny. to remove an
tern mine_ 'field and it keeps hostile -armored yehic1es arid clear'ing
parties lange; - within the effective of' weapons. Whenever
. possible, should be ,at least 150 yard.s deep.
o , ' _ -' "
32.02. THE SECTION
'C.o A deliberate section may be either a standard
sectio!l or a turnIng

"'4Z >'DS if
fJ..2 'Z,'3'2. ftf/60o '
(
FM 5-31
5'2.
0
, NES Iv .....
AUXILIA,R.Y MA'RKER' \ Ib,
EMPTY 5GAL.OIL CAN ---,
WITH P1CKHOLES IN IT f!]:
. BURIED 6" DEEP - .).. f'f)
TELE'GRAPH ROA .. '"
D
1362.15-1791.55
1362.63-1791.77
ALL
HAVE CORNER STA.KES

so 0
2 1 .
4

,:
! ,I
!
SCALE IN 50 YAQDS
Figure Layout of t)!pical deliberate mine belt.
- I - .
'.1 NOV 1943 32.01-32.02
b. Standardseetlan A standard sedion (fig. 32.02,,) is
rectangular, its base: fs 48 yards' wide,- and 'it laj.d'in,
rows parallel to the base' Its density' is- ,one -and one.o:half
per' yard of front. It-is easy to record "the 'mine forms
for'the standard sections may be duplicated in advance f9T,u,se' by-
. the recorders. The ,location . of antipersonnel. and b,ooby-trapped
mines varies in each section, and' is' recdrded as -shown in' figure:; -

. . ,
e. Turning The turning section (fig. 32.02c) is a
segment of a'standard section. The turning section is recorded' easily
and' quickly on the duplicatec! form of the stahdard section,!howh
in figure 32,02a.'The section shO\vn r.opresents section 4 of the belt
il} figure 32.01., , . ,\
. d; Uniform pattern The uniform pattern is.
pattern with 6 'yards' between rows. 'When this pattern 55 '
used, thestalldard section is 48 yards deep (fig. 32.02a).
e. Extended pattern. "I;he extended pattern (fig. 32 .. 02d) 'has
a Tear fixed part of seven rows, similar to seven 'rows -of' the
- pattern.' It has- a forward variable part-wlth\nines spa!3ed
at 12yard intervals and with four rows parallel to the uniform
portion and spaced at distances of 6 to 50' yards. Atypical mine
helt laid with extended pattern is shown in figure 32.02e; Each sec-
- tion is recorded on" a form similar to that us,ed for the standard' .
section (fig, 32,02b),
32,02
!
NOV 1943
\
FM 5-31
'-- ;
ANTITANK MINE FIELD
( Deliberate)
______ _
Number A P mines __ -,-_
I,
I
S
S
S
S
S
S
S .
S
Symbols:
X bOOby tropped mines
antipersonnel mi'nes
o stake
'.
,
(
Report Number_._ Sedion-",--'-__ "':"
booby trap'P89 i
mines f
Toto) number AT
mines_----"---"--C--
STANDARD SECTION 48 YOS
_i;-
ROW
9
1
3'
8
\
r
i-
..
,

,-
I
7':' 7
,
-, I---
-:-
5'
6
.-
1-1
.
-:--
5
.
....
""
'I-
"
,4\
..
.
.--
1
5'
3
I
-
I'
2
c
,
'"
9'
L
f-+- 6 YDS
i
BASE LINE
Signature of
_______ ,_
Ronk and
Orgonizafion, __ ------...:..--

J
1
\
Figure '32.02a. Standard: sec/ion, deliberate mine belL
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
'./
\
ANTITANK MIN.!: FIELD
( Deliberate)
Report Numbef __ Section '-'-,-"-_':'
Number booby trapped
mjnBs _______ -"'-c--" ____
-Totol number At
Number- A P mines _-.-__ _
mi"es_'_ ____
r

STANDARD SECTION 4'8 '(OS

6 YDS

__
13'
3'
7'
s'
ROW
9
e
1
6
.+-YDS ..
-r- Ii' 5'
,6fS 11:
4
6 3
'4'
6(DS. __
6 rs .. __ .... -.,r_ .... .., s"" .
. I-- 6 YDS BASEWlEJ "
SY,mbaIS:
!
. \
.. boobY,tr.opped m'lnes Signature of
Off i cer __________ -,'--____ _
Rank, Q_nd
Oroon i 1:0 tion _---=---=_-'-__ ---= ____ _
ant'ip'srsonnel mines'
+ trip wirt!:
Place -'-__ ___ "-__
Figure -32.02b.' sut'iiin co'!!plete, deliberattt mine belt.
PM 5-31
ANTITANK MINE FIELD
(Deliberate)
Date __ , ____ _
Number AP mine-s ___ _
'Number booby trapped
mines
Tolal number AT
, mmes __ - - ' - ~ __ ..c.._
\'
;-_.c ___ STANDARD SECTION 48 vbs - ~
ROW
9
.:...--,- 114' ----.. - - - - ~ +
a
7
6
5
4
3
2
, .
Symbols:
\
)( bl.loby trapped mines
Signot'ure of
'Off icer _____ ~ - ~ - - - - ~
antipersonnel mines Ronk and
Organization ~ _________ --'-'-_
--F-:- trip wire Jploce __________ - . _ ~
,0- sloke'
, .,
Figure,32.02c. Turning section,' deliberate mine belt.
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
-Y',
ROW
,

-"""""
T
,
3' 9A
6 YDS
ENE MY
TO
I
.
\ ,3
1
'9
/
,
24 YDS,
,
,
h
TO
3'- SA
300 YDS
,
,
,--
1-:
21' 8
.
/
,
-
I
(
,
. '
,I
, -,'
7' 7

,
-
I
."
I
, 5
36 ybS
'--
I 7' 4
,
'"
I 5' 3
,
,
,
"'-
-,

6 YDS
,
,"
-
'-
_" .L...
9'
" '/ ,_./
Figure 32.02d: Extended section, deliberate' helt.
NOV 1943
.................... -
,\
)
10 9 7 6
Figure 32.02('. Mine belt laid with extenc/ed pattern sections.
MINE.SPACING WIRE: A spacing wire'is used to sim-
j)lify and speed lip the placing of mines in qoth standard and uni-
form patterns. It is 161 feet long, made up hs-shown in figure:32.03
with eight main knots spaced 18 feet to indicate the placing
of mines within I:OWS,' and nine offset knots in tqe offset portion'
to give the offsets (or each row. Offset No. I is U1eel for row No. I,
offset No.2 for-'row'No. 2, and so on .. The offset knots are identi-
fie.d by numbered tags-8, 2, 6, and so on-tied' to, the knots. For
,easy identification an extra-large knot should be lied where the
offset part joins the main ,part of the wire. A knotted wire, 01'.. tele-
phone cable preferred ,to rope, -because wet rope -and "gives
false readings.
/
1---------"'-----161'--------- -+1'\
MINE SPACING SECTION OFFSET SECTION:
-144' ' -I
MINE SPACING WIRE
DETAIL OF OFFSET SECTION
,,'
Figure Mine-spacing wf_rf.
FM
I NOV 1943 32.03
32.0.11. INCREASED CHARGES It'may be to incr .'se
the e,iplosive charge of a few mines in a field. Ten pounds of TNT'
or an additional mine placed berteath'a standard mine
the damage to a tank. When TNT is used it is placed in close con-
tact with the mine.' ' ,
32.05. USE OF BOOBYTRAPPED AND ANTIPERSONNEL
MINES
o. Booby-trappedand antipersonnel mines ,placed at irregular
. intervals through04t a deliberate minefield g)-eady in"rease the
difficulty of enemy clearing operations. To lessen the ddnger to out
own troops in removal operations the minefield, report' must
tain and concerning the location of
such 'mines. ,i '; '-
b., 'A "line" of 'mines 'is a number of 'mines ar-,
ranged imJgularly in gepth, but with trip wires so placed that an' ,
enemy crossing a line perpendicular to the rear boundary of the
mine field is to at least one trip wire. Figure
32.02b shows a typicalarrarigement of! antipersonnel and booby-'
trapped mines in ,a standard " ,
32.06. ORDERS FOR LAYING Orders for laying deliberate inine
, fields originate at 'corps or division and must specify---..:...
a. Location and extent of field.
b. Density of field.
c. Whether or not and antipersonnel mines are
to be laid. ' , .
d. Provisions, for' prote,cting field.
e. Lanes desired.
,
\
\
I'
\
I NOV, 1943 FM 5-31
j
LAYING 'DELIBERATE
Each se\lion of a deliberate mine belt normally is laid by a ,
_platoon. The, organization is as
,"/. Officers
Noncommissioned
Officers Men
.
Officer in charge . I
. Senior officer ..
.
.
..... , .. ,.; .... -
Placmg party ............... .
. , .... !, ...
1
1
1
1
1
1
6
6
12
6
6
Burying party ... \ ........... .
........ \' .
Antipersonnel party ..........
Marking' party .............. .
'Total .-, ............ ,.-, .. 1
, 6
36
32.08. PROCEDURE FOR LAYING DELIBERATE MINE BELT
Personnel Eq'ulpment
Officer in charge Map, notcbook}
.
.
lensatic com-
pass, fiashligh-t
(night). .
Senior noncom- ' Notebook, lensatic
missioned_ officer' compass. flash-
light (night).
Duties
Designa.tes location of base Hne.
Prescribes number and location of
and antipersonnel
mines.
Designates topographjcal references
and locations of auxiliary markers.
Verifies lengths and azimuths of all
reference ,lines.
Collects all safety forks and safety
pins and has them burird beside
right rear stake of each
section. \
safeguards. \
Collects and inspects a:ll mine-field
records.
'Turns' in_ records, 'and reports--com-
pletion of task to ,next, higher
commander .
Supervises and coordinates parties
handling booby-trapped and anti-
prrsonnd mines. !
Supervises ,burial of forks and
pins.
on scction skctcches nurn-
, ber and locations of mmes to be
booby-trapped and of antiper-
sonnel mines. giving type of
firing mechanism and ,position.
length, and "direction of trip-
wires.
Prrsonally checks. correctness
section sketches before burying
antitank mine.s, or
arming mines.
section sketches to officer
in: 'charge. who makes final check.
1 NOV 1943
32.07-32.08
I,
)
Personnel
Sur'veying
1
missioned
officer
6 men
Placing
l'
missioned
officer
\.
32.08
'Equipment
Lensatic compass,.
aketching set,
1 ax, 1 maul or
sledge, 1 metallic
tape,
tra'Cing,
atakes.
: 1
, wire, necessary
mines, ,and mine
covers.
\
Duties
Working from right til leftj' dri'ves
stakes' at pointa where base line
of mine l>elt changes directio'n,'
all by officer in chaige.
tape between tllese
, stakes. . -
Locates' reaT corners of
,i ,by driving stakes at.
, yard intervals' along' base' line ,of
I belt. Obtains and
lengths10f base line, .
:f:..opates forward corners of
belt sections by driving stakes in'
front, of base line 011 lines' per
pendicular' to it .. Exception-
stake on fqrwarcl boun-
dary of, 'turning se,ction is"
cated by intersection of lines as
shown'in figure 32.02c.
Stretches tape'from forward-corner
, to atakea, to -outline
boundaries, between aections. 'rhis
tape is knotted at 6 .. yar(t
vals from, tape, to show,
mine"l'ow positions., j l ,
Locates andfburies auxiliary,
ers. as, designated by' officer in
charge. '
Prepares record by
ing skc'tch showing location of
. each belt in the',fielCl, including
references ,to' 'topographic, and
auxiliary Records all
in "yards.,' 'Completes
record cafter placing,', burying,
antipersonnel, and marking ,par,;.
ties have finished work; -and sec ..
tion sketches have, been com..;
pleted.
Removes mbles from and
from boxes; fuzes them, and
places them in groups of 72 in
rear of each section.
N.oncommissioned supervises
party and checks that m,ine 'fOW.
offsets, are correctly measured.
Two spacing, wire men one at each
cnd oC mine-spacing' wire, lay" it
on row No. 1 (base . line of sec-
ltion), "sing correct offset for the
row as measured from right
boundary. tape of section.
Two place"rs, each carrying four
mines, place the
eight ,mines of, the '.row, one, at
each\knot on the spacing wire'!
1'wo sP4cing ,wire' 'men then pace
6 yards to knot in. boundary tape
marking row No. ,2, and lay wire' "
with correct offset to guicle next "
two placers .in placing ini!nes Cor
that row. I
1 NOV 1943
FM 5-3)
.--p
ersonne
\
\
--
Burying party:
-1 noncom-
missioned
officer
1,2 men
,
Antipersonnel
party:
1 noncom-
missioned
officer
6 men
..
FM 5-31
.
I
E
qu, pm"
"
t
,
6 shovels, 6 picks,
sandbags for
spoil.
..
2 booby-trapping
mechanisms,
antipersonnel
mines, fuzes,
trip wires, pliers,
hatchits, knives,
2 shovels.
.
Party repeats operation until mines
are placed in all nine rowS.
NOT,,: When the extended pattern
is laid, the first seven rows arc
similar to the un,iform pattern
and in a forward vari--
able portion of four rows is laid
(see fig. 32.02d). In rugged ter-
rain or dense vegetation, interval
between mines - in each row is
paced off to supplement use of
mine-spacing wire, or as substi-
tute.
Anns, buries, and camouflages all
mines except those to, he booby
trapped. Places all spoil in sacks,
and removes it. Collects all forks
from armed rpines and, on com-
pletion of a section, turns them
I, in to senior noncommissioned
officer. He checks their total
against mines laid in the section
and, on' order of officer in charge,
has' them buried in contal"ner at
stake marking right-hand
line, corner 'of ea'ch section.
Places mines to booby trapped
upside down, and digs .-holes for
them. Noncommissioned officer,
- notes locations from section
sketch of senior noncommis-
'sioned officer,
Noncommissioned officer plpces
markers beside antitank mmes,
from which locations .of
sonnel mines are referenced
fore the antitank mines are
huried. . I
Upon completion of work, -noncom-
missioned officer gives section
, sketch to noncommissioned offi-
cer of antipersonnel party.
Enters section after' burying party
has completed its work, and
booby traps designated mines,
(Note: Boohy trapping, is hazard-
ous; while it is being done only
members of antipersonnel party
are permitted in section.)
After booby trapping is completed,
installs antipersonnel mines as
indicated on section sketch by
officer in charge,. Works each
sectiqn from front to rear.
Does not arm mines
until senior ,nortcommissioned
officer makes final check, directs
arming, and collects safety pins
and clips .
.
1 NOV 1943 32.08
Personnel
Marking party: '
l' noncom-
missio.ped '
officer .

;Equipment
2 sldges, wire,
stakes, signs,

'.
Duties
boundary stakes into'
removes tracing _ tape from' right
and! rear boundaries ,bf section,
and: reporb that section is"
plete., , " ,,', "
stakes, standard I
,marking signs from .truck.
Erects marking fence with signs as
by officer ,in charge.
. '
32.09. RECORD The coinpieted mine-belt record,
" : ,i,' , .
ci'. Di,agrarn" Of. in" ine: h" eIts, indicating, ,Iocation+ of varidus sec .
tibns, (fig. 32.09). " , I '.1 /'
b. Azimuths and lengths of section base lines.
, c:; Number of mines laid in 'each section and total .number of '
mines in each belt;
d. Reference; from stakes on rear boundary to auxiliary,mark-
ers by taped and magnetic,azimuths taken to y.o; or, if
auxiliary markers are not" used, direct to topographic
- markers. '" , :',' '
e. References of-auxiliary markers to topographic markers by
paced qistances and inagnetic azimuths. '
f. Map of topographic'markers, with a reference
to topographic map from which, they' were obtained. . '
g. Location of 1;mried safety forks.
h. Trace of all llline-belt fences.
.'" I
I 32. i O. SPEED OF INSTALi.ATION estimatedthat in ,
first hour an engineer platoon can complete two -sectidns, ,or ap- .
proximately 100 of front, and two and one-half sections each
hour thereafter. .," ,
32.11. M.INE.FIELEI CAMOUFLAGE Antitank arid booby-trap-
ped minesshbuld be buried and camouflaged. Evidences of activity
such as tracks, paths,: or p'atier, in or near the -field,
. must be removed. Under no circumstanc'es must traffic make con,
spicuous detours around a If lane traffic is nee.l,ssary, it'
must be controlled c!\refully to avoid convergence of tracks at the
and of .lane. AntipersorineI. mines, firing mechan;
isms, and trip wires are concealed. Trip w.ires are 'not stretched taut,
but are placed loosely in grass or brush".or against .: ba,ckground
with which they blend. . ,
32.09-32.10-32.11 1 NOV 1943
FM 5-31
\
'(
, .
REPORPANTITANK MINE (Deliberate)
, ' ,
ReportNQ_,
I. ORGANIZ'ATION __ __
2,DATI' ,--_'-'--.,._-'-_
(
3. M,AP REFEREN<;E
4. NUMBER OF
5. SKETCH t '
( I ENEMY
1362.15-17$1.55 !
1362.63-179,1.77
Al.l. SECTIONS HAVE CORNER STAKES
. !: ., II I , I
jf
' $0 0 2 1 '!' 5
, seALE III so
DANGERI'
This field contolns booby trapped AT miMI. See cttochee! Individual
section s,ketches for details.
'Show pattern of mine field, laeollans: of mo'r'kera cmd'topographiC
markers Including the distances' and magnetic ozlmy'ths. IndicQte rn'op coordinates'
of topographic markers, Where POlllble/ rl\lference cefrner. 'by two tie lines, ShoW,
magnetic azimuth Qnd lenoth of m,lne- laid boundaries '. '
Sig'nalure of
Ofticer ___ -,-_____ _
Ronk and 'I'
Oroo"izotion' __ ""'"_-'-__
PloCfl _________
'. FigUre 32.09. Report, mine field (consisiing of belt).
, " I,
PM 5-31
1
32.12. 'VARYING DENSITIES OF MINE FIELDS Frequently it
is desirable to. lay mine fields of greater density than 1 Yz mines per
yard of front: Usually this is done by laying a zon,e of several uni-
form or extended-pattern Another method is to. _add-rows
the uniform pattern. If ,the, scardty' of 'antitank 'mines n:takes it
nec('ssarY to lay delib<:ratc mine fields of less' density than one and
onc-half mines per yard ,of front, the. standard section 'cas'ily may
ada}.ltcd to a lesser density by using fewer rows and modifying
. initial offsets to 'maintain an even distribution. For instance, a
tion containing six rows, with mines at 6 yards within fO\-\'5.,
gives a densi'ty of one mine per 'yard of front.
, "
/
, ,
/ ..
(
SECTION III
\ '
, ANTITANK-MINE SUPPLY
, I ,
33.01. LOGISTICAL DATA Vehicles-carrying capacities for anti-
tank mines' (MIAI), exclusive of personnel; are-
" a. 2%-ton truck-370 boxed or 500 unboxed mines,
b. I %-ton truck-220 boxed or 300 unboxed mines,
c:. I-ton trailer-I 50 bo,xed or 200 unboxed mines,
I
33.02.ISSU.lNG AGENCY The procurement, storage, and' issue
of antitank mines, flntitank mine fuzes, and safety clips is it respon
l
sibilityof the Ordnance Department. Antitank fnines are supplied
to the': using arms and' services .;in the saine manner as other class, V
supplies. I
33.03. DELIVERY TO MINE.FIELD SITE' The using agency
i" , I .
mally draws antitank mines from ammunition-supply points and de-
livers them by tpa covered position in rear of the mine field
where they are unboxed
i
fuzed, and assembled.
/, ,', .
33.04,.' HAND.CARRYWhere itis impracticable to bring a truck
close to a selected mine;field mines are carried by hand. 'Using
the carrying handles, one man. carries' four mines; two in each
hand. Four mines weigli approximately 40 pounds. ' [
33.05; RECOVERY AND SALVAGE When an
field no longer is needed, the'lmines are def.Ized and picked up, each
mine being examined carefully and usable mines' salvaged, If the
safety fork cannot ,be replaced the minesho,uld be destroyed in
place by, e"piosive. '
FM 5-31
1 NOY' 1943
(
,
33.01-33.02-33.03
33.04-33.05
SECTION IV
DUMMY MINE FIELDS
34.01. Dummy mine fields are used to supplement real mine fields
and to confuse delay the enemy. They are dangerous when in'-
correctly used, and the following principles gm>erning their employ'
ment must be understood thoroughly and applied.
__ . a._ mine fields are of greatest'i, value ,unexpect-
edly encountereq by the" enemy whi,le" he is under effettive fire.
They should be sitell well back in a defensive position so the enemy
has no opportunity to reconnoiter the fil';ld sufficiently to discover
its true character. .
-b. Laying dummy mine in conJunctioq wi'th/
fields greatly increases' the effectiveness' of both since the enemy"-
cannot easily tell them apart and is forced to consider Clearing the
. i
area.
c. Dummy mine fields made to look as real as possible,
ipcluding the erection of standard marking fences and
markers. They rn.ust be treated as real- mine fields, no troops or
. vehicles passing through them exdept by standard lanes. .
. d. Metallic such' as old of metal and" empty
ration cans'laid in dU!llmy' c"r real mine fields; -cause' a feactiqn 'on
the e'nemy's, electtical mine detectors _and force him to take con-
. siderably more time in checking and clearing/the field. :.
,
. 'e. mine fields may contain a few scattered antipcr-
son'nel and antitank' mines. 'If these are' placed they_ must be rc-
co'rded and reported in the samf manner as a mine
34.01 1 NOV 19.,3 ,FM ,5-31
CHAPTER 4
MINE FIELD BREACHING AND
CLEARANCE
SECTION I
GENERAL
41;OL ENEMY MINE FIELbS,
a. The enemy lays' antitank and
mines at every opportunity. Avenues of approach usually a're. mined,
and. must' be, cleareci'. This requires rapid and
sanc'e to locate the enemy mine fields, and employment of personnel
thoroughly in clearance.
b. In terrhory which. has been occupied by the en,emy, per-
sonnel and vehicles must avoid mpvement on avenues -of approach
which have not been investigated and cleared of 'mines .. Mines are
found on ,roadway surfaces shoulders, and in the'-ditches-. The
areas adjacent to craters will be mined. to prevent bypassing" Fre-
quently the sides of these craters' Plined with antipersonnel
mines. Crossroads- a'nd road junctions, turnouts, parking areas, and
. culverts usually lire mined. .
--.; c. The enemy's prepared defense pgsition will be covered by
mine fields which m'ay wire obstacles and tank ditches.
,These mine fields will have belts bf various types of antitank and
antipersonnei mines:. Nuisance :mines are to be expected' in any area
favorable f?r troop in front of the enemy position.
'41.02. MINEFIELD DIS,"OVERY
'. ,
a. To every'ytrd of ground with a mine, detector
or 'by probing would slow the advance too much: /Risks miist be
taken, but losses will be considerably if all personnel arc
'and are trained to se'arcp i,visually for mi.nes at all times. A
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 41.01-41.02
, ; " ' : \
visual search is effective on many types of ,Disturbed soil,
piles of stones, mine boxes or of mine mate;-ial, and,
sary pickets all are of mined areAs. Low wires of
all types must be approached with caution. Anything unusual is
worth suspecting, and any investigation 'rpade with care.
b. The study of aerial photographs is a supplementary means
of locating enemy miile fields. Large scale photographs ( minimum
-1: 15,000, desirable-I: 10,000) are necessary.
(1) The following of mine fields m'lY be .noted. I.
(a) Fences or other markers at mine-field boundaries.
(b) Vehicle tracks ending in craters.
(c) The absence of vehicle tracks in an otherwISe well-traveled
area.
(d) Tracks for no reasons may indicate a g'lp.
re) Regular paths and tracks made by mine-laying party -and
their vehicles. .
(n Mine crates or boxes may indicate a minefield in the vicinity."
(g)' Newly buried mines show a characteristic pattern of i dis-
.iurbedearth. Under favorable conditipns, the 'number of rows in',
the field, patterns, details. of, the spacing, and presence or absence .'
of gaps can be determined, I .'
(2) Camouflage, weather, and' random laying of mines partially'
defeat the efforts of the interpreter. Pljotographs offer information _
on enemy rea,r areas, but must also be chec.ked, on
the ground 'Is the advance progresses. Inability to identify a mine i'
field on an aerial photograph is not proof that mines have not been .
laid in that area. . .
c. The Gerffians hdve no standard, universally used mine-field
pattern or plan. Many of their mine fields patterns so com- -
plicated as to appear haphazard. Normally they.' consist' of successive:
nonparallel mine belts laid in considerable depth .. mines or :
small, isolated groups of mines may be found laid forward of -the .
main mine field. Usually they are with small -
stones" or other inconspicuous mate'rial. mines may:
be found in any type mine field or isolated mine installatio
Q
Gen- '
erally fewer mineS are. booby tral?ped and fe"ler antipersonnel mines .
are laid, if the enemy is withdrawing rapidly.
'de\ With 'sufficient tJme' to prepare, his position, the" enemy:
mines it ca'refully with bOlh antitank and antipersonnel mines. Care-
ful ground recorinaissanceand a detailed plan then are' required '
to breach it successfully. - . -
e. Often 'the Civilians in the area suspected lof containing mine
fields have observed the enern.y's mining activities and can give accu-
rate' informatio.n as to phe location of- these mirtes marking;
devices.
... , ".,
"""u 'IDA':
41.03. ENEMYMINEFIELD RECONNAISSANCE
a. Reconnaissance of enemy mine fields is started as soon as
possible and completed rapidly to prevent the enemy consolidating
. -his mine-field defense. Reconnaissance normally is ma<;le at night.
b. Engineer and specially trained, reconnaissance parties a'rc
employed actively the entire)ronl'in to obtain quickly }
a clear picture of'the trace arid of the enemy
lay-out. .
c. Reconnaissance objectives include-,.
(1) Loca!ing front edge of enemy field.
(2) Obtairiing deepest possible cross section of enemy field, includ-
ing 'location, depth, pattern,' and types of successive mine belts.
" - , - ,/
(3) Obtaining details of obstacles, fences, and antitank ditches.
{4) Checking IJatural obstacles cir unfavorable terrain for track or
wheeled vehicles.
d. The results from these mine-field reconnaissance largely
determine the additional
i
necessary, provide in-'
formation on which to base plan,s for an attack.
FM 5 .. 31
1 NOV 1943 41.03
SECTION II
. t, "
MINE-FIELD RECONNAtSSANCE!
, .
42.01. ORGANIZATION OF MINE.FIELD RECONNAISSANCE
PARTY' The Il}ine-field party consists of one officer
or noncommissioned officer and six enlisted men, two of whom are
armed with carbines 'or !ubmachine guns. The remainder of the
party is a""ed only with hand grenades. All personnel are equipped
as lightly as possible. . i' ..
, . /. .
42.02. OPERATION OF MINE-FIELD RECONNAISSANCE
PARTY (fig. 42.02) .
Personnel
Officer
or
missioned officer
in charge
Equipment
Map, compass,
20D-yd,
spool of ,strong
( cord, hand
grenades, flash-
light, pliers.
Duties
".,Leads party to starting point, indi-
cates diredtion, to be followed
through mine field,. and checks
to see proper- direction is" main-
tained.
Follows closely behind' Nos. 1 and
2' as ther.. move through field.
Pins No.2 s tape to' ground at end
and every 20. feet. / ,
Reels out cord 'and pins it 'to
ground immediately, to left oC--
tape, (This cord is left in place
the reconnaissance is' co;m-
"pleted and serves, to mark for
later use the safe path 'through
the field.)
Investigates' each or trip wire
discovered, disarms it, and re-
cords "type by knots in tape:
'Tril? wire-:1. knot, .
Antipersonnel "mine-2 knots
Antitank'mine-3 knots .
New type 'of. mine-4 knotS,
Each mine. inyestigated and' dis-
armed is replaced 'carefully and
recamouflaged. New type of mines
are not disarmed' until ,'is
returni'ng from 'completed recon-
naissance, '
returning, fastens, cord
firmly, to, s;rourid and up
tape laid' by No.2, and all odd
pieces of 'tape left in _path.,
Brings: up rear of returning, party
in order .to disarm_ new ',type of
mines been, found.
Other' personnel return " alqng
tape in ,- same order: and spacing'
as before, and withdraw to a'dis-
tance 'while new type of mine is
disarmed. .' .
, .. "'u 'O&!'l
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z

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::
w
RESERVE
CARRIES SPARE
ELECTRIC DETECTOR
1
OFFICER OR
NCO IN CHARGE
SECURITY MEN
ARMED RBIN_ES_. .
ORSMG
---..;1
RELIEF DETECTOR _______
MAN AND SUPPLY . . ________
,
Figure' 42.02. Mine-field reconnaissance par.ty.
'---

. -----
.
\
"\ ENEMY'
'. DETECTOR
MINE MARKER
. AND TAPE LAYER
'\
Personnel Equipment Duties
No. I man

mine detector, locating
(detector)
[
electrical mine
mhles and trip wires, o,n' a 400t
,
detector;
path. Prods for mines, if detec-
tors, are not available.
JIf taut trip wire is found:,
,
ately calls officer or
j
'sionecl . '"officer in char'ge and
,
warns No.2, who withdraws, 25
'I
yards and takes hold ',of cord.
Officer or noncommjssioned offi-
,
cer: in charge follows trip wire to
each of its 'ends, disarming
to which it is attached, cuts trip
}
wir.e, and lays' ends 'on ground
clear of ratrol 'pMh on either
side. No. then pulls on cord to
i
signal No.2 to -rejoin him.
Uses ,! particular caution to locate
,
boci:by traps, if wire is en-
.
" .
cO\.lntered.

No.2 man
Reel' of white tape) Follows No. 1 'closely and ',places
(marker) I mine markers. markers on aU mines No. 1 finds.
-
tape anq', unreels it as he
[
,
moves forward,'
I
Cuh : loose trip wires and fastens
, their ends to ground, c1e.ar of the
I
4-foot' path,: With markers to
which piecesl of white
tape are:

,." , '
Nos. 3 and, 4 '(local Carbines' or 25, yards, in rear of Nos: 1
security) , machine guns,
and 2, ready I'to open fire on
em:my patrols, but does not fire
unl:ess absolutely necessary.
,
No,5 tape, Carries, supplies.
(relief) markers,
Relieves No. I at inter"
6d.
,
!
val$.
, ,
Dfsadns but does not lift any,nUnes
, marked by No, ,2 and passed by
officer or: noncommissioned offi ..
i
cerj in thilrge. '
\
,
NOTE: If four knots in tape indi-
I
is new type o/,:mine
J
marker is left intact and -mine is
disarmed _ by officer or noncom-
missioned. officer in charge on
,
trip.
i
\
,
No,
6
Spare electrical ' (1) ieniains at point w.here party
(reserve) mine. detector; entered mine, field, as reserve.
.
hand grenades . (2) Carries spare 4etector.
, I
NOV 1943 PM 50031
knotted tapes brought in by a rrconnaissancc party
,able information concerning the enemy mfne field, When laid but on
the grou'nd in a rear area, it provides records 9f mine positions" trip
wires, and min'e types. When 9f these recoras 'are
ated on a sketCh of the'm;ne.fie'ld area they provide an indication
of the mine.belt axis.
42.04. RESUME
a.When detectors' are not available, No.1 lI!an of the recon
naissance 'party prods' for mines .
.,.Every member in a party, must Ife trained to handle Imy
one of the assigllments., . I ,
c. Recoimaissance normally is carried out at night to preserve
Jl'nd escape enemy fire.
d'. No evidence of reconnaissance cxcept the cord is fert: on
the path whcn the mission is completed.
e. The 'greater the number of recon:qaissance lines completed
and tapes studied, the more accurately the mine field can be plotted
and the Illore effectively' breaching plans' can be organized.
I
SECTION III
MINE-FIELD BREACHING AND
MARKING
43.01. MINE.FIELDBREACHING \
a. 'Mine-field breachingi, performed by specially trained
troops. To insu,re suc.cess the entire' operation careful train"
, ; ing and coordination of all arms.
b. Breaching a mine field in preparation for an assault reo
'sembles the, opposed crossing of a river alld requires the establish
ment bf an infalltry bridgehead force to cover the troops clearing
vehicle lanes through the mine field. Since the enemy maintains a
close watch, over ,his mine fields with, observers and patrols, and fre
quently covers' thelO with fire, it will seldom be possible t9 clear
lanes without opposition, therefore full use is made of, darkness,
smoke, and heavy artillery concentrationsand'barrages.
c:.If reconnaissance, shows the mine field contains large num
'bers of antipersonnel mines and trip wireS the breaching operation
" NOV 1943 42.03-42.04-43.01
\
must start with clearing narrow paths to permit rapid passage bf
ihe bridgehead troops with a minimum of casual.!ies.
d. The number of personnel paths established will depend on
the size of the bridgehead force, the depth 'of the mine field, and
the density of mines in the mine field belts.- One foot
path, per assault company is a minimum.
The path-clearing parties normally will operate under cover
. of darkness lls4ally beginning' at suc;h time as the
lishment of the bridgehead by daylight. When the footpaths are
cle'ared the assault infantry parties pass through and establish the
bridgehead.
, f. C?mbat _ shows that even behind an/infantry
bridgehead the difficulties of mopping-up and the d,mger of enemy
infiltration make a -small infantry protective detachmerit
for the enemy end of each mine-fleldvehicle lane.
9. The task qf rapidly clearing and marking vehicle lanes
through the mine field usually will employ fully all available en-
gineer or other specially trained
h. Specially trained personnel infantry' and/or engineers are
employed in clearing. paths for infantry troops through mine fields.
If ,prior rcconn<lissance -has indicated: the presence of
obstacles these parties should use bangalore torpedoes to breach
them. parties may use scorpions or other, mechanical" to
explode the and antipersonnel mines in the footpaths, or
they may use mine dctectors and remove them by hand. If mine de-
tectors are used each party is in tl}e Same manner as the
mine-field reconnaissance party (par. 42.021,. However, the opera-
tional procedure is 'modified as follows:
(1) ,No cord is laid.; , ,
I, ,', .
(2) White tape is laid and securely fastened to the ground on the
center line of the path. It is not knotted. This tape remains in place
as a guide to troops passing through the lane.
(3) All and antipersonnel mines in the path are disarmed,
lifted, and placed well clear of the path.
43.02. TACTicAL CONSIDERATIONS IN BREACHING
a. Breaches through the mine fields must be opened rapidly
,so the' protecting infantry may be reinforced with tanks,
antitank guns, and support weapons.' ....
b. Antitank guns must get thte/ugh the mine field or other
obstacle rapidly. The time of attack and the time required for
breaching must be planned to allow antitank guns to' get to their
positions in, time. .
I IIIQV 1943 FM 5-31
,I
passage of a complete' anmcitec
mine fields to 'exploit success is a phase separate
passage Of the infantry support weapons. The passage of an exploit:
ing atfuored usuaJly necessitates clearing' additional lanes, be- '
cause those originally made for the infantry-bridgehead force will '
be full of supply trafflc forthe' bridgehead troops.
43.03. MINE-FIELD BREACHING PHASES Mine-field breach-
ing closely resembles an assault river crossing, Principal phases of
mine-field breaching are- '
a. Reconnoitering and selecting suitable sites for the breaches.
" i b. Establishing a protective infaritry to cover-
, (l) Clearing and marking lanes thrdugh mine field.'
, (2) Controlling and assisting the passage, of exploiting support ve-
hicles. Controlling and assisting this traffic is important
and must be to provide alternate routes for traffic since some
lanes may become blocked with' disabled vehicles and other lanes'
m.ay fail of ultimate completion.
43.04. METHODS OF BREACHING MINE FIELDS
- a. Minll!-liftlng methods
(l) Locating mines by the electrical detector, followed by hand
removal, is the most reliable and quickest method. '
(2) Prodding, for mines, by hand! removal, is slow, It re-
the minimum of equipment. It must' be to clear non-
metallic mines.
Mechanical methods'
, \(1), The "scotpiori," or flail, which is 'fudunted on a
taqk, can be operated under small,arms fire. It is slow and those
used so far have" had frequent break-downs. '
(2) Roller' devices, propelled either by tanks or by special pilot
vehicles, intended mainly for reconnaissance in an
assault to locate the near edge of the enemy mine field.
(3) Tank-operated plows excavate mines in theirpatb.
II. ExploSive or blast m'ethods
'(l) The, "snaken-an erilarged, bangalore torpedo.
(2) The "ca,rro.t""-an explosive charge in- front of. a tank'
and fired from inside when over the mine field,
(3) primacord net. " I
(4) Charges placed on mines and exploded to destroy them when
lodted by electric detector or by hand prodding. , '
43.05. PLANNING MINE-FIELD BREACHING
a. The m.ethod adopted for breaching a, mine field depends
upon various 'factors 'such as:
FM 5-31
, NOV 43.oi-43.03-43.04-43,05
(I) Nature of terrain and physical, obstacles,.
(2) Types of mines in fielfl metaliic or nonmetallic - and their
susceptibility to blast.
(3) Climatic conditions-amount 01 moonlight; chances offog, and
suitability for u1ic. of smoke.
(4) Possibilities of'deception or surprise,
(5) Whether or not armor is to pass thro)lgh lanes,
(6) Over-all depth and number of belts in enemy system 'lf mine
fields, ' .
(7) Availability of mechanical and explosive means of clearing
mines.
(8) Whether or not enemy will use gas;
.b; Whatever of methods is employed, the ,basic
essentials are---
\ (1) Accurate, ,detailed rec'onnaissance, to locate 'near' edge of mine'
'ficids as far as 'possible, to discover whole field "in
depth, ,
(2) A detailed all-arms plan for assaulting and reducing enemy.
on tactical.and technical data.
(3) Rehearsal of as'sault under realistic conditions on similar ground
in rear, to achieve coordi,nation anq timing.
(4) P;()vision for adequate reserves, and, a plan to deal with uri;.
expected mirie fields, '
(5) Provision for bringing forward supporting weapons of infantry,
especially ant!tank guns, in time to be in position to repulse a .

'c. Factors bearing upon the planning of breaching operations
are:
. \
(1) The attack generally should' be launched as quickly as possible'
to prevent the. enemy from further consolidating his defenses and
strengthening his. mine fields, ., .'
(2) Reconnaissance of a mine field .. cqntaining antiperSonnel
- , " .
is slow, and. usually can he night or under-an effectiv
smoke screen.
-- (3) An launched with and>prep-
aration u,sually will faiL ,
(4) Rehearsal takes time ; but many other essential preparations for
the attack, such as establishing supplies of gasolimi and ammunition,
',can be going on simultaneously.
(5) Because of the scarcitY.of trained personnel and the danger in-
in breaching operations the number of lanesfor vehicles
be kept to the minimum - probably one per assaultiIlg-battalion
43.05, 1 NOV 19,3 FM 5-31
,/
, ,
Experience ,has that out of three lanes attempted, two
may be- expected to succeeq. Separate wmally are required for
an armored
(6) Priority of traffic through and traffic control on both sides
of a field mllst be organized carefully.
(7) 'the lanes; and the routes up to and beyond them, must be
marked clearly.
(8) Adequate equipment, and stores, including- must
prepared and supplr points established the operation begins.
(9) Good means of communications from each mine-field lane to
using units and higher headquarters be provided in dllplicate
so the failure of one method will' not cut communicatiqn per-
manently. .,
(10) It ;"'ust be remembered that once the attack is launched, weak
,spots wilJ be found where breaches can be made by the energetic
action:, of few men. Hence it is- essential that all mine-
field breaching operations be flexible in application and capable of
being startep by the .men available at the critical time and place.
43.06.ELECTRICAL.DETECTOR OFMINE.FIELD
(see apl" I)
Clbjec:t;ve The is to make an &-yard lane
througl( the ""ine' field as rapidly as possible, and thep to widen
it to 16! yards. ' ,
b.! Detcithment Using electrieal d.<!tectors, a mine-field-'
breachipg detachment of an engineer plato!:Jn -'1 5 non-
officers, and 39 men - a '1S-yard lane
through, a mine field: If sufficient personnel is not available the
ot.parties may be reduced.
(1) The' detachment uses nine electrical detectors and has ,thtee
detectors iri reserve. If the mine field is less than 250 yards deep,
the forward detector 'party and three detectors may be eliminated.
The, breaching detachment is organized as follows:
Officer
Advance :party .. " ....... ; .... .
No. J party-taping .......... .
No.2 party-detection' ........ .
No. 3. party-detection ...... ..
No.4 party-;-rcserve and supply.
Total .... ,,; .. . ' ....... -.. .
Noncommissjoned
Officers
, 1
1
1
1
1
5

3
9
9
9'
9
39
'(2) Party' personnel is interchangeable. Each numbered party is
. ,
trained h:! detecting and taping technique and is capable of per
forming either task. .' . . . . . '>
(3) Each numbered par.tyconsists of 10 ep.listed men, including
noncommissioned officer, 3 detector .operators, 3' assistants, 2- mine,
lifters, ami 1 runner.
c .. Party duties I . . ,.
(1) The advance party indica!es to the taping party the location
of the starting tape and lays out the direction of the center tape by
magnetic azimuth. This detail also locates all cross tapes.
(2) No. 1 party, u;ing tape, marks. out two 8,yard lanes from
. base tape. It becomes a detector party on completion of lane taping.
(3) No.2 and NC!. 3 parties each cleat a single lane.
(4) No.4 party is in reserve, and assembles supplies.,
': (5) The initial 8.yard lane is on the right, so tape laid to the right
I, of the' initial
1
1ane ,will . ',I: :, i' "
. (6) All men work ,facing the enemy. . ..
, .
'I
I
, '!
,
- !
\
'i:
\
\
,
43.07. PROCEDURE FOR BREAC.HING MINE FIELD BY ELEC
TRICAL DETECTOR
Personnel
Advance party:
lofiker
J
1 noncommis-
sioned officer.
3 men
No. 1 party

l' noncommis-
sioned officer
gmen
, .'
.

Leilsatic 'compass,
stak,e,s, .
marking lights.
3 electric
detectors, 1000
. yards tape
in rolls, "mine
markers, 'com-
P!lSS, nails, 6d,
pliers:
.
Duties
Officer work of entire
breaching party.
Noncommissioned officer ... directs
advance party.
Advance party selects liest'locatiori
, fol" breaching; establishes start-
ing i line for No, 1 party j pro-
ceeds thrbugh mine field using
borrowed detector if necessary,
finds its outer' limit and locates
guide stakes or lights for No.- 1
party j and establishes location of
cross tapes on way hack.
Lane Taping
Tapes two a-yard lanes forward
from base tape as follows:
Men Nos. J. 2, 3, taped'toge'thcr
at a-yard spacing, run out main
tapes'from base lihe, using elec-
trical detectors to check ground
immediately 'to front as thf'Y
move forward (fig. ,43.07-a).
Tapes may be run out from tf',?1s
in spe,cial holders fastened ..'to
their backs, leaving their hands
.free. (Detecto'rs'-operated within
of each othe;r may ,cause
interference which decreases their
rfficif'ncy. In this case the two
side detector men drop back in
line with the noncommissioned
officer who follows IOta 15 yards
hehind the center detectof'-'opt'r-
ator.' Th(' side det(""d:or men are
taped' to' the noncommissioned
officer to maintain prop('r 8-yard
spacing.)
_Men. Nos. 4,5, 6 (assistants) 'fol-
low, pin Idown tapes - and cut
them when required, pl,ace mark-
('rs on mines found along, tape
litj-es, investigate, disarm,' and 'cut
trip wires. located by detector
men and rU,n out cross-line .. tapes
when ordered. Cross tapes are set
at right angles to center tape,
and extend 5 'yards beyond lan'e-
boundary, tape. Normally they
are/laced at--approximately 'I DO:..
yar ,intervals, to equalize clear-
ing tasks. Several cross, tapes are
required for a deep mine field.
M(ln No.7 is a runner who accom ..
panies noncommissioned officer
in charge.
Men Nos. 8 and 9 are heldin
reserve at base line.
\' Persunnel
No, 2 party-
detecting: .
.
..
1 noncommis-
sioned officer '
9men,
(
No.3 party-
detecting;
I
1
sioned officer
9 men
'10' 4 party-
reserve and
supply:
1 noncommis-
sioned officer
gmen-
43.07
.
Equipment

3 electrical
detectors
j
mine
wire.
g, electrical
detectors,
mine markers,
wire.
,
putics
Noncommissioned officer in charge
commands party and establishes
proper direction tape.s.
Mine 4eteclion
On completion ()f lane taping; party
returns alohg hqundary tapes: to
assembly arcli ,and '-becomes' a
detector party. widening to a-16-
yard lane, the a-yard lane cleared
by No" 2 party (fig, 43,07c),
." As soon as taping party has
." vanced 15 yards, No. 2 party
starts detecting forward from
tape line ,in right-hand lane (fig.
43,07b), '
Men Nos. J J 2. '3 operate
dete.ctors, 8 feet of
frontage working in echelon at
1S'-yard intervals.
Men Nos. 4, S,. 6 follow in" rear 'as
'assistants 'and mark mines found.
They switch plac'es with detector
operators at 20-minute intervals.
Men Nos. 7 imd 8 disarm and lift
mines, either' hy hand lift or by
phlling, with. a 50-yard wire.,
lifted mines outside lane
tapes.
Man No.9 is' a runner who
panies noncommissioned officer
in charge.
olficer commands
party.
When ordered, walks up center-
line' tape 'and starts detecting
forward from' cross-line tap'" in
right-hand lane; .using same pro-
cedure as No. 2 Iparty. "
On completion, returns down cen-
ter-lirie tll-pe to 'cross-lirie tape
and starts to 16 'yards
lane' -it has .Just .finished, unless
No. 4 party is lIsed to' widen it.
(fig, '4:1,07c),
Replaces casualties in "men
and equipment.
Unloads and Idistributes lane-mark-
ing supplies. ,i
: markers.
CheCks for mines' converging
apR
pro aches to lane. f'
Maintains
..
1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
\.
i'
\
I
i
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1.
-
z
o
<
-
::
..
--..._,-
,

ENEMY
-"
RUNNER

,
I"'::.t
,

CHARGE
Figure 43.07a. Taping part'}' for breaching min'!-fie1d lane.
"
/
DETECTOR MAN
, .

, 1"
.. rr -\ .J'.
. '
I.IFTER
" ,-
RUNNER
\
ASSISTANT
DETECTOR MAN
Jligure,,43.07b. Detector party for mine-field lane.
DETECTOR MAN
SWEEPS 8. FEET
OF -FRONTAGE
,,;,
.S


l


~
...
I

1\
.5
~
1
"

,
'"
"
~
0
.;
...

,

J:
FM 5-31 .1 NQV, 1943
\ 43.08. SUPPLlII:S The following supplies arc required to clear
a 16-yard lane for 400 yards.
j

Item
Mine detectors
Tape, tracing-white .. .
Wire pins .......... ,'.
Tape, tracing-white .. .
Barbed wire ..... ', .. ..
Pickets, 6 feet long
-(angle-iron preferred).
Lane markers ....... ' ..
Mine markers ." ....... -.
Nails/6d ,I .
Sledge hammers .... ; .. ,
Wire' cutters ......... .
Wire or rope ......... .
Lights, amber ........ .
Lights, ...
Quantity
12 .........
2,000 yards .... .
100 ........ .
2,000 yards .... .
3,000 yards; ....
45 .... " .. .
40 ........ .
50 ....... ..
2 pounds .. r.
4 ........ .
12 pairs .... l
100 yards .. , ..
34 .........
48 (4 spares).
43.09. MARKING THE LANE
.
Remarks
Minimum 12 (50 percent
spares-not included-are
. desirable),.
To' tape! lane.
For fastening tape 'to ground.,
For marking edges of lane, on
pickets, and approach lines
to. lane.
For fencing, lane.
For _ -support,ing lane-marker
wire and tape.
One every 25 yards on picket.
To fasten tracing, -tape.
For pulling mines. ,
lights. If battery,
a 50 per.cent replacement
- stock of and bulbs
is necessa'ry.
; 11. The original a-yard lane is marked only by tape.
When it is widened to 16. yards lane markers are erected .(fig.
43,09a). Standard lane markinginclucles erecting high pickets at
25-yard intervals along each side' of the lane from entrance to exit.
'\" ,
Do'ub-Ie marker signs are placed on the entra,nce and exit
ets, and single markqr signs on all other pickets. The signs must'
be placed at leas( 5 feet high on the picket. A.. two-strand barbed-
wire fence erected between, pickets, and white tape,s which
. originally marked the boundary of ,the 16-yard lane are raised and'
placed, on the top strand of the fence to ,serve' as mi
additional warning marker. Centerline tapes are removed.
, , i /' -
b. The standard lane-marking sign is rectangular (fig. 43.09a),
pointed at one end, and painted half red and I).alf white on both
sides. The white portion points to the cleared lane; the red, to the
mine field. . ' .
c. At night, colored lights are clipped to the marker signs at
25-yard intervals (fig. 43.09b). These may be issue flashlights With
co.lored len,es, shaded by C-ration cans to restrict and direct the'
light beam (fig. 43.09c). A green light is clipped to. the white or
""fe side of the marker, and an amber light to the red or danger
side. On each of the double' lane markers the and exit
of the lane (fig. 43.09b) an additional green light is placed below
the amber and green lights. All markers are placed at least 5 feet
43.08-43.09 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
;.> I
\
I
/ '
MINE
FIELD
KEY
'GREEN', , .
I . A n=> CqNvERGENCE
. . . MARKERS
AMBER GREEN
, B '1Ir1> LANE MARKERS
'c CORNER PICKET
MARKERS
GRliEN
J
ENEMY
I C
A
50 YDS.
MINE
FIELD
Figure 43.09il. Minefield lane.
5-31 . ,I NOV 1943
\
Figure 43.09b. Night, vi'cw o{ mine-field markin{.
ISSUE FLASHLIGHT
..
Lamp. -
AMBER
GREEN
2 Installation.
Figure 43.09c. Improvised -mine-field lan-e-r!larker, lamp.
NOV
(
FM 5-31
''-',,:_ . :_;;;':_,',,_, "",:: >, __ :,:'_:':_"::' >:_ ,.' ':' ';:' ,:' ::-.:::, i;,: _, '-"";_:::' ',-:" .:;,.' ":',:,:.- '_ i""','_,' _,,'_">-: __ :: . .- .,> :,: '::,:->' '
'the gr6und -so drivers, tank. drivers; cali, tria'rk-
ers arid lights clearly. ' '
, d. Converging markers on long pickets are placed at 50-yard'
intervals on the friendly side of the lane. They, should extend a
minimum oJ 150 yards to the rear of the lane opening. At night
green lights or luminous discs are 'mounted on them.
e. The rear mine-field boundaries are marked with long pick-
ets on which batbed wire and white tape are strung for 100 yards, '
on each side of the lane. Standard mine-field marker signs are placed
this fence. '
43.10. CHECKING THE LANE When the lane has been cleared
of mines and and, it is open'ed to traffic, a -pilot
vehicle passes through it to test for any mines which may not have
been discovered. -
43.11. MAINTENANC'E AND TRAFFIC CONTROL A squad
,
from the_ unit which cleared the la'ne remains at the site to mair1tain
markers and to improve the lane. Rigid traffic control is necessary
at each ,lane to regulate speed 'Of vehicJes and to avoid- congestion.
This control is by the higher ,.ammand.
\ ,
/
)
'FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
43.09-43.10-43.11, i
43.12. PRODDINGMETHQDOF MINEFIELD ,BREACHING
a. Oblectlve The prodding method of mine-neld breachihg
is de;igned to c,lear initially an 8-yard later widened to the
" standard 16-yard width, , "
\ b. Method Either a bayonet or. the mille prob, Mi,rhay be
used, .' .' .'
(1) The bayonet is,lnserted 2 to 4 inches in the groulJd at a 45
. angle (fig. 43,12,,),
(2) The mine probeMI, is a 3Y,-foot hollow metal cyIlnder,
ii jointed' at the center, .having a 9-inch steel point at the' lower end,.
When the entire used,. the prqdder stands and holds the
Jrobe in hand (fig. 43.12b), When striking a foreign object,
the 'hollow tube emits a distinctive sound. When the lower half is
used,it used like the bayonet (fig, 43, 12c) .
'.43.12
figure 43.12a. Bayonet used as probe.
1 N9V 1943 FM 541
Fif!ure 43.12b. Probe Ml.
,
43.12c. Probing wi! h lower half of M 1;
FM 5-31 1 NOv 1943
~
0
t
E
t
. ~
."
."
0
" ...
,
J,
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. ~
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..
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..
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1
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0,;
-
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0,;
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\
1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
, ,C.,,' Detachment consists of
officer, prodders Who mark mines -found;
and two lifters. Breaching a 16.yard lane is'", platoon task. The
platoon is divided into the followinKparties:
,.I .' 'i '

Offtcer I OfJleers Men
,
Advance party." ... ' ....... ','"
No.1 prodcl.ing party .. :'
No. 2 prodding party ....... ' .. .
3 prodding party ...... ':, ... .
Supply party ..... , ....... ',' .. ...........
3
10
10
10
6
"Total ................ : ... 1 5 39
Theoflicer in charge of tlte breaching controls all'operatio";s of the
, \' ' - , i
various parties. Usually he is, stationed at the tape. ,
\ " ,_, ,_ J
43.13, PROCEDURE FOR BREACI"lING 'MINE I'IELDBY
PRODDING METHOD (fig. 4q.13)
Personnel Equil'ment

Advance party:
1 officer .
1 noncommis-
sioned officer
,3 men
No. 1 proddfng
party:
1
sioned. officer
(in ,charge)
10 men
I
Eiectricai
... or probes, 1,000.
, yards white tape
in rolls,
nails, 6d:
mine ,markers.
32 mine 'markers,.
nails dr wire,
compass,
. wirf! cutter,

white tape.
Duties
-------
Determines starting and
points for prodding parties
ing gap.
By n'mgnetic azimuth, estaBlishes
and lays'o'ut center tape between
, startirg finishing poinu.,
Disarms antipersonnel mines
along ce:nter line;
Prodders men)', spaced at
intervals with man on
cente.r tape and ,right-flank man
on lane boundary tape, search by
proddiQ,g at a 45
0
arigle, and
mark all mines found;. ,Each
prodder' carries four mine
ers on his belt and several short
pieces or wire in his pocket for
disarmin,g mines.
Liflers (2' men) follow the. prod-
ders, lift' or pull. aU mines, trace
Ottt trip' wires, and ,keep tape
markers: in place. '. '
, . r! '\
Noncommissioned officer in charge
follows 'immediately, in rear of
prodderS, keeps party properly
spaced, maintains direction and,
if assists prodders to
, disarm IJ;lines, and
, lifters to:remove or cut trip wires.
On cross-line' tape party
reserv,e, replacing No., 3
prodding party. '
I fM 5-31 1 NOV 43. ''2-43. 1.:1
p
ersonne E qUlpmen' D t
U lCS .
--c-
No. 2 prodding Same as No. 1 Walks in single file up center- tape
party: proliding party. and prods in right lane, working
1 noncommis-
forward from -cross ,tape (fig.
sionca officer
43.13), and using same praced-
10 men
ure as No.1 prodding party .

On compl,ction, to cross
tap.e and prods forWard in lelt
\
lane.
,
No.3
proddin'g Same as No. i Acts as reserve at Ibase tape until
party: prodding party. No. 1 party has finished its '8-
1 noncommis- yard lane and has returned to
sioried 'officer base tape.
10 men
Then starts prodding to widen lane
cleared by No.' 1 party (fig.
,
43.13), using same procedure as
No.1 party.
Supply party: J White tape, Unloads
- .
and assembles lade-mark-
1 noncommis- nails, 6d, ing
sioned probes.
Checks for mines in converging
6men
' ..
. approaches to gap.
Distributes lane markers.
Acts as reserve for working parties.
43.14. SUPPLIES The supplies needed to clear a 16-yard lane
400 yards long are the following: .
Item
Tape, tracing, white
(spools) .; .... ' ....
Wire pins ....... -..... .
Wire cutters ' ..... --.- ... .
Mine markers .. ..... .
Nails, 6d .... _ ........ .
Wire or' rbpe ......... ,
Sledge hammers ...... .
Lane-marker signs .... .
Lights, amber ..... : ...
Lights, green .. " ..... '; .
Pickets, 6 feet long
(angle-iron preferred) .
Barbed ,wire .......... .
Quantity
,
,
Remarks
2,000 yards . . . .. For taping lane.
100 ... ; ....... For, fastening tape to.ground.
12 pairs .. 1 .... .
50 ........ : ..... .
2 pounds -...... .
200 yards ..... .
4 ............ .
40 ........... .
34 ...........
48 (4 spares) .' .
45 ........... .
For' pullin'g mines.
Lane-marker lights.
Lane-,marker lights.
3,000, yards .... For fencing lane.
43.15. COMPLETION The completed lane is checked,
marked, lighted, and maintained, and traffic contro,l is
as indicated i'.' paragraphs 43.09, 43.10, and 43.11.
43.13-43.14-43.15 1 NOV 194.3
SECTION IV
ROAD AND TRACK CLEARANCE
i
44.01. GENERAL
, " '; 'i. : '.
, \' -
iii. The enemy use of nuisance mines and booby traps along
roaCls and shoulders creates a clearing" problem 'as serious as'
mine-field breaching. '"
b. Every route capable of catryingadvancing units must he
reconnoitered 'and cleared in the shdrtes,t, possible time. Clearing'
routes sufficiently to' get troops forward permits pursuit ahd attack
before the enemy has consolidated his new positions. Clearing roads
completely before they are opened for general traffic prevents heavy
casualties, 'delays', -and serious' traffic
44.02. ORGANIZATION
o. Sirict (r"ffie control is required. It is: essential that the maxi'
mum avalIable personnel work simultaneously at clearing the road,
without interference, in order to finish the task guickly. If men and '
vehicles crowd onto a road before it is rddy for traffic, the rear por-
tion of the road congeited'imd perhaps even the movement
of esserttial equipment prev.et:'ted. ' ,
"
b. Two sets of may be met: :
(l) When(the 'ground on either side oftheroad is open and
of traffic, unit's move forward over the open country, well
off the roacf. In this can be bypassed rapidly, and'
traffic moye, forward while the inain roadway isbeing cleared,. '
(2) When the only mea!)s of getting forward is along the mined
as is riormal in 'rough, mountaino'us country, or where
rivers and valleys are numerims, specially trained mad'clearing de-
tachmentsare deployed simultaneously alo!)g the greatest possible
length of road. In, this case, the, first step is to get the road opened
t9 traffic as rapidly as possible., To do this a specially ,organized
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 44,01-44.02
\
reconnaissanCl; and road.:.surfacc-c1earing detac1ymen('is, used which
reconnoiters rdad rapidly and clears at least a 16-foot "lane 'on
its surfaced portion. For'suggested organization and- procedt.re sec
44.0"2. '---
44.0.3. TACTICAL PROnCTION OF ROADCLEARING PAR
TIES protection is given engineer road-clearing parties by
troops which usually move ahead of them along bypasses.' When
fo'ugh terrain bordering: the road prevents this, thc,.leading road-
clearing detachments move the leading combat troops.
I
44.04. OF CLEARING ROADS
.' ' a. First Stage
(1) Whatever method of clearing is used, the first stage will con-
sist 0[----':' '
(a) Removing sufficient mines; derelict vehicles, and road blocks
, '-, I
to clear, a one-way route. .
(b) Bypassing craters, and finding alternative routes around ob-
stacles possible. .'
(c) Checking crossroads and road junctions for mines and booby
traps.
(d) Widespread and energetic reconnaissance for bypasses to
having to clear the whole road. , ,
. (e) Proper use, 9f standard. mine-warning to warn following
units.
(2) First-stage work often mustbe done by leading units without
engineer assistance; Hence the importante of all-arms
training in mine clearance. '
b. Second Stage The second stage usually handled by en- .
gineers, includes-, ' ,
(1) Clearing road Shollidcrs, improving bypasses, filling in craters,
and moving derelict vehicles dear of the roadway.
(2) Completing the checking of crossroads and road"junctions for
mines. I
(3) Clearing marking safe 'turn-offs from road to unit dispersal
areas. . /.) ,.
(4) Clearing 20-foot strip, which should inClude the line of tele-
phone poles, 'on either side10f road so vehicles ,can halt off it in
safety. ' . '
(5) Fencing and marking all mine fields alongside road from which .
mines have not been cleared". I
.
44.05. CLEARING DERELICT VEHICLES, GUNS, AND OTH.
ER IMPEDIMENTA OFF ROADS Wrecked vehicles, guns, and
miscellaneous equipment reduce the effective width of the road and
44.02-44.03- 44.04-44.05 1 NOV 1943 FM 541
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,FM.5-31
1,NOV.1943
slow up traffic. AV units must make a point of. clearing all road .ob-
structions as quickly as possible. Precautions against booby traps
must be taken.'
44.06. CLEARING ROAD SIjRFACES Of MINES BY AN EN
GINEER RECONNAISSANCE DETACHMENT
L Speed is of primary importance.' Mine detection is primarily
visual, confirril.ed by checking with it mine detector where necessary.
The party travels in 74-ton and dismounts "to" w,ork on fobt
when mines arc numerqus. The reconnaissance leads,
lowed by a mine-detection and pulling party. Mines usually are
pulled out with a 50-yard length of wire or rope. With this h.ethod
'.time is not spent looking for booby traps'cormected to,them. If the,
enemy has disengaged to any appreciable distance, a succession of
clearing parties, leapfrogging one another, may be used 'further to'
speed the operatien.
b. Derelictvehides, some of which wili have been booby-
trapped, arc towed off the road with a 50-yard, \yire ro'pe, operated
if possible by the winch on an inclosed armored vehicle, This vehicle
should accompany the leading engineer rdad-clearing party: It is'
also for extra,protection iIi casc- of ambush by the 'enemy.'
c. The detachment must have long-range radio communka-
tion over the command radio' net 'with the engineer battc;t.lion- and
on the division traffic-control point, This willpe the normal methoq
of reporting 'progress. Radio security is maintained by the use of
code.
44.07. WHERE TO SEARCH FOR MINES'
a. Pot holes or soft spots in thesu;faced roadway are carefully
c:hecked with a mine de,tector, 'and, if, have beery
encountered, also are probed.
b. The junction ,of the road surfacing and shoulder
should be given' special attention" sOfm:!times minf7si are in"!
serted under the edges of the road ,,_
c. The whole area of the shoulders is swept with mine
tors, A portable detector mounted ahead of .a 74-ton Il.ehicie
been used for this -purpose. "
d. Mines buried qeeply in the road shoulders are difficult to
detect, and they may explode only after the passage of numerous
vehicles has compacted the earth over them. Careful
ing is necessary to locate them.
e. The 20-foot strip on' each side of the road normally is
searched visually,; suspicious are thoroughly probed and
checked with electrical detectors.
44.05-44.06-44.07 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
/
'j

-, ' .. '.
44 DISPOSAL OF MINES
'. a. The method of of mi'nc;.; i;.; a command- function.
All disarmed and hand li(ted \\;,hen time permits. Wry_en
speed is)Jllportant mines are puHed at once. The resulting craters
are filled in.
b. Lifted mines arc defuzed stacked in a place,
out of the way of traffic: Mine:. which hftve been by blast
are destroyed by explosive charge;.;, eithe'r in ,place, or 'when puIled
off the ___foad. If possible.,;" mines and fuzes bp kept out of
direct sunlight.
44.09. CRATERS, DEMOLISHED BYPASSES
q. Craters and demolished bridges are fa\forite places for lay
irig antipersonnel. mines. will often be encouptered .if!ide and
around "the edges of craters. Carefully groups of mines
frequently are laid where bypasses are likely to be built.
b. To.,at'oid 'nuisance mines, are made well clear of
craters. The places where the bypass leaves and returns to the main',
road are carefully checked. Previqus vehicle tt'acks not assumed
to be safe ..
c. Bypasses are clearly marked to warn trafflc in time to reduce
" speed. A normal arrangement is to standard warning signs to
point to the entrance. Both ,sides 'of the bypass track are fenced off
and clearly_marked with -tape.' '
44.10. DEALING WITH VARIOUS TYPES OF OBSTACLES
o. 'Vhen wire fence are found ac.rOS$ roads they
, should- be -examined carefully with trip wires
laid- underneath the obstacle. One method of- procedure is to pull
the fence with' 50 yards of ,cable to a \;,ehfCle. Then
clear away the remaining debris and sC1Jrch for !pines underneath.
b. When .Jar oil drums, and siMilar, objects are found
r?ad, roll them clear with ropes. E}xami'ne road
they stood- for mines and booby traps. ,
c. When clearing derelict vehicles-,from ro<,!-ds, first examme
the shoulder of the road where the vehicle is goipg 'to be pulled oft.
releasing its br<.lke, -exa:rninc for b'Qoby- traps. Then
pull --the vehicle clear with a \-\lire cable the winch of an ar
Inored- vfhicle.
44.11. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS IN. CLEARING ROADS
a. Spe--eial care be taken to crossroads' and .
junctions for antitank) antipersonnel, a,nd nonrnetal1k m,ines. Other
likely places for-nuisance mines a,rc sharp cqrnc;s and defiles, obviou$
turnout parking-places, and arcas',arotind Often hOllSf'S-
\
FM 5-31 \ 1 NOV "'-043 44.0844.09 -44. 11
I
are booby-trapped.
/
ib'. suspicious' of areas pear any' unusual roadside "markt;':fs
such as !itakcs and boxes. Milestones fnd eve,n gtaves sometimes -are'
sown with antipersonnel mines. ' '
c:.Dxy; river beds under demoli;hed briciges, andtqe ap-
on either side o( the' bJ;idge, are- place's where
mines arc found. ,;' . , - . ' , '
d. Abandoned airports usually are .thickly"sowll with1all types
of mines, and must be examined carefully before use. Fresh vehicle <
, -; " ,
tracks running aimlessly the ground on all' airfield .may indicate
mine laying.' ,
44.12. INDICATIONS AND WARNINGS OF MINES Some
signs have already explained. IOthers :- _,_,: _ '.
a. Disturbed':groun'd," or - earth
rain.
b. Empty :nine hidden- in cell
1
a,rs
3
_ cti:lveT'ts,
and similar spots. If found, they must be. reported quickly. .
c. Pickets or for no-
d. Traces of re'moved fence', odd or
; wire, or pickets.
e. roekpiles;
44.13. ROADREPAIREQUIPMENT
, , ' _' "_',"" " I." "
a. Speed in or cratered roads dC}J,end:s largely
upon whether heavy equipment, sl.lch as is ,av.ailable,."and
h'ow fast it moved The bulldozer for"
filling in raI11ping embankments,_ ancf for
and must be :mov;bd
l
far' forwarq possible so it ca)).', start;work
v.:ithout delay. )\ special traflicjPriority should begiven
equip!llent of type. Rapid m?vement of-.,Tquipmept
is, obtained through,close li_aison between the the 'pro-
vost marshal. Road discipline and control of -traffic .required,
especially bypasses.
b. Spejial is to' protect 'heav1y -its
operators against from mines,. Ar:inored 'are
Working sites are searched carefully for miI;1es
work begins. -' '--
Cpntinuous( heavy equipmept operation under ,front.:.line'
conditions requires fr.equent reliefs for operators. Each bulldozer;'anq!
similar machine needs at least, t\yo full' ct:ews. for any
consIderable time -at full capacity, 24 hours a requires three
crewS{
,
44.12-44.13 NOV 1943 FM 5-31-'
\
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I.
I
'-" '
UL""'" a 'operati6riJ
an- efficient rapiD net is to transmit progress reports regu-
larty to tr-affic. -Telephone c6mmunication betwcefl the op-
posite end$ of bypasses arouI1d spet;ial such as eraters
'Clssists greatly, in rpgulating traffic and
ing c-ongestion, ,; \. ,/
44.15. PROTECTION FROM AIR ATTACK Special local air
protection be, requested at, j'mportant places to,prevent
interference' \yith the - clearing .of espedally' demolished
bridges and bypasses around craters.
, \ 'I"
SECTI()N V
I
DELIBERA TE CLEARING OF
MINE FIELDS
45.01'. 'GENERAL . The deliberate clearance of mine fields nOr-
m-ally is done. after- the battie" area has m.oved forward and the clear'-\
ing troops arf. not under fire. 'corps, whose area -the
fields are located desig
l1
ates the mipe fields t6 be cleared and the
priority- of dearance.
IN MI.NE-FIELD CLEARING
o. Mine' fi.el(;Is"- ordered cleared are divided into the followiilg
, main types; .
(1) of enemy 'mine fields on avail-
ai>le other th'lrl reports from troops who have passed through them.
(2) Clearance of mine fields originally laid byourtroops btlt which
'were in enemy or were entered by the enemy.
1 NOV 1943 44.14;"44.15...-45.01-45.02
(
,
(3) 'of mine 'fields laid by our t_roop's i"n: nO' .
exist.
of mine fields laid by our troops on, which"records
are available and which were not entered by the enemy. . ' ,
b. Mine' fields to aqillery fire or aerial. bombing
have certain areas where .the mines may be eff-ected" by blast,. ,In
these areas the mines invariably are destroyed' in place and will be
handled only when absolutely m;cessary." , (
45.03. MINEFIELD CLEARING PRINCIPLES
a. The follo1"ing prindples apply to allmine.fieldclearing:
Everything possible must be done to clear. all the mines, . (1)
(2)
(3)
Speed is a secondary c.onsideratiori' tb the.' safety of personnel.
Clearance of rpines normally will take place 'luring daylight.
(4) Reporting the of a mine field ,is the responsibility of
the unit clearing the ,.field. Upon c'ompletion of the clearing opera-
tions, reports hnmediately ar1 made to the corps ord:ering the',
clearing.
45.04. ORGANIZATION FOR DELIBERATE MINEFIELD
CLEARING The following is, the suggested
Ibr the deliberate clearing of mine fields. '
. Officer
Noncommissioned
Officers
I
M,n
Officer 'jn cha;ge. , : ! , , , , , . ;' ,
Advance party ... " ....... , "
Detecting. party ...... , .... , .. "
1
I,,' .
.. , .. , ....... ': '6" "1'
, {' , 6
Detecting party .... :., .. ,.,., .... , .. '. ... 1 6
Detecting party , .... " ,I , ". 1 6
Clearing party .':, . ;; ....... .. . ',., .' .....
I " 14
)_i_,,-_,,-. '
,
Total .. , ..... " ... ' , , ... ' .. , I
5
i 38
45.05. PROCEDURE FOR CLEARING l)irst,enemy mine fields:
second, friendly mille fields which have been' entered :by th,e'
emy; third" friendly 'JTline fields'on"which no
records exist. .,
Equipment Duties

Officer in charge Map, lerisatic
'" c'ompass, all
available
'matiOll on fi'eld.
Designates',locati9n of field.
Directs work of rntire .pi.atoon.
Submits .iep.ort: to' corps headqu-ar
,ters wl:j.icij includes '.location,
sketch, of 'fiei,d, tot.al.'number of
mines 'and, nuinber of
mines recovered,
45.02-45.03-45.04-45.05 1. NQV 1943
: \
\
!
\
Party:
1 non_commis-
sioned officer
2 detector men
2 tape men'
2 supply mcn/.
Detecting Party
No, 1:
1 noneb_mmis-
sioned officer
6men
Equipment
Map, -Iensatic .
compass; 2 mine
. detectors,
tracing tflpe,
/
3 mine detectors,
3 shovels, mine
markers, safety
pins.
Duties
Locate, and mark, safe to
field.
'Locate and fape r.dges ,o( each sec-
tion in each .belt. of field.
If possible, _ ascertain pattern of'
each section and pass informa-
tion to detecting party.
When a section is marked with
tapes the detecting party starts
locating mines, Detector operat-
ors ,work down, the length of
each section and not acrc1ss as
in breach,ing, Sweep entire sre-
tion overlapping a. yards' beyond
boundaries. ','
Nos . .],' 2, an-d 3 operate electrical
detectors, each sweeping 8 f('ct
of'frontage and working in cehe-
Ion at- 30 yard intervals.
Nos, 4, 5,"and .6 follow Nos. 1, 2,
-and' 3, respectively, uncovering
and marking all AT mines and
oisarming and marking -all
personnel, Illines, Also lay any
ad,lditional longitudinal tapes in
deep 'sections' to ,assist in main-
taining' direction, Relieve detec-
tor operators :at 20-minute inter-
v-als,
Personnel Duties Equipment

Detecting .Party
No.2:
Same as No. 11 Same as No, 1,
Detecting Party
No;-3'
Same as No, 2 Same as No, 2,
Clearing Party:
1.noncommis-
sioried officer
14men
Safety pius, rope
Or wire, electric
detector, TNT,'
primacord, and
electric or non-
electric firing
equipment.'
Same as No, 1.
Same as No.2.
Nos. i-7 D'isarm main fuzes in AT
mines and remove "all antiperson-
nel mines as 'soon as a section' is
sw.ept completely by detecting
party. "
Nos. 8-14 Attach short ropes or
wires -to top of each disarmed
mine. Tie these short ropes In
groups of three to
ropes.,
When all mines are disarmed and
tied,-'entire "party'moves to cover
and pulls mines from
holes. Wait 30 seconds after last
mine is ptilled before moving.
No. 1' checks- each' -mine' hole' with
electric detector. Nos,-)-14 de-
fuze or otherwise prepare serv
iet'able mines for transporting
FM 5"";31
1 NOV
45.05"
\
Personnel
. I
Duties
'stock them in piles
,'he picked.'up later',1)y truck' Un-
'Servicea15le mines should be
; '" -a pile- anp.. e?'l'ldded.
N OT_F;':, . Mines ,should, be exploded
in place if :field has ,been sub-
jecte,d. to' blast'. I
45.06; PROCEDURE FOR CLEARiNG ACCURATELY RE'
CORDED FRIENDLY FIELD WHICH HAS NOr BEEN ENl'ERED
BY THE ENEMY .
Personnel Equipment DUlles

OtflC('t in charge:
Advance party:
Same as
par.45.05
Detecting party
No.' I: '
Same as
par. 45.05
Detecting party
No.2:
Same as para-
,graph 45.05.
Same' as para-
graph 45.05 ..
Samt! as para-
graph 45.05.
'Same as par, 45.05
" -'i
indicates
to detc,ct6r ,operato'rs 'the location
-of" antiJ?ersonnel
, _, \", ",J ,j
Cooidiriatc "d,etector,:' ,parties opera-
. tions. " , ' .
!'los., -'1 .2;, 'and 3 sweep ,down a
'I' mine :.row _locating all. AT and
antip'ersonnel mines,
,N(js . .-4; and, 6. ',Same. as par.
45.05.
\ ' Same as above' Same as il;!:JOve.
Same a,
above.
,
Detecting party
No. 3-: I
Same as above Same' as above.
Clearing party:
Same as . .,
\ par, 45.05
Same' as,par.,
,
as aboye;
..
officer"
party and marks all mines whicp
" are bopby',trapped. "
Entire"party,'disarms and 'lifts all
mines including those booby
trapped: ",',
Mines are for ,
ing' and !ltacked.
/45.07. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS IN MINE. FIELD' CI.EAllNG
Tre following' safety preca.utions will qe observed:
a. If available, itll personnel in; mine or are.is
45.0S-45.06-45.0,?,
FM .5,-31
b. If a belt contairts "S" IDifle!i pattern ,: will hot
be regular. When the ,rear edge' of it field is , " with a 1m,: trip
'wire S mines may be 3}ards this wire -and fhe ground should :,'
be swept. ' '" ,. ,
It should assutried that all!\. T are liable to be:
arid there should be ,no walking except in swept'
lanes. . , \ '
1 .",,'
d. Mines', and fU2:es' are separately and removed in
separate vehitles. For best destructiori mines are stacked' on-edge in
- convenient of not more 20 mines. F'uzes are made as .'
safe as possible when rePloved from mines. . ,
e'. Even in the presence "of crater$ it is that'
the gaps in a regular pattern of a minefield are' clear unless bits of
detorated milles definitely' i'lentified .. spots should be
marked out and searched properly until it is absolutely certain they
are free of mines: . , . :' .'
i', _' I'
,f. Lanes swept d,!ring battle &hould be swept again even if they
were used by traffic:
9. a traCk or road ,'crosses a mine !Jelt the bordering
area \,iii! be swept for scatt'ered mines for at least 150 yards on
each side of the field. '
, h.: Before/ sweeping, it is ath"is'able. to' Durn standing or
long ,grass:, where S- mines with trip wites are spspec-ted to exist.
S are unaffected by bur,ni'ng but antitank 'JIline& may be de-
tOllated and others made .unsafe by partial melting of the shear
wires, . The fire ml;lst ',be by cutting a _ lane around the
ground to be burned or by )having beaters at 'a ,safe distance (300
yards) down wind. .
H.awk,ins grenrqes which 'h<;lve fOf'any length
of time are particularly sensitive. They should be <!estroyed in place.
Never attempt to lift or defuze Sc'attercd often" are
, found and \dangerotl-s in grass.
, ' ' ,
j. Befote attempting to saivage ,a vehicle in it'. mine field ascer-
tain from the regular pattern of the belt whether there should be
an un'exploded mine or mjnc-s unper the vehicle"; In this case the
detector will ,and n: is to,locate the
mineby prodding under the vehicle. . ,.
k. Sandbag illl vehicles mines fr'lm swept fields.
, I '- j, _ ': '!, '/ ", :,' :
I. All buildjngs, abandoned enemy dugouts, wells,
blocks, bridges,and the like should be checked
for booby traps.
FM 5-3) . 1 NOV 1943 45.07
........................
m . . Assume all gullies and covered allproaches to old enemy'
positions .contain' unmarked Sjriines and ,booby-.traps.
n.' Sometimes a buriecl ;-'egg" -grenade is used' to boobx .. trap
. {, wire fences marking mine fields. The'cord Of the grenade is attached
I tcqhe wire ir the fence, therefore c!leck all wires for traps before
removal.
. . o. Booby-trappipg devices may be with a 4%, to 7:sec-
ond delay igniter. seconds to before collecting mines
after withdrawal. .
p. After mines, and ftre lifted keep them out
. ofthesun. '.
(
/
)
-45.07 1 -NOV 1943 \
FM 5-31
/
,
,
. ,
I,
\
AM'E RICA N
MIN ES AND . F UZ E S
('
/ I
,
, ..
/
I \
c'
(
, .
f
.
MINE
T
4 IN.
1
. T;y'PE. A"titank
COLOR. Olive-drab, yellow, or olive-drab with yellow band and
bottom .
. CASE. Steel
WEIGHT. JO%.pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 6 pounds cast TNT,
EFFECT. Disables ,tanks
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943'
51.01':"a
U. S. ANTITANK MINE MlAl'
EXPLOSIVE
COMPAII)'MENT
FUNCTIONING
1 'Pressure of 500 pounds ciirectly on fuie head, or 250 pounds
on edge of spider, depresses' outer sieev,e; cutting' pins
aligning holes in oUlfr sJeey" with steel Q::lls lodged in
mner sleeve. \ - .
2. Steel balls ;>.re forced into holes In sleeve ,releasi;'g
striker. : . '
I ,_ '
'3. Striker 'thus freed, driven 'Qy striker spring, sets off percus-
/ sian cap detonator-bo9ster-mai!?-, )
RiE.U5E
Examine 'and fllze carefully for signs.of rusting,' corrosion,
or damage 'to min,e case 'or fuze assembly. If there is,'ho
sign' of damage of misuse the mine tnay Qe to Qe in
cOI)dition for re-use."' , , _
$1.01-1> I NOV 1943 FM 5-3,1'
\
"
/
, INSTALLING AND ARMING
To assemble .mine
1. Remove spider.
To, lay mine on 5urfa"e of
ground'
2! Place fuze in cavity of
mine body.
1. Place mine on gro'l;md . .
2. Remove safety fork.
3. Hook two legs of spider
under rim.
3. Conceal mine with loose,
brush or other material.
4. Pass other two legs of"
spirier through notches and ./
turn spider one-eighth of a turn.
TO BURYrMINE, WITH SPIDER UP
,
1. Remove thin layer of sad and place on a sandbag.
2. Dig hole, placing spoil in sandbag.
3. Remove safety fork. .
'4. Place mine in cover. Cover must be loose over spider .. .
5. Place mine in hole.
6. Fill in, with spider at least 74 inch above original ground
lev'el
,
and pack ~ a r t h arou,nd sides of mine,'
. 7; Replace sad, and complete camouflage .
. ' ,,' -'" ' ./ <-':,' -
'TO BURY MINEWITH SPIDER DOWN
1. Ref!lo"e thin layer of sad and place it on a sandbag .
. 2. Dig hole, placing spoil in sandbag.
,3. Remove safety fork from mine.
4. p'lace mine in cover._Cover must be ''loose over'spider.
S . Pl<:;tce mine. in hole, spid'cr dowh, with u p p ~ r surface not
more 'than 1 inch bela, ground surface.
6. Replace spoil to .original ground.Ievel.
7. Replace sad, and camouflage. '
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
51.01-c
. ,
U. S. ANTITANK . .MINE M1Al
\.
DISARMING ANI! REMOVING \
1'. Cut away cover to reveal ..
2; Replace safety fork, if ftizeis 1Iot damaged.
3. Chec)dor booby-trapping devices. .
4. Lift mine, . .
CAUTION
, _, I, , ,
If I)linefieJd has beep in enemy's hands,treatit a,enemy field.
If field has been subjected to Qr lfsafety f<irk does not go
on 'easily, _' d? nbt attempt to oil"Jork, Qr- to -remove mine
by hand'. Attach a 50-yard or wire; drag mine to safe
place, 'with ,explosives; or; -destr,oy
DEFUZING
'After disarming aljd lifting mine,removespiderand lift
from cavity.' '" .' . , "
AND TRANSPORTING
'- I r, " . " :_ .,' ,-, '"
Mines are packed in: a wooden -case holding five mines, five,
, fuzes, and fiv'e covers. Ca'se is;: divided -int9 six.
by separators which 'can be removed and used as bases for, the
mines in-soft 'areiin"co:mpartment at one'cnd 6fcase.
One mine 'is "in c'lch of the'other cpmpartments; Separators caq
be m.oved to .. other positions -ill: case, dividing intQ five equal
compartments for carrying Ijlines, Safety'>rks always a,re
left on fuzes during transporting and handling.ICase measures
about 10 by 10% by 26 inches. Loaded with five mines and
fuzes, case weighs 71 pounds. When mines, are
without packing in wooden cases 'place on edge.
51.01-d t NOV' 1943 FM, 5-31
.
. ?
PRESSURE CAP _ ~ ......
LOCKING BALL ~ __ ,-,.J
PERCUSSION CAP __ ..;...J
BOOSTER CHARGE __ ..,;..J
EXPLOSIVE
COMPARTMENT _-,-..;........J
\
STRIKER SPRING,
DETONATOR
': " i ,-' ""
The a n t i t a ~ k :mine M (, the qrlginaJ model, is rio "longer' being
mamifa"tured or iSsued, It is handled exactly the same as the
antitank rhine MIA!. ' ", " " '
FM 5-'31 1 NOV:I.943
51.02-cl,-
U. S.ANTITANK MINE M,l
I
,
,
SAFETY
\
4
IN" --...,---...,.01
difference between two. m,o.dels is that: III the
,mine 1 the booster is an:' part of the fuze; in the mirlC
MIA! the. booster isa sef>aratepart.
PACKII'fG AND
,
.,
5'.02-1> FM 5-31:
"I
\
!
, )
1
TYPE. Antitank
'COLOR. Olive.drab
CASE. Nonmetallic'"
TOP VIEW
I
WEIGHT. Approximately i4.5 pounds
, ,
ElC,PLO,IVE. 5.6 pounds, tetrytol orTNT
EFFECT. tanks, dejtroys vehicies
i FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
51.03-0
'U. S. ANTITANK MINE fJl5)
BOOSTER
. ,'I
WOOQEN ANVIL'
i. . I
COMPARTMENT "
BOTTOM FUZE,
PETONATOR
FUNCTIONING , ',"
1. A, ' pressure of 275 to 425 pounds causes striker, bearing on
\ - - , -,'. ,
wooden' anvil,' to break _glass, vial 'contllining chemical.
2. Mixture of chemical in glass vial'lvith chen\ical substance
, surrounding the vial causes' flash. ' _ _.
3. Flash created by mixture of chemiCals sels off detonalor--J
booster-main: ',i -;',' -.
51.03-b ' NOV 1943 FM 5-31
\
\,
AND ARMING
1, Unscrew from
base of" fuze and' exami"ne fuze
to see .that it' -is "not broken or ;', i
otherwise l..tnserV'iceable.
, ,
. 3. Place mine in with
its surface noi more thari i inch
below oI,"iginal grollqd
Remove safety riflg.
2., Remove a,dhe'sive 'cover
from fuze c,a:vity and'see cavity
is free .of forelgri material.
sert fuze into cavity and' sCrew
\ightby hand. . .
4. Screw fuze tight by hand.
$. Pack earth around sides
, Of mine, arid' caino'uflage.
{ FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943 51.03-c
/
U. S. ANTITANK MINE M5'
DISARMING
l. Check mine for bOQby-trappingdevices.
\ ','
2. Lift mine. . .. ...
DEFUZING
1. Remm\e Juze from mire.
2. Replace safety cap on of fuze.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Mines are packed in a wooden case holding f01,1r -mines and
four fuzes. Case is divided -into four compartments by 'remov-
able separators. ,One fuze" in in,dividual container, ,and one
mine, are packed in each Of the four compartments. Loaded
with four mines and fuzes, case weighs 87 pound,s. -It measures
about 12 by 13 by 26 incbes.
REUSE ".
Mines may be re-used number of tiines provided the fuzes
and mines are not damaged; and .do riot show evidence' 'of
deteriora tien.
SPACE /
\
,
r, NOV 1943 FM 5-31
U.S.iNTIPERSONNELMINE M2Al
61h,IN.
COMBINATION
FUZE MI
BASE, I
Ior-" ---'--- 5110 IN . -:-___ ~ _ _ : - - - I .
TYPE. Antipersonnel fragmentation
,-
FUZE TUBE
I '"
COLOI!'. Both tubes, olive-drab; base flange, black. with yellow
marking
CASE. Steel
WEIGHT OF S.HELL',3 pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 0.4 pound
, ,. .
./
EFFECT.' Casualties to most personnel within Hi.,Yards, dangerous
to 159 yards. "['" '.' '
\ ,. ,'., '..' ,
u. M2Al
PRESSURE CAp
PUU RING'
STRIKER SPRING
ri------- STRIKER
i .SHELl ----'-
,PERCiJSSI()N CAP

,...---". FLASH TUBE'
FUNCTIONiNG, .".. .. '. .. ... '
of 20 pouri(\s 011 pressure cap, oipull of 3 to 6
" . J'. " .
2. driven by spring, sets off percussion cap,: which
pr9pelling charge. . .. "
a.Explosion "f prdpelliIlg charge ejects shell from tube and,
same, til!le, delay fuze in base of
4 . shell is 6. t08 feet from tube, </elay fuze detonates
,explosive)n'hell, thr,owing fragments in all ditections.
INSTALLING AND ARt.,lINcf ' ,
TO ASSEMBLE .... , .. ,. ,. ... ' ..... ,.'
1.'.!'e;tfuze by testing safety pin for free' when
.. is .
,
2. screw ,fuze, ini place.
,
TO INSTALL WITH'rRIP WIRES ,
1. Place -mine ind,;hole 'so of fuze' barely pro-
jects above graun., surface, and pack dirt -around minco
2. Install trip by attaching them first to anchor stakes
and then to ,ring,' ','
3. Remove screw -fr9m fuz'. _ ...
4 .. Place cord safety' pin in position cohvcnierit for t'f'-
,1. Place mine in so top of pressure cap' i, ,about V4 inch
'below ground surtace, and' pack dirt around and above mine'
up to level of screw,,' ' " ',',' '
2. Place cord safety 'in pos,ition 'convenient Tor rc-
,'I maval, and locking ,screw.
3 . Complete and, .of -mine.
\
pin and. locking
trip 'wires:. ,'_ I
Chec/< fo;' booby traps and lift niine.
-, ' " .
PRESSURE INSTALLATION
',. pressure ,
2. Insert safety pin and locking screw.
3. Check fo;' booby traps and lift mine.
\
DEFUZING .,i .' .... .. ' , .
After and 'hftmg, remove fuze from mUle and .:r;oe-
place cover. Return mine \ and fuze- to .ofiginal
package.' !,' .
PACKING ANDtRAI'!.S:P.ORTING '. '. . .' .
"Each mine i!( packed in 'paper carto
ll
also contain-
ing one conibinatlQn fuze without base and: one spool of four
26-foot lengths of trip wire. Ten contairiers are 'packed in
wooden box about 10 by 13 by 32 inches, weight, 93 pounds.
RI:.USE .' " .. ' ,,' ," , !
Mine may bere'used anY'illui:tber Of times if damaged or I,
Do-not' use mines if either firing base
percussion cap;:, or cap covering tube, is .
release ring.yvhen both safeties' are not iIi poSition.
as a ,quarter-turn release firing pin:
..... .. ....
I,
'I
TYPE. Antipersonnel
COLOR . . 8live-drab
CASE. Cast iron
WEIGHT. 9.
1
6 pound;
" -; \ " ,- -:, ' :-
U. ANTIPERSONNEL MINE M3
. I . .,
EXPLOSIVE. 0.9 pound flaked TNT
EFFECT. to allpersomlel within 10 yards. Dallgerous up
to 'i00 yards.
U. S. ANTIPERSONNEL MINE M3
'\
....... j,- SAFETY PIN
LOCKING SCREW
FUZE BASE
DETONATOR
(NON-ELECTRIC, CAP)
\
FUZE WELL
-f
CAST IRON
'CASE
FUNCTIONING
1. Pull of g 6 pounds on p;'ll ring, pr pressure of 20 pounds
on pressure cap, rele'ases'striker. .
2. _ diiveil.<by sp_ring" fires pe,rcur;slon cap.
3. Flash', from percllsiio'n cap, detortates nonelectric cap
',' ',_ J
4. Detonation ofnonelectriGeap explodes high-explosive filler
,in mIne,. throw,ing fragments all directions,. /'
\'"
WITH TRIP WIRES
1. . Test fuze by testing safety
pin for free movement' when
screw is -removed. '
2. Remove plastic plug from
one cap well by using wrench
packed with mines and SCrew iIi
fuze' with nonelectric cap at-
tached. .
..
FQR PRESSURE OPERATION
3 .. Tie mine to stake.
4. Install loose trip wires by
attaching them _ fi,rst tiD anchor
.stake, and/then to gull ring of
fuze. '
5., Remove locking, screw
from fuze.
6. Camouflage installation.
7. Remove safety pin.
mine
gr(lUnld level. \
hole with top, .of pressure cap just below
. Piace safety' pin.in place convenient for te'
moval, and reinove locking screw from fuze. .-
4. Plac,! pressu.re board to bear 01' pressure cap. I
5. .cover a:q9. camouflage. ,,-, ,I"
6. Remove safety pin bypulliI!gon string attached to it.
'. . .
U. S. ANTIPERSONNEL' MINE M3
DISARMING AND REMOVING
TRIP-WIRE INSTALLATION
1. Replace'safety pin and locking screW.
2,. 'Disconne"ct trip '
3 .. Lift niine. .
PRESSURE-ACTUATED INSTALLATION
l. Remove. board.' .
2. Replace safety pin. and locking screw .
. 3 . Lift mine. . ..
DEFUZING
.
. .
After .disarming and remc,wing, 'fuze" from mine and'
replace plastic plug covering cap well. Return both mine and
fuze -to original c'onta.iriers.
PACKING ANDTRANSPORTING'
Six mines 'combimttion fuzes M 1- nonelectric caps'
attachedare pa?ked in wooden case Weighing 72 pounds when
loaded and measuring about 9 by 9 by 18 inches. Fuzes are
contained: in -individual) sealed, cylindrical, fiber containers,
pa'eked in compartments at one end -of Case also, contains
wrench for removing.- plugs in mines,'- and six 26-Mfoot
spools of trip Cases are marked "Olive-drab" or "Sand
color" to indicate coloI' Or. wire packed there'in.,
RE.USE
\ -
Mine may be re-used any number- of times if not
or damaged. . ..
(
CAUTION
Never rot"ate pull ring. when safeties are removed," for as little
as, a quarter-turn may_,release firing pin. :" ;,'",
SPACE FOR NOTES
-..... .. ...
r' '
)
, \
.\
, ,
PRES$URE

TYPE.
COLOR. Olive-drab
l ".
CASE. All?y metal
POSITIVE
PIN
. EMPLOYMENT. In antipersonnel minei and booby traps.'
FM 5-31
:.,ti,
I. NOV 1943 53.01-0
\
U. S. PRESSURE FUZE M1Ai
STANDARD BASE
(
PERCUSSION CAP
POSITIVE
SA.FETY PIN
. STRIKER - __
STRIKER SPRING
/
,

FUNCTIONING
KEYHOLE. SLOT
'J,
'\
1. Pressure. of 20 or more pounds on pressure' cap c o ~ p r ~ s s e s
trigger spring and J:>ushestrigger pin into barrel. .
2. When enla.ged portion of keyhole slot in trigger pin is in
position, striker "is released.
3. Strlker, driven by striker spring, fires ,percussion cap.
In. 11._"-.
\
U. PRESSURE FUZE M1Al
TESTI'NG
1. Rerp,ove invert base 'so .projection is inside case, facing
striker. "-
2 . Remove safety clIp and pdsitille safety piri.. , '
3; Apply.pressure to pressure cap. Striker should strike base
, sharply. ' , .
4. Recock by pushing striker with unsharpened pencil or small
at sru:ne time pressing' on pressure -cap so spindle can pass
.thr()ugh larger part of keyhole.
S. Release pressure on pressure cap to allow smaller paft of
keyhole t.o reduced- section of striker spindle. ; -
6. Replace safety pin and clip. "
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1 .' Remove base.
2. ' Place fuze on firm, flat base.
If adjustinent rod 1S needed" screw It )nto, pressure cap"
Adjust by screwing up adjustment rod snugly object,
then back off' turn.- If three-prong_ attachment' is to .
be used, 'screw it cap. -
4. Remove cardboard protector tube arid crimp a U. S. non-
electric cap onto base. I
5. Screw base to fuze.
6. Insert cap in charge. When detonating coid is used, tape
orie end of it to cap and run other end to charge. '
FM5-31 1 NOV 1943
I
U. S.PRESSURE 'FUZE M1Al
7. Remove ;'afety clip. It should pull Qff casily. A'sudden
jerk may cause fuze to fir,e. If safety dip does not pull off easily,
; check installfltion to make sure there is no pressure on pressure
cap., " " I!', '"
8. Rerriove. pin'. If cl'oes "not c;ome out' striker!
head probably has fallen and' 'is' pressing against it. Unscrew
base and check mechanism, If' defective, dis'card fuze and use
another. '. _, " ,I- ,
, DISARMING ('
safety !lin and safety clip.
DEFUZING; \
1. After repladng safely pin and clip, detach 'fuze,
charge. ", "
2 .. ',Unscrew /and destroy base or store hi', safe': place. Do not
to remove-,cap from.base.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING '.' ,
( Five fuzes, complete' with percussion caps, are packed in a box. '
fuIrbox weighs 1 pound 14 ounces. Size 5% by 4r:i by 1%
I inches.' ,
1,
RE.USE
. Fuzes be' r'e-usd any' number of, time's if }r:;,st.s prpve them
, : .. de.fectivc: l( cap has and device is 1;0
used again, remove}ited and\ pr'ess 3
cap firmly into place. Clean and lubricate fuze before re-u;ing
tq insure prqper. '
-., ...... u .........
! I
\ '
("'.
! .
/
. \

';--'--,--_ PULL RING
HEAD
'5----,--""-- SAFETY-PIN
POSITIVE SAFETY-PIN.-;--
)
STANDARD ''''''.r
TYPE. Pull fuze
COLOR. Olive-drab
. CASE. Alloy. metal
EMPLOYMENT. In "Jtipersonnel I)1ines and booby traps
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Five ;fuzes, complbte ....... with 'percussion -caps -in their bases, and
two BO-foot spools of trip wire, packet! in watertigbt cardboard
box, aliout 5 by 5 by 1 Y, inches. Loaded; weighs 171\ pounds .
.M 5-31 1 NOV 1943
. ~ 3 . 0 2 - a
\, \ '
U. S. PULL FUZE Ml
5. Anchor charge or w,ith anchor corp.. ' '
6. Install loose trip wire, anchO'r end first.
7., Remove heac! safety' pin. If it does not pull out eaiily
probably trip wire is too tight. Check. If pin still binds, re-
move base and check mechanisrn. If defective, discard fuze and
use another. ',', -, . / '
8. Remove positive safety pin. It should come out ea!ily;if
not, striker probably has fallen and is pressing on it. Un-
screw base and chec.k mechanism. If ,defective, "discard fuze
and us: another .. :
DISARMING
1. Insert both salety pins.
2. Disconnect'trip/Wi'res, ..
DEFUZING,
1. Remove fuze and capfrom charge., \ ' '
2. Unscrew base and destroy it, or store in safe place. D.o not
attempt to remove :cap from
REUSE I
Fuzes may be te-useci any number of times if tests show they
are 'not, defective. 'If 'petcussion cap has been and fuze is
to be used again, remove cap' and press new No.3 cap tightly
into Clean and lubricate, before re-use.
1 NOV 1943
FM 5-31'
(

,
Sl\fEtY NA.IL
TYPE} Release fuze
COLOR.l.jnpaintecl
CAS E. Alloy 'metal
\LATCH
EMPLOYME,NT. Inantipersonnel mines and booby traps,
1 NOV 1943
\, I
U.S. RELEASE FUZE Ml
FUNCTIONING
1. When restraining load of at' feast 2 pountls is re!,lOved,.
latch releases spring lever. : . . , '.. '.
2 . Lever, propelled by spring, swings down add strikes firing
pin.
3. Impact of firing pin fires.percussioncap.
TEStiNG
1. Unscrew base.
2. Hold' fuze in one hand, press downward on latch, remove'
safety pin. .
3, Release pressure on latch. Spring lever should strike firing'
pin.
4. To recock, remove lid.
5. Pull spring lever back and catch wiih latch hook. At same
tiine lower forward end of, latch- into bracket. -', \
6. When hole in latch lines/up with hole in insert
safety pin. .
.7. Replace lie!.
8. Screw on base. '
53.03-b 1 NOV 1943 IPM 5-31
AND ARMING
3. . cardboard
. U. S. nonelectric
4.. Screw base to fuze.
on
5 . . Insert cap in charge Of, if detonatiIlg cord is used,' ta:pe one
end'to ca:p and run other end to charge.
FM 5-31
1 NOV
, 53.03-c
U.S. RELEASE FUZE_Ml
,
6. Provide level foundation for fuze to rest ()n.
7. Place restraining load on exposed surface .
8. Gently remove safety pin by pulling attac,hed string. .
9. If no clicking sound is heard, pullout nail. If nail (ioes not
come out spring -lever probably has fallen. so,
charge, upscrew base, remove load, and check. If defective"
discard fuz,e and use another. .
DISAR.MING
\ 1. Insert nail.
2. Inserts.fety pin.
DEFUZING
1. After inserting mtil and safety pin, remove restraining load.
I .
2. Remove fuze from charge.
3. Unscrew' and- destroy base, or store 'in a safe place: Do not
attemptlo remove bla,tin'g cap froin base .
. RE,USE
fuzes may be any number of times if tests them
satisfactory, If percussion, cap in fuze has been fire4, and fuze
is, to' remove cap and press new No. '3 cap firmly'
into ptace. .

1 NOV 194.3
5-31
(
)
.1
TYPE. Chemical delay fuze .
----- !DENTlF!CAT!ON .
. AND SAFETY
STRiP
STANDARD ..
BASE
. COLOR. Unpainted excepf for safety tab.
CASE. Upper half copper, lower half brass.
EMPLOYMENT. Delayed-action luze for firing a delayed-action
mine.
PM ~ _ : 1 . '
1 NOV 1943 53.04ra
\
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U. S. DELAY
I
RESTRAINING WIRE
(
,
STRIKER SPRING -_
IDENTIFICATION
AND SAFETY
STRIP
PERCUSSION CAP
FUNCTIONING
i
GLASS AMPOULE
STRIKER
INSPEcTION
HOLE
STANDARD
BASE
!
1. When glass ampoule is critshed, is released.
"Corrosive liquid eats througr restraining wire, -releasing
firing pin. , '\ ' .
3. Firing 'phi, driven by spring, fires percussion cap ..
53.04-b 1 NOY 1943 FM 5-31
I
/
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Con'suIt card, found.' in each box for' tab color that gives
required delay afprevailing
2. Select a fuze.witha safety strip of.this color.
3. Look in or insert' nail through inspection holes to make'
sure filling pin has not been released. Inspect portion of fuze
:that contains ampoule to see -it ,has not been crushed.
. 5. cap in or, if detonatipg cord is used, tape one
e'idto cap and other end to charge. '
6; Crush ampoule "
7. Inspect tlirough hole to see if striker has faUeI).
8., Withdraw identification and safety strip.
, .
FM 5-31 /1' NOV 1943
53.04-'c
I
/
U. S. DELAY FUZE Ml
DISARMING I .. .
There is ;no safe way of disanning: If absolut,ely necessary to
disarm, 'insert safety pin through inspection holes.
'PACKING AND TRANSPORTING . I
Ten fuzes."are, pa.eked in a Included are instructions. for
use and .a table giving delays, qnder vario1us temperatures,
I.
RE.USE
Once actuated, Juzes cannot be re-used.
, -'. .
CAUTION,' . . .
Troops must not appi-oach an in;talled charge employing this
delay fuze.' Areas where they have been installed should be
marked. Time' period starts when tube, is 's'queezed, ,not
when safety tab is withdrawn. '
SPACE FOR NOTES.
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OR, MIAI
NOTE: MIlliE NOT
'DESCRIPTION' ,
.a'ptitank As commonly 'used, ,it 'rests on
release fuze 111,\0 whichis a %-pound block of TN:,
EMPLOYMENT :, ,
To hinder rewoval of arititaqk mines.
1"', ,-,.,
FUNCflONING .,' '" \'
When-' a'ntitank mine is lifted, fuze: detonates TNT, -sets off
.' --I. : ,- -:.
Qllpe. c
COMMENT,
Mine may bp .bpopy:trappep by attaching pull fuze to mine.
or sack
\
FM'S-31
I
.1 NO\( 1943 55.01-0
BOOBYTRAPPINC U. S.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
, 1. Dig hole deep enough s,otop ofspider of
mine is at least )1,\ inch above surface of ground. ,
Place nail through positive safety holes in fuze and unscrew
hase." i I, _ ' ' "
3. Remove cardboard protector from fuze base.
" 4. Crimp nOl\electric cap to base.
5. Screw base into fuze.
6. Insert cap in TeNT block.
'1.' Provide level, solid foundation for fuze to,res! Sepa-
from, mine case' may be_' used. I '
8. Place fuze and TNT block on foundation, and pla,e anti:
..tank mine on exposed surface 'of latch: -,
,? Fill h9le.
10. Remove safety fork from mine. , '
11. Remove safety pin from fuze by string attached to.1t.
1 2. If no clicking s'oulJd is heard, remove nail from positive
safety, holes by string tied to' nail. If it, does riot come out
easily, remove installation and check release fuze.
_.- \ .
DISARMING
1. Dig under rrline to get at fuze.
2; Insert nail through positive 'safety holes.
Insert safety pin through safety-pinhole. '
"(Replace safety fork. '
DEFUiING'
, 1. After disarming; rerpove mine and defuze. (See page 5 1.0 J-d.)
2. Remove fuze from TNT block. ' ,
Unscrew base, with attached blasting cap, fr"m fuze.
SPACE FOR NOTES
, If soil is sandy it may be necessary to put fuze! in burlap or
cloth wrapping. ' .
'\
55.01-b \ \-
1 i NOV 1943 FM 5-31
\ "I.
t,
)
!,
','1

DESCRIPTION
Antitank mine, M5 ordinarily is booby trapped by pull-fuze,
Ml, screwed into botton well. Pull wire is attached to' putI'
ring of fuze, and to stake. '
EM I'LOYMENT
Booby trapping makes removal more hazardous and time-cob-
$uming,; however, use, of metallic permits detection' hy
, mine detector. '
FUNCTIONING
" When mine is lifted, pull wire trips fuze, sets off mine.
: &'U Il-'l'" ' : -/ , NnV.'0.3 '
. ""', ;
BOOBY-TRAPPINC U.S.A,T. M5
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Dig hole with tilpered sides. Deepen and hole at o!,e -'
side to form a trench. ' "
2. Drive stake into bottom of hok
,3. Unscr:ew base from 'and remove' prote,ctor
from base.
nonelectric
fuze.
I; ::.;
cap to base, and screw b:ase back into
5." plug from well in bottom of mine.' :r
6 . . Screw fuze 'into well:, . ,
7. Tic short; wire to sta,ke and to fuze and lpwcr
into hole. ", <' -i. ' ,
8. Lead strings from safety pins of secondary out- to side'
of excavation. '
9. Fill hole.
1 o. saJetyring from mine fuze.
11. Remiwe safety pin from head offuze by pulling on'string.
12. Remove positive safety pin from fuze by pulling gently on
string. If pin binds, 'remove fuze and check.' "
, NOTE: methods of anchoring and installing pull wire
also are .
DISARMING-
Uncover top" and remove fuze,'
2. 'Dig under mine, and disarm fuze.
DEFUZING
". After disarming ,cut pull wire and remove
Unscre\v fr6m mine, 'and remove base.
SPACE FOR NOTES . , , ;
\
55.02-b
The fuze is set off when the rifle is ..
INSTALLING \ ..
Follow directions .given
53.02-c).
DISARMING
installing pull fuze 1 (page
Locate fuze. Follow directions for disarming pull ft+ze
Ml (page 53.02-d)
. I
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
, \
\
U. S. TANK' TURRET BOOBY-TRAPPED
Pull fuze isplaced:between tur;et basket and hull of medium
tank to detqrtate when turret is' rotated.
INSTALLING
Follow directions given for installing U. S. pull fuze Ml (page
53.Q2-c).. .
DISARMING
\
Locate fuze and follow directions given' for disarming U. S.
pull fuze ~ (page 53.02-d) . '
./
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
5S.04-a
/
"
,
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I. "".
"Fuze is 'by pressure cushion.
INSTA'-LING
. ,
Follow directions' given for installing U. S. pressure fuze MIAI
(page,53.01-c) .
DISARMING
Locate fuze ,and follow directions given for disarming U, S'I
:pressure fuze MIAI (page 53.01-d). ,
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
. 55.05-al'-
/
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Charge is detQI)ated when whic'le is mDved,
. i:'l f
INSTALLING
, I. Dig hDle llnfl"r wheel,
2.Cl'imp cap qn
3. Insert, crijnp,d blasting
spDiL
primacord.
in TNT blDck. Add
charge, : i" '
4; 'Crimp anptp,r blasting tD base D[ release [llze,
5. To/pe Df cap Dn [llze, " ,
, 6. Pla,e co':)ptete assemblyjn hDle. "
7. Refill and camDllflage,'
8. P",h tillck 'io' wheel is release latch,
(
. I! :", -
9, ,Pllll remDving ..,
10. If nD ChfklI)g sDund 15', hyard, and safety naIl 15 easIly:
mDved, pllll remDving:jt, ",:
II. Best IDca}iqnis Dn a slqpe. Iira,ke wheels. When brake is
released, moves and 'off trap., . .'
." . . ,
fDllDW dirictiDns given fDr diiarming u. S,
release fuze 1\iH(page
, . -.
FM 5-31- 1 NO\( 1943
55.07-a
\
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)
,
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S. PULL FUZE IN WINDOW INSTALLATION
I
The. charge is 'fired when t h ~ window -is eithtir raised or lowered .
. INSTALLING
F o l l ~ w directions given for installiJilg and .arming pull fuze M I
(page 53.02-c). . .
DI.SARMING i
Locate and idel)tify fuze. Follow directions gi.ven for disarming'
I (page 53.Q2-d).! I.' . . !
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"':'.'::-': ,','-,',,"" .. ",:, ':: ,,':,,:'::': ','-',<: -,:'::,
U. S. PULL FUZE UNDER CHAIR
. ,
CHARGE
PRIMACORD.
il
U.S. PULL FUZE M 1
Fuze 'is, detonated when chair is moved.
,
INSTALLING
Follow directions
53.D2-c} .
,
given for' installing pull f;'ze 'Ml (page
DISARMING
Locate fuze. Follow,directions given for disalTI!ingl'ull fuze M 1
(page 53.02-d). .
/
FM 5-3' , NOV '943 55.1o-a '
\
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,'" - -," - -,' ,- -, - - '
'u. S.
I
." ,
. . : .
Sketch shows typical combil1ation pullr 'and pressure-fuze in-
stallati,On. I I
INSTALLING
Follow ,directions given for .. installing pull fuze MI (page
53.02-c) .and pressure fuze MIAI (page 53.01-c).
, >-
DISARMING
Locate fuzes, and foUow-,directions given for disarming (pages
53 .. 02-d and 53.01-d). ,,' "
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U.S. PULL FUZE WITH CEMENT BAC
/
Sack -of cement or other material is booby trapped as shown
in sketch. . \
INSTA.LLlNG '.. '.' . .' .
.. Follow directions given for installing U. S. pull fuze Ml (page
53.02,c) .
DISARMING
\ Loca:te- fuze arid foHow directions given for disarming (page-
53.02'd) .
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 55.12-a
\
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, I
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"
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BR . I 11 S H
, \ c
. ,
MINE TACTICS. MINES AND FUZES
\ .
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60.01 GI;NERAL British 'and ,American thine-warfare policy is
nearly identical in all maj& respects, drtll mine danger sigbS
are similar. /
60.02 DEFENSE '''i ' ,', Ii ' ",
a. The British base their, an antitank gun
"scree,n,'! which:they c;losely' their mine fields.
Their defensive policy is fire ,of all arms
on an'enemy attack in to
from tanks, thuscorripe!lirtg the tarlkj 10,continue the ad-'
,vance alone and partially blind" The tanks, then are
held up in the mine fields find the antitank gun
screen. -. i"jq! "
b. The defenses are sitbd!, in consideh:blt depth, each 'de-
fended locality being of all and able to
continue fighting even though surrouh4e!i. Toese defended
localities are connected by:mine fields ru#ning both, laterally
',' , " 1_,_'
and from front to re,ar, so to delay any enemy
penetration and 'to give timp for launclii:Hg: a counterattack. '
60.03 MINE-FIELD is of great
importance, and all mine are surrohhded by wire fences,
except the most- advanced rhine field!? dirbd facing the-, enemy,
the front edges of which ani not fenced. ' ,.' ,
, :; 'j j I .
60.04 MINE-FIELD RECORDiNG' Mine-field records are kept at
corps. and where the., engineer is
spbnsible for maintaining lhem up-to-,dclte. Units entering a
new sector\usually obtain,'rriine-field-recbid datarfrom the
.engineer at corps . ,
/.
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PRESSURE PLATE
7'1> IN. ----------01
I
;
,TYPE. Antitank mi1ne
COLOR; Sides and tqp dark gre,en; bottom, yellow, with eros; of
red green' 1,
CASE. Steel
8% pounds
I ,
4 pounds TNT or barato!
'EFI'ECT
Breaks tracks on light and medium vehicles
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Ste'eI' case contains eight 'm'ines and eight fuzes.
I
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943:,
BRITISH C. S. MARK II MINE
I
PRESSURE PLATE
FUNCTIONING
!
1. down pressure'plate crushes thin-walled brass sleeve.
2. Head and plunger forcecidownward. Four prongs on brass
safety sleeve release grip. Spring compressed.
3. Released balls forced outward into recess.
4. Released striker fires
main charge. '
I I
,

STRIKER SPRING
BRASS' ... ,'on -
SLEEVE
PERCUSSION
CAP. .,
BRASS

----:-- STRIKER
BRITISH 'C. S. MARK'II MINE
AND ARMING
11. Dig hole deep enough so topo! mine will be just' below
. ground surface. ,
,,2. Lay mine on edge,

I,
4. Insert fuze and screw it in finger tight.
5. Place mine pressure plate up,
, 6. Fill hole and conceaL
C. S. MARK II MINE
,j.
DISARMING
To disarm, defuie.
DEFUZING.
U ilscrew fuze from bottom, and
REUSE
Inspect to see tl}in-walled brass sleeve' not been crushed.
/ ' , \
SPACE FOR NOTES
.
.;,fo'i"
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.... BRITISH .. C. $.MARKW MIN
J'
SIN ..
8IN .. .. 1
TYPE. Antitank mine .
. C.OLOR. Khaki:green.
CASE. Steel.
WEIGHT. 12%
EXPLOSIVE. 87':1 pounds TNT or baratoL
EFFECT. Disables tanks a;'d vehicles.
,
FM 5':'31 1 NOV 1943
61;02-0
BRITISHe.S .. MARK IV. MINE
FUNCTIONING
1. forces plate down onie
2. Striker is pushed cutting shear pi'll.
3. Released striker fires pcrcu'ssion -cap-aetonator-booster----:-
. main' .. ,
61.02-b
f NOV '1943 FM 5-31
\
',:" ,- J-::,'i/'''" --'_ - " ,,: ,",' , : ':';
C.S. MARK IF
INSTALLING AND ARMING.
1. Dig -ho.Ie deep enough so mine will protrude 34 i'nch above
ground. ., .
2. Remoye adhesive tape binding pressure plate to 'container. I'
3. Remove pressure plate.
4. --Put mine in hole.
5. Rem0ve paper which seals fuze welL ,
6. Make sure shear pin is in position, insert remove
pin. The unit should be an- easy fit; do not use force.
FM 5-31 , " NOV 1943
61.02-c
:' (,
7. Replace pressure plate. ,
8. Cover with loose earth or sod ..
DISARMING
Remo've pressur'e plate, ,insert safety in
-'
DEFUZING
After disarming, ,take fuze from well. Lift mine. Replace pres-
Isure plate.:Stack l11ines and fuzes separately. '<
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING I !
Wooden box contains' five Fuzes are' packed separately, . '
20 to a wooden box. ' ' ,
RE,USE
Inspect Juz'e to'- see
partially cut.
I
SPACE FOR NOtES

,
,
.I
shear pin is in and riot cut or
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/
1 NOV 1943 FM,
! :
/1
\'
i
I
TYPE. Antitank
COLOR.
CASE. Steel
, WEIG"'T.8
"EXPLOSIVE. 4% pounds TNT or baratol
.) , .
EFFECT. Immobilizes tanks' and vehicles
, AND TRANSPORTING ,
Wooden box contains five milles. 'Fuzes packed' separately, 20
to. a wooden box. . i .' /.
DISARMING' '
1. spider:
2. Lift'outpressure cap. ,
3. Insert safety pin into striker he,ad.
FM5-31'
I' NOV 1943
'\ 61.03-a
l
"
. . .

; BRITISH C. S. MARK V
/ ..
FUNCTIONING
1 . forces 'spider pressure tip?,
Striker is pushed down,:cutting shear pip.,
3. Released striker percussion cap-detonator-booster-
main I. I
DEFUZING
After disarming fUrze, it from
RE'USE, . / . :., .
Insp,ect fuze t.o spe shear has not beeh .or parti<llly ..
. Straighten straps, if bent; that spider chnbe fitted on pres-
sure cap Without .s.trail1:'
61.03-b
. 1 NdV 1943
INSTALLING AIiID ,
1. Dig hole so top of spider
ground. !
will protrude 7:1' inch above
2. Place mine.
3. Remove spider pressure cap .
. ,
4. Make sure shear pin isjn place.
J
FM 5-3'
1 NOV 1943 61.03-c
BRITISH C.S. MARK'V MINE
/
\
5. Insert fuze, using no force. Extract safety pin; ,
Place pressure: cap over fuze it on rubber washer.
7. Replace spider, making sure in slots in straps.
8. Cover with earth or sod. '
61.03-d
FM 5-31
BRITISH C. S. MARK 'VH.C. MINE
TYPE. Antitank' mine
, ,
COLOR. khaki-green
CASE. Steel
WEIGHT .. 12 pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 8J1.i pouIjds TNT
This mine has a G. S. Mark V body, with explosive, filling
occtipying space on both sides of 'wall within explosive com-
, partment.' Greater amount of explosive in the Mark VH. C.
,causes greater damage to tank tracks and to Function./
ing, installing, defuzing, of packing, and re-use de-
scribed for Mark V (see p. c, d). "
JM 5_31 . 1 NOV 1943'
.'
61.04-a

!'(
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NO. 75 HAWKINS GRENADE MINE. MARK I
TYPE. Antitank mine
COLOR. Olive-drab.
CASE. Steel .
3 pounds
-....:.._ PRESSURE PLATE
.
.
EXPL9SIVE. IV. pounds Nobel's 704 .
EFFEerT. Disables light tanks and vehicles
, ': '
FM 5-31 1 NOY1'43
BRITISH NO. 75 HAWKINS CRENADE MINE, MARK I
, ' " , 'I
-----'-_--'---PRESSURE P\ATE
CHEMICAL FUZE
MAIN CHARGE
FOLD IN
PRESSURE PLATE
FUZE POCKETS,
EMPLOYMENT
1. In hasty mine fields to p;otect 'forward (rgops:
2. Buried in deliberate'mine fields, '
3. In road blocks,
FUNCTIONING
1. Pressure causes"prcssurt plate to bend.
2. Folcl in pressure plate crushes vial ',ill fnze,
3. Resulting. chemical reaction of fuze ingredi,ents produces
flame w\hich sets off charge.
61.05-b l-.NOY 1943 FM 5-31
\
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BRITISH NO. 75 HAWKINS GRENADE MINE. MARK 1
INSTALLING AND ARMI.NG
Lay with long side parallel to line of enemy approach ...
In mine field, bury two or more wines together,
with pressure plate of upper mine OJ;' mines flush with surface.
To arm-
1. Insert detonator into fuze and fasten with rubbJ;f sleeve.
2.. Insert fuzes into two pockets under, plate,
detonator end in first and insuring that red paint is visible in
3. 'Close flaps at ends of pockets.
.
PM .5-41 I NOV 1943 61.05-<
BRITISH NO. 75 HAWKINS CRENADE MINE. MARK 1
DISARMING.
To disarm, clef uze .
,DEFUZING
Open flaps of fuze 'pockets and remove fuzes. Take fuze as!
semblies apart. Store, detonator' and Juze, separately.
PACKING AND TRANSPOR,TING
RE.USE
~ a n be rc-u.sed as often as necessary., Inspec,tJuze to s e ' ~ it has
not been crushed. '" i . ' I
SPACE FOR NOTES
.61.05 .... 1 NOV 1943
FM 5-31
(
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BRITISH NO. 75 HAWKINS CRENADE MINE, MARK II
, ,
PRESSURE PIN
.
ONE.PIECE FUZE ASSEMBLY FOR
NO. 75 GRENADE MINE MARK II
Similar: to Hawkins grenade mine, Mark I, with exception that
fuze js in .one and is fired by pressure pin; and the fuze "-
pockets are inclined at an angle tD permit easier insertion. For
description of Hawkins grenade Mark I, sec p. 61.05-a.
SPACE FOR .NOTES
.,
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943'-
61.D6-c!I
,
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OiiiiIiio2""----'-'TIRIP WIRE SLOT
IN.-'--..,--,-1
, TYPE. Antipersonnel mine
\ COLOR. Yellow
CASE. Steel
WEIGH,T. 10 pounds
, ,
; E,XPLOSIYE. 1 pound amato)
EFFECT., Casualties to' personnel within 30 yard,.
, FMS-31
I'
1 NOV 1943 /
TRIP PLATE
SAFETY PIN
,62.01-a
, .
MARK II
FUNCTIONING
1. Minimum [lull,of 4 pounds on trip wire pulls trip plate
ouf.of .
2; Striker is frred" and driven ,down by striker sprillg.
3. Striker firescartrid!\".
4. Pressure frqrn explosion shears studs and' projects inner
case upward .
. 5. As' case' leaves cannister, le"ver on auto';;.
matically pulls'- out of recess and ,springs re1..easing .
striker.
6. Spring striker against detonator,
7. Detonator explodes charge when case is 'about 3 feet above
gromid.' '
62.01-b 1 NOV 1943 , FM, 5-31
ARMING
1. Dig hoie so- mine can bc laid upright, with trip plate at
.. ground level.
. 2 .. Unscrev.: qar'tridge-pistol with spanner tool. See that
tridge recess, is clear .. ,
3. Insertballistite cartridge '4; Re place cartridge-pistol
provide? mine. and' screJv tight, sure
safety pin is pushed in.
,5. Remove qlaking certain safety pin is in
Inspect ,socket to see ,if clear. .
6. Insert detonator, smal1 end
first, so', ,cap end rests on shoul-
der in socket.
7. Replaee'detonator-pistol so
its firing lcyer engages in recess.
Be sure safety pin is in place.
, 8., Put mine in hole, and pack
carth.,around. it. '
9. Attach loose trip lire.
10. Remove
safety pin.
11. Fill hole.,
12. Remove I cartridge-pistol
safety pin. If safety pin can-
not bc'Withdrawn easily, release
-tcnsi6h' and reset. trip plate:
, \
FM
NQiV 1943'
62.01-c

BRITISH SHRAPNEL MINE, MARK II
DISARMING
1. Replace detonator-pistol safety piri.
2 . . Replace cartridge,pistol safety pin ..
3. Cut trip wire.
DEFUZING
After disarming, defuze mine by reversing fuzing procedure
and removing detonator and cartridge.
PACKING AND. TRANSPORTING.
Mines complete with and detonator-pistols are
packed four in a wooden box, with four cartridges, four det
o
'
a spanner tool, and two coils of trip wire. Total weight,
54 poUnds. .
REUSE .
Before re-use, test as follow's: After disarming pistols, lift mine
and examine externally. In ,removing cartridge and detonator,
note any tendency to stick. If either cartridge or detonator can- '
not be removed, discard cartridge an'd. getona
tor' for, corrosion. Examine _ empty pistol sockets" and cartt:idge
and detonator recesses, for conosion and wetting.' -Petonator"
socket particularly should be inspected for blue or green in-
crustation. If found, discard mine. Test some of removed ball-
istite cartridges and by firing separately.
SPACE FOR NOTES
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62.01-<1 1 !jOV .1943 PM 5-:31
)
BRITISH SHRAPNEL MINE, MARK I

DETONATOR PISTOL
SAFETY PIN
SPRINGLEAF
LEVER RECESS
LEATHER
CARRYING STRAP
,
The Mark I is the issue of tllC shrapnel mine and differs
only slightly from the Mark II (page 62.01-a). These differ
'\, are as
1. The Mark I spring leaf lever is shorter, and reeess for it
does not extend full dep* .of mine.
2. Mark I has a leather carrying strap.
3/ Detonator of Mark I has aslight delay action; that of
Mark II. has none.
FM 5 ... 310 NOV ,943 62.02-0
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BRITISH PISTOL GROUND SPIKE
BULLET
BARREL -----..:.., __ _
,/
T'(PE. Antipersonnel mine
I
COLOR. Black, olive-drab, or aluminum color
CASE. Steel
EMPLOYMENT
. .
This self-contained unit, which discharges a bullet, is sunk into
roads and pathways. It is fired by pressure. Bullet will per-
forate a mart's foot severely a pneumatic tire.
DISARMING
Remove
PACKING AND TRANSPORT.lNG
Devices, complete with cartridges, are wrapped in waxed
paper, packed in flat tip box,. and seale<j with adhesive tape.
Ten per tin. Twenty tins peT wooden box 28 by 11 by 87'4
. inches. Weight, 94 pounds.
\
FM 5-31
_ 1 NO.V 1943 62.03-cr
PISTOL CROUND SPIKE ...
CAUTION
Iv pz;t cartridge into spike except when laid.
FUNCTIONING.
1. Slight pressure on top of bullet forces hollow stem of striker
over umbrella catch, releasing holding spring': in com',.
pression.
2. Spring sleeve upward against s'tri:Ker head.
3. drives against cartridge,':;,
TESTING
Test, by cocking firing and striker. Depressing,
striker witp" unsharpened end of pencil will c;omprcs.s
, releasing firing sleeve. Impact can be 'felt in pencil.
. "" '"
INSTALLING AND ARMING
Usually comes cocked ready for USC, being kept in position in
spike by a c(,rk. If 'necc:ssary to cock----.:.--' _ ",
1..' empty i'nte groun? to level
2. Place firing sleeve, rounded 'end, down; spring, and
push down until catch engages. . . .
3. Place cocked mechanjsm in
4. Lower striker into barrel
5; At arm's length, lower cartridge gently into barrel, p.oint
,ward. betwecnJinge.rs; thc."n in case of a prc- i
mature firing- a finger will not be blown off.
62.03-b FM 5-31'
PRESSURE FUZE NO.2'
--,-,


-L
/{.-4-,-'i'"-'-- 311 IN. --'-----'->I
TYPE. l'ressure fuze
COLOR. Olive-drab
CASE. Brass body and base plate
FUSE ADAPTER

CARRYING HOLE
EMPLOYMENT,' ','
Used under boards, door mats, and the like in booby-trap'in-
stallations.where actua'tion by pressure _is
PACKING AND TRAN$PORTING
Fuzes, assembled with percussion caps ,and fuze 'adapters, are
,wrapped iJ.1 waxed paper and packed in tens in flat, tin bo"es,- \'
sealed with adhesive tape. Twenty tins per wooden box, 26 by
9Y. by Sy. inches. Weight, 92 pounds. .
BRITISH PRESSURE FUZE NO. 2 ;
SAFETY PIIN HOLE
.:. '
STRIKER SPRING.
\ .
RE.TAINING PIN
FUNCTIONING ," . ,. .... .
. 1. Load of 30 to Vshaped of
shear stud to break striker rod.' .
2. Striker, driven forward by spring, fires cap.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
). .
1. l-temove pressure ,cap from base pIb.te, to which it is
tached during transport. .
2. Insert pressure, cap in hole i.n bod'y, and position it to strad-
. die striker rod. If properly placed, pressure cap cannot be
\ rotated:' \ . '
3. Unscrew collar and remove fuze adap'ter.
i.
4. Place fuze in position', '
5. Reattacb collar and adapter.
6. Remove safety pin.
DISARMING
Inse'rt safety pin. cap_out of duiing. 'If this "is' no't
: possible, cut fuze connectirig fuz,e to charge.
,
'REUSE
Unscrew c'oliar, remove fuze 'adapter,- and make sure striker is
in cocked position. ''If s.trfker rod 'has bec,ri sheared, striker will
fall out of barrel and fuze cannot be
1 NOV '1943 . FM 5-31
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.1_ EXnNSION ROD "
TYPE. Pressure fuze
Dull khaki
CASE. Alloy metal
CYLINDER
EMPLOYMENT " . "
To boobY-lrap by pressure, Adjustable exten-
sion rod mechanism to be used under railway track.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING'
Two complete with
l
extension rods and pCI' J
\ cardboa'rd' carton. Five cartons per tin. Twenty tins per'wQoden
box, 22% by 11% by 874 inches; Weight, 90 pounds.
" "
REiJSE ..
. ' TO RECOCK
I. Unscrew fuze adapter ..
2. Withdraw striker.
3. Reinsert s'triker and striker spfing,' notch facing downward.
4. Push back striker with wooden rod uhtillips oftdp lever.
engage notch.
5. Insert safety pin. r ..
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BRITISH PRES$URE FUZE NO. 5 '
FUNCTIONING
"
'TRIKER -'--.,..--,"""
SPRING
TJIP
,SAFETY IIN HOLE
PUC:US5;ION CAP
STRIKER
1. Pressure required to operate varies with on: lid on
which it'acts. i\t end farthest from hinges 21 pounds, and 'at
center of lid 5q to 60, pounds are required to force lid down.
2. DO'uble triB lever- is against resistance' of spring.
3. Trip lever notch, freeing striker. . '
4. Striker spring drives striker against percussion -cap:
, ., I
'INSTALLING ANQ ARMING .
WITHOUT I'1XT1'NSION ROD
1. Set device ip desired position.
2.' Gonnect ' '
3. Withdraw iafety pin.
WITH EXTENSION ROD, . , '
1; Screw bras! cylinder tightly into lid, and screw extension
rod to its lowesllimit incylinder..
2. Set device in position, ,', '
3. Unscrew rqp. until'contact is maclc\with,rail or other object I
4. Connect charge. '
5. Withdraw pin.
DISARMING
Insert safety pin in safety-pin hole. Remove fuze adapter.
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BRITISH PULL FUZE ,NO.1 .
.. PULL RIN"_=_,.!J
RELEASE PIN
PLUG -===i'-.I
STRIKER SPRING --4HHll!
I+--FUSE ADAPTER
ANCHOR BRACKET
TYPE . Pull fuze
COLOR Olive:drab
CASE. Steel
EMPLOYMENT
Primarily for use witt{ trip
charges, and flares.
FUNCTIONING
wire in booby' also to fire
1. Pull of about 2 pounds Pl'lls release pin outwards.
2. Split tail of contracts and passes through opening
in plug. . .
\ Striker spring drives striker onto percussion cap.
REUSE
To' 'test' for re-use, unscrew collar and rcrpove fuze adapter.
Hold fuze with "open end against piece of wood. 'Take' out
. ,safety pin ;md gently pull release pin. Striker should .descend,
. driving its point well into wood-. To rccock,- push back striker
with: wooden rod until release pin slips into end of split{tail of
sttiket locks it in place. , ',I \
. \
PULL FUZE"Q. 1
INST.LI.ING AND ARMINCi!
1. j\emove fuze adapter by lHJ8rl"''Ylng
2.' Anchor by means of bracket. i
3. Slip barrel throughoutstanding'leg of brackbt.
4. Replace collar without fuze adapter.
Install loose trip wire.
6. Connect charge to fuze adapter by detonating .cord.
7. Reset fuze adapter on fuze by collar.
S. Withdraw safety pin gently. With installation properly set,
safety pin should be loose i"its hole.
,
DISARMIMG .
/
Insert safety pin in safety-pin hole. Cut trip wire. Remoya{uze
adapter. , .
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
. Completely assembled with percussion caps and fuze apter,
fuzes are wrapped in waxed paper and packed. in flat tin boxes
sealed. with adhesive tape. ,Ten fuzes 'per tin. Twenty tins per
wooden box 14 by 9 by 9 inches. Weight, 52 pounds.
, J
63,03-1>
1 NOV 1943
BRITISH PULL FUZE NO.4
U SHAPED CliP --'--t
SAFETY PIN --1>",_
MOUNTING m-of"
1\'PE. Pull fuze
COLOIl. Khaki

EMPLOYMENT
314 IN.
Primarily for use with trip wire in booby tfaps; also to fire \.
mines, Ghargcs, -flares.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
T\vo per carton: Five 'cartons per, tin. Twenty per case
.about 20 by 9% by6 inches. Weight, 35 pounds.
RI:USE .
TORECOCK
1. U mcrew fuze adapter. .'
2 .. Withpencif, push back strikei' as far a:, it will go. .
3;' Use safety pin to twist striker rod until safety-pin hole is in
line with two slots in body. .
4. Fit U;shaped clip over ball end of striker rod .
. 5. Allow: striker to come forward aboUt 7:i inch.
6. Insert; safety pin.' . . .'
7. ScreW in new' adapter with percussion cap.
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-I' l' NOV 1943
63.04-a
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BRITISH PULL FUZEING. 4
SAFETY.PIN
HOLE
FUNCTI,ONING ,
1., Pull of 6 to,8 pounds withdraws U-shaped clip ft:ombal\
end of striker.
2. Spring, drives striker onto percussion cap.
INSTALLI,NG AND ARMING
1". fuze 'adapter.
2. Attach fuze to desired object.
3. trip wire to U-shaped clip, adjust, ,tension, !-Intil
safety pin lies about halfway along slots in body. r
4. Qonnect charge _to fuze adapter, screw adapter'into end of'
pull fuze.
S. Withdraw safety pin. Too 'much tension on trip wire jams
safety pin against ends of and prevents withdrawal.
DISARMING,
. If close inspection is, possible, safe,W pin through' slot in
body and through safety-pin hole"in ban end of striker. Check
both ends' rf trip wire. Cut trip Remove fuze
63j04-b ,. 1 !"I0V 1943 - . t FM 5-:031
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3
(PERCUSSION) .
STRIKER - - . . . ; . ; ; E " " ~
SPRING
STRIKER
FUSE
ADAPTER
TYPE. -Fuse lighter
CASE. Unpainted brass
EMPLOYMENT . .
. As fuze lighter, manually operated, in firing charge nonelec-
tdcally. Operated by trip wire in improvised mines and booby
traps.1gnites safety fuze, and fires blasting caps. .
To eliminate noise and flash in ignitirig iiafety fuze, base of
empty rifle cartridge casc'may be drilled to receive safety fuze,
and open end flared so collar hoI", it.
FUNCTIONING
. 1. Pulling outsafety pih releases striker:
2. Striker," drivcIl:' by spring, fires. percussibn :cap, which' fires t
fuze -in adapter. .
~ M ,5-31
1 NOV 1943
63.05-a
\
BRITISH PULL FUZE! (PERCUSSION)
INSTALLING AND ARMING
Insert fuze in op("n crid ..of. adapter. _Attach t'l'ip wire' to -srifcty \
pin.
DISARMING
1. Cut trip wire.
2. Cut or. detach fuze.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTATION
per tin.
! I
RE.USE
After firipg, replace
SPAC.E FOR NOTES
I
63.05-b 1 NO" 1943 FM 5..131
, I
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TYPE. fuze
, , ' /
COLOR. Olive-drab .>
". ,CASE. Flat steel box
EMPLOYMENT
.}
\
\ .
. Placed under crates, packages, or other suitable objects in
booby-txap .
I
FUNCTIONIIiIG
1. O'n, 'removal of pressure, pressure of spring on inclined
tongue forces lid upward.
2.. SprIng and striker released.
3.. Striker against percussion cap.
1 NOV 1943 6'3.06-0
,
I
BRITISH RELEASE FUZE NO.3
INSTALLING, FUZING AND ARMING
1. Bend leaf spring back until hole in 'striker comes opposite
safety-pin hole. .
2. Insert safety pin .. -
3. fuse adap'ter in hole in side of box"
4. Close lid.
5. 'Place ul)der object so lid is closed tightly.
6. Connect fuze to charge. '
7. Withdraw safety pin. With sufficient weight on cover,
safety pin will be loose enough to pull out easily.
,DISARMING
If device is accessible;insert safety pin in ,afety-pin hole.side of
box. If inaccessib1e, cut fuse connecting rClease fuze' to chargt:.,
. ,I
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Fuzes a:nd' petcussion caps in' wax paper arc" packed
10 per tin in flat, tin boxes sealed with adhesfve'tape. Twenty
tins per wooden box 26 by by 8Y, inches. Weight, 77
pounds.
RE.USE
Test by cocking device and slowly reic<ising pressure on lid.
After testing, recock. After test firing, striker may nC.cd re-
adJustment..
63.06-b 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
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TYPE. Relea.se fuze
COLOR. Matt khaki
CASE. Alloy metal
E,.,PLOYMENT
\ Inserted into narrow opening, as 'unde'r door,o'r behind drawer.
Will withstand heavy weight, such as packing case .
. lNSTALtING AND ARMING
1. Connect fuse, to de'tonator by adapter .
. 2.' Install fuze in desired position.
3. charge.
4. Withdraw safety pin, which should come out easily.
DISARMING
,Insert safdy pin through sakty-pin hole. Disconnect,cap holder.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Two per iC<l;rton. Five cartons" per tin. tins
per case about 22 by 10% by 6 il'ches. Weight, 60 pounds.
FM 5-31
1 NOV '1943' I
BRITISH RELEASE FUZE NO.6
FUNCTIONING \ I
1. 'Wh,en load on lid is removed, pressure of trip lever forces
lid upward.' .
2. Pressure of tacked striker swings trip lever counterclock-
wise and disengages' notch. J
3. Pressure of compressed spring drives striker against per-
cussion cap;
RE.U'SE
TO ll-ECOCK..,..
1. Unscrew cap holder and fuze adapter.
2. Withdraw striker and spring.
,3. Throw trip lever over until it rests on stop pin.
4. Insert spring' arid striker, notch uppermost.
5. Push back strikerwit9 pencil or rod, and,insert safety pin.
6. Throw trip lever forward. .'
7 ~ Close lid.
S. Screw in new fuse adapter with cap ..
6 3 ~ 0 7 - b 1 NOV 1943 FM5-'31
COPPER SLEEVE
\
" GLASS TUBE OF CORROSIVE LIQUID ..... =
RETAINING
SPRING
INSPECTION HOLE
SAFETY AND IDENTIFICATION BAR
PERCUSSION CAP
FUSE ADAPTER
TYPE. Delay' fuze
. I
SHAPE. Pencil
MATERIAlS. Aluminum and copper
FUNCTIONING
1. - starts when copper sleeve is crushed and ampoule
broken. .
2.. Acid attacks and eats through wire.
Spring drives released! striker against cap.
REUSE
If you can see through inspection holes, or insert a nail through
the striker is cocked. If sleeve has' been crimped, discard.
If _ sieeve is intact] unscrew cap and' see whether capsule is i,n-
tact.. If so, time pel1:ci1 can pe re-used. I
FM 5-31 I NOV 1.943
63.08-a

BRITISH TIME PENCIL
EMPLOyMENT
1. For cjelay cffect, so a charge can be left to go off after a
tinte -interval. . , ! -, .
2. To light safety fuse, which, when pared slightly, will fit
into adapter. ' , ' ,
3. To set off Clirectly a detonator crimped over adapter.
TIMING "
Approximate times of delay are shown by col0rs' on safety strip.
Following table shows variation .of delay with
,
Temperature C. Red White Green Yellow BI .. Temperature op_,
-20 75 min. 19 hr.
3y.,
,10 days
'--
-4
. "
-10 63 min. n hr. 2% day! 5 days
--
14
0 43 min: 5 hr. 16 hr. 28 hr.
--
32
10 31 min. 20/.1 hr. 8 hr. 18 hr. 34 hr. 50
15 27rrun. , 2 hr. ' 50/.1 hr., 12 hr. 24 hr. 59
20 23min.
' 1% hr.
'4 hr. ,9 hr. 20 hr. 68
25 19 min. 3 hr. 6 hr. ,15 hr.
77
37% 12% min.
ry, hr.
'f' hr.
1% hr. 3 hr. 6 hr.
99%
43 9% ",in. g min .. 80 min. 2 hr. '
5 hr.
109%
,
Above times may vary 25 percent eitl,,;r way. Do'not use
matked with blue if temperature is likely to be below fr,ezing
when explosion is due to occur. Fuze marked with black; with
10-minute delay, is issucd for training only. '
INSTALLING AND ARMING
,'. Refer to table and selecl proper delay fuze.
2. Look through or pass nail through inspection holes to see
striker has not fallen.
3. Connect charge. , '
4. Crimp copper/sleeve flat. Do not bend or crllsh hard enough
to fracture copper sleeve. '
5. Withdraw safety strip.
6. Use two fUzes for each important charge.
DISARMING' " ,
,,' Cannot be disatmed If esse;;tial to disarm,insert safety
, strip through inspection holes, or cut fuze. '
DEFUZING
After inserting safety strip remove time pencil from charge.
PACKING AND TRANSPClRTING
Five per tin. 150 tins per case about 16 by 1'3 by 8 inches.
Weight, 57% pounds.
63.08-'b I NOV 1943,
, FM 5-31
,':" ',','\
BRITISH LEADBREAK' DELAY FUZE
SAFETY PIN -' __
TAG SHOWING
DELAY TIME
, FUSE ADAPTER
TYPE. Delay fuze
.' COLOR.
CASE. Alloy nietal
_SAFETY PIN
CLIP
DETONATOR
SLEEVE
/
EMPLOYMENT .
To charge by delayed action. '
DISARMING
,'Impossible to disarm; ,
, DEPUZING
Cannot be defuzed safely. If necessary to defuze, cut detonating
cord or'disconnect fuze from charge.
PACkiNG AND TRANSPORTING ,-
Ten per tin., Fifty tins per wooden box about 26% by 10 by 7
inches. Weight, 66 pout>ds.
RE.USE
. Cannot
FM,S-31
,
BRITISH LEADioBREAK DELAY FUZE
LEAD BREAK ..... ==
SAFErYPIN
, TENSI9N SPRING
PERCUSSION CAP
FUNCTIONING
SAFETY PIN
CLIP,
,
STRIKER
FUSE ADAPTER
,
, !
I
When safety pin'! is removed, tension in spring is taken by lead
rod. Lead breaks, ,allows spring to puJI onto
percussion cap.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Refer to table and select proper fuze,
2. Withdraw safety pin.
3. Connect charge.
SPACE FOR NOTES
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1 1943
i
, 't'
I
I
r--2FT. 9 IN. 6 IN. -, .. '1---- 2 FT. 9 IN.----j
I I fdJ[ I
INSULATOR DOUBLE'
RUBBER PLUGS I- BRASS
WIRE STRIPS
RUBBER
TUBE

SECTION
CHARGE BATTERY
TYPE. Electric fuze
DESCRIPTION
Two red rubber connected by wire, each tube containing'
two brais strips held apart by insulators'.
EMPLOYMENT
,
In speciaJizecl' form of trap for destroying wheeled' or track
vehicles. Laid across road surface probable path of traffic.
FUNCTIONING'
Vehicle passing over' either tube ,forces into contact,
completing electricdrcuit. Nine-volt baltery fires electdc de-
tonator, sets off 3- to Id-polind explosive charge.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
/Before,"connecting battery to charge, test contact 'strip with
electric blasting cap to see'-:
,. Brass -strips arc not in' c'ontact.
2. Pressure produces proper contact.
3. Contact is not maintained after presstlre
, .
FM 5-31 NOV 1943 63.11-a
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INSTALLING
i For' traPIJing" use shells -with percussion
fuzes, safety deyice removed. Place board under shellSfor firm
base, and bn.to'p 6f shells; cover tb match road surface.
DISARMING , ' " ,'.
1. Remove covering' and to'p boai'd.
2. fuzes from shells.
3. Lift shells.
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FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
/
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BALL BEARING
TYPE. Improvised electric contact
INSTALLATION
L
ELECTRIC
L E A D ~
Make ball-bearing contact as sbown in sketch, :'nC! fasten with
string or 'adhesive tape to stem of inside door knob. Fix just
above the' horizontal, so turning knob will' roll ball bearing
against n:ails. " '
I)ISARM ING'. Disconnect battery
'. NOV 1943
64.02-0
RF!ilTR
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TYPE. Improvised 'electric contact
EMPLOYMENT
As circuit closer for electrically fired booby-trap charge.
fUNCTIONIIIIG . I.
Additional pull or release qf'tension in trip wire brings 'knife
blade in contact with nail and completes circuit to fire electric
cap, sets off ~ a i n charge;
,
I
FM 5-31
NOV 1943 64.03-a

BRITISHTABLEKNIFESWITCH
INSTALLING
1. Attach lead wire and trip wire to knife blade.
2. Secure knife handle firmly in position .
. 3. Anchor trip wire in tension. "
4. Drive nails for fixed contacts.
5. Install lead wire to connect nails to one terminal of battery.
6. Connect lead wire from knife blade through detonator to
second terminal of battery. .
.1'. C<:mtiect main .charge.
DISARMING
Disco!,nect battery.
SPACI FOIt NOTES
I
64.03-b
/
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TRIP WIRE I
;;--= ,C:O'ITA," TERMINALS
-""
--- SAFETY PIN
I I
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<'"
TO
DETONATOR
TYPE. Improvised electric contact
EMPLOYMENT
SAfETY PIN
TERMINALS
As closer for electrica!ly fired booby-trap charge.
FUNCTIONING
Additional pull or release of in trip wire raises or' lowers'
metal "Veight, which acts as contact terminals
to 9omp1tte circuit.
INSTALLING AND-ARMING
Construct as shown in illustration. Battery can he mounted on \
"backboard so switch and battery for!ll a single assembly. Arm
as follows: .
1\ Test for short circuit and for break.
2. Adjust trip.wire and ipsert safety
them without touching either.
Connect charge. ' .
4,. ;Remove saflety pins. -
. DISARMING
Disconnect battery.
FM 5-31 I NOV 1943
,
pins so weight
64.04-a
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DETONATING CORD
May" be used in I;>ooby trap under flooring" as sho\.vn
in sketch.
INSTALLING
. Follow directions for installing release fuze (see page 63.06-b).
DISARMING
Locate fuze, identify, arid .follow directions -for disarming it
, (same reference).
FM 5-31 1 1943
65.01-0
( Iv
,
1
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Connect lead wires to metal plates and attach strin'g from,!
rear plate to drawer. .
2. Connect battery an'd charge and lock adjoining drawei.
DISARMING
I
1. Working from above or below the booby-trapped drawer
disconnect le'ad w i ~ e s from metal plates.
2. Disconnect'battery and charge.
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-FM 5 ~ 1
1 NOV 1943 ,65.05-a
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FUNCTIONING.
When water, ,in rain barrel reaches level
tacts, circuit i ~ closed. and charge fired. '
INSTALLING i
n
of two electric c o n ~
,
Install wiring. Place copper sulphate in barrel. Connect charge
last. . i
DISARMING
Discpnnect battery and charge.
I
FM 5'-31. NOV 1943 65.06-0
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FRENCH
MIN ETA ell c S 1M IN E S I
I
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AND FUZES
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FUZES

,
~ \ TYPE. Antitank mine
COLOR. Dull g,een
CASE. Steel
]WEIGHT. 14% pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 5% pounds,
EFFECT; Disables t a n k ~
SAFETY
BAR
, NOV 1943 -
, 71.01'41
....... _ .......... ...
FRENCH LICHT ANTITANK MINE
STRIKER'
PERCUSSION
CAP
DnONATOR - ~ ; t ;
FUNCTIONING "
4-.STRIIKER HEA.D
1. Pressure\"pf 300 to 500 pounds oIl: cover' depresse.s ,striker
head of one or both fuzes, breakil)g shear pin ,\nd releasing
striker. . ,
2. Driven by striker spring, striker fires percussion .cap-dec
tonator-bo6s'ter-main _chargEf,
1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
. I '
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DEFUZING
'1. Detach chain, and lift off cover.
2. Unscrew and remove both' fqzes.
3. Replace cover.
FM 5-31-/
NOV 1 9 ~ 3 71.01-(
4. Search for booby traps. Cut any hip wires attached to hole
in base flange. mine. .. !
INs-TALLI\IIG .AND ARMING
l/Liftcover and screw in fuzes.
2. 'Insert safety"bar in and lock in place pin.
3. Replace cover, and fasten with ci.lain and clip., ,
4. Buvymine with surface of ground or slightly pelow it.
S. Remove safety pin. ".',. "
,'6. 'Withdraw safety bar. "
REUSIi
Inspect fuzes for signs of 'rust or deterioration.
, ,'I,' ,
CAUTI9N ,I,' ." .
The cover on this mine may be' bodby-trapped. After loosen-
ing chain, examine carefully, or puU off from' a safe distance.
I
SPACE FOR NOTES
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71.01-d .... .
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, NOV '!'43
;,l,
GER'MAN
\
MINE TMTlCS. MINES
AND .FUZES ..
MINE TACTICS '\
80.01. GENERAL
Germans employ essentially the same princ'iplcsin mine'field
siting as those outlined in. American- and- British' mine-field
policies. MaxiInum use is made of surprise. Natu't:al-and,arti-
fidal .are fully to force approacni),g vehic!es
to cross the mme field. Mme fields are closely coordmated wIth,
antitank and supporting-weapon fire. Extensive use is made of
antipersonnel mines' and booby-trapped antitank mines.
80.02. TYPES OF MINE FII;LD
a. The Germans distinguished between laying broadcast
and in reguiar fields. Strict rules regulating the laying and re-
cording of patterned Imine belts ,have been drawn up by the
German General Staff. Frequently it has proved possible to
forecast the l()cation of every mine in a ,section once -the first
rew have been located. In such fields !he mines arc laid at regu,-
lar intervals in the n;tines -6f one row lying
behind the gafis in the row in front, centrally, some-
times offset. Where speed is the main consideration, or during
a with,drawal, mines are indiscriminately and in small
groups. During the later stages of the North ,!,-frican campaign
mines usually were laid in this causing c()'n'siderable dc:;lay
'and casufllties evpn thqugh the mirie fields"were- not
covered by fire. This practice may be expected in all future
campaigns when the enemy is in full and . does not ex;
pect to reoccupy lost ground.
b. The main belt, of a major aniitank mine field laid in uni-'
form pattern normally consist of antitank mines with "a sprink- ,
ling of antipersonnel mines in the forward ecjgeof the' field.
Both types may be fitted with aniilifting devices, and some of
the antipersoimel mtnes normally attached.1n
some cases these mines- are placed it)' \the .intervals between
die diagonal wires of a double-apron with trip wires
fastened to the diagonals. The trip is the first part of the'
fence touched by the approaching enemy., .
80.01-8'0.02 -1 NOV ,1943 FM 5-3'1
,
\
,\
I' "
.
F''e,queintly in the for'
a mine fields to prevent the use of
detonating the main belofantipersonnel
. ,mines. I
d. The fOllWard 6f mine fields of all types often are sown
with explosive placed in wooden boxes fitted with pre,-
sure fuzes. These act as both antitank mines,
and 'tend to prevent determining the exact location of
by use of detectors,
Forward of most regular fields; and particularly in front of '
lanes, mines may be found widely spaced or scattered,' at ran-
dom in unmarked groups. 'Mines also are laid in spurs
alright angles to the forward edge' of the mine field to damage
vehicles moving' along the field hi search pflanes.
80.03. TYPIC:AL' GERMAN MINEFIELD
a. Thepacing method normal'ly is\lsed to establish the locar
. tions of "individual mines in a mine-belt section .. Five paces is
the normal interval between thine" Both deliberate
mine-belt sections are used. . '
b. An example of the lay-out for a German, hasty mine belt
is shown in figure '80,03a,' "
REPEAT PANELS
TO ANY FRONTAGE
FRONT 30 PACES (24 METERS)
12 MINES
1_, . ,I
. , 1'1
,NOTE, 10PACES=26 FEET=8METERS
Figure GeTman Hasty mine field pattern.
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 80.02-'80.03 ,
. \'
It has sections 30 paces wide by 30 paces deep, or appfoxi-
.mately 80 by 80 feet. Each section contains 12 mines. The
den,sity averages 1 mine per. 2 yards of front.' The sections are"
repeated to extend the jDine belt as desired. . .
c. A typical German deliberate mine belt is. shown in figure,
80.m-b. I
5
.5
.1
,
i
5 '$ 5
. .
, I
- .... --, ..
5
,,5

,
-
"
10
I
,
i
,
T/
,
I
,
,.
,
,
,
, ,
. ,. '"
-6- i'.>-
A ;
__:'
,
,
... y
'IT i
, I ,
.J.. ,,'
10
.... , 'I ,
-lH-+:--';" . ---<?+- :' __ ,*1 __ "9+,:'
, ; ;
I
-?' ; " .:.' y
5, , ' , , :'
-, ,
10
, 5,J. 5 ; -"C,c 5. :
I _1 5 ' I .
I
5 I ' I _, I
2
i-I: I
5
. ;
,
"
5 5
5
l i
FRONT-30 PACES (24 METERS)
, .
24 M'NES
I
.5 3
Figure BO.03b. deliberate. pattern.
7
10
10
I
10,
3
80.03
\ !"OV \943.
FM 5",:,,31
'J
,; ,
:'i,
L
.il
!
'"
..
u

*
mine is laid lin sections SOpices wide by.40 paces
deep, or approximately 80 by 105 feet. The section contains
24 mines. density averages 1 mine per yard of mine-field
front. The sections usually are '.stagge,red, and for extensive
mine belts ate combined in units of three or four as shown in'
figures 80.0Sc, and 80.0Sd.
r.30 PACES!?8, FT.)
"'-
...
)!t:
"'8:
0-
"
Non. EACH PANn, 15.40 PACES,
COH'IAItIS 14 MINts wrrH aoH
SPACING.
I
,
!
I Figure 80:03c, German' panel
FM 5-3.1
1 NOV 1943
80.03
'.
,I
\
I.
Figure 80.03d, Layout 01' German
mine field.
80.04. PROTECTION OF MINE FIELDS
80.04
The Germans teach that mine fields must be covered by.fire,
although during the withdrawal in North Africa many nuis-
,
,. NOV )943 FM 5-31
'"
ance fields were left unmarked and without fire cdver. It is
corrimon for a mine to h...1.ve at the rearward edge
a listening post of two men afld about 70 or' 80 yards to their '
rear a covering party bf four or five men with one or two light '
I . machine guns. '
80.05. IRREGULAR OR NUISANCe MINE FIELDS
G. An indication of the haste witlt which tho-German wi\h.-
in Tripolitania and were ca'rried' 01.Jt was the
comparative rarity of regular miIJe fields and the large number
of small nuisance fields which were laid. These nuisance fields
. contaihed many different types of mine, often were unmarked,
and showed eVery evidence of haVing been laid in a hurry. The
consequent lack of uniformity made their detection and clear-
,ance a laborious and dangerous bUsiness" Though no consis-
tency was noted in lay-out' and types of mines used in such
fields the Germans showed certain marked preferences in their
choice, of sites for them. I
(1 J- In general, mines were laid either close to or on roads, on
airfields and railways, and along telegraph-line routes, "
(2) .The surfaced' portion of roads usually defeated the hasty
mine layer, .but khaki.;painted Telleqn:in'es sometimes were
placed on the road where it dipped sharply, iIj the hope that
drivers would be unable to check their in time ,to
,'avoid them. / .J
(3) The m'Mn effor.t directed .to;'ard, vehicles
off the road at narrow place, where they h,ad to pull out to
- pass and at entrances to defiles where they had to pull 'off .the
road- and wait for vehicles moving in the opposite direction.
Other places' frequently sown with tntitank mines were
outs, sharp bends _which fasi-movink traffic .might overshoot,
the unsurfaced island sometimes found at: crossroads, berms,
and well-worn wheel TU,tS. '
(4) Efforts to evade detection included-
(aJ' Burying miffes as much as' 24 inches below the sur-
lace where they, would explode only after the passage of a
number of vehicles had compacted the earth cover sufficiently
to , oper:i.te the fuze,
(b) Putting explosives in wooden boxes to foil mirie de
tectors.
(c) Marking tire prints in the earth on top of the mine
liy drawing a detached axle and wheels over it,
b. The showed considerable ingenuity in siting ran-
dom mines on the line of the, British advance.
,Road demolitions were, plentifully sown with S ,mines, and
kilometer posts at where vehictllar drivers would have
I to dismount to read the directions (were similarly treated. S
mines, also were placed in ditches often close to the tripAwire
peg of 'another mine.' Trip wires of :white string difficult
to see against a background of sand but the pegs to which they
were attached, and sometimes a peg at the actual mi,ne, pointed
to the presence of S mines with pull fuzes. S mines; with push
fuzes normally were buried with the prongs either level with
the surface of the ground or projecting about 3 inches above
it, sometimes carefully camouflaged with twigs. S mines with
push.firing devices also have been found sometimes buried.
to ac,lepth of 4 inches.. .. . . I.
Nuisance fields. en lines ''Of communication generally were' . '
closely spaced-occasionally so closely as to cause sympathetic
detonation, particularly When the mines were laid with their
pressure plates almost flush with the surface of the ground and
only lightly covered with earth. '
, .
80.06. MARKING
German methods of n:arking mine fields are not uniform. The
front edge of the field often is unmarked, the rear edge seldom
so. Some fields have been found both unmatked and unwired.
Certain markings usually indicate the presence of mines.
following are typical examples of such markings: '
a. Double,apron fence on the enemy side and. a single trip
wire on/.the friendly side, or the'reverse. :
b. A single knee.hig!> wire, cattle fencing, and empty mine
crates. .' ' , : "-
c. Notices\ bearing the word "Minen" fixed t'O the perimeter
wiring, the fa,cing away froIp. ;;,the mines. ,
. d. In Tunisia ration boxes and '-pickets marked the corners of
some fields.
e. red and white rectangular boards, or lumino,!s
strips visible at night, sometimes marked lanes. -'
f. Jerricans en 'kilomter., posts indicate mines in.the vicinity,
and small pickets have been found marking mined turn:outs.
g. Empty mine cOlltainers normally are buried or dumped
some distance away from the field. The buried crates niay be
used' as reference points by the Germans, as S-mine crates have
been found buried flush with the groU"nd at the foof of the
graph pole nearest to i' nuisance field ion the roadside.
h. Definite refetence points generally arelacking; the Germans,
probably locate their fields by taking azimuth and distance.
from kilometer posts, track -junctions, or other fixed 'objects
, or -points. ; ,
i. Individual mines someti'mes are disslosed _bY' the disturbed
appearance of the ground above them, and many hundreds of'
mines in Tunisia thus were detJctea.by
80.07. AND BOOBY tRAPS
. The proportion of mines having antilifting 'mechani$ms varies i j
greatly from field to '.field; in some 'cases every mine is thus ,
treated and in others none, a few, depending'on,the :'
ljIaste of laying. Examples of the commonest methods observed "
in North AfriCa arc: .
I
a. ,Tellet-mines 'were laid with in
the base well. ..' " , '
b. Tellermines were laid surface with the fuze set at
"safe" and with a wire attached to ,the base'or handle leading
to a pull fuze fitted in either a3-kilogram charge orin another
Tellermine buried underneath,'
c:. Armed and buried Tellermines commonly were attached by
two' separate wires tb an S mine fittecl'>with two pull fuzes,
buried about 5 feet away,
d. In, some cases 'the wire' from a pull fuze-presumably in
, the side pocket,-led from a Tellermine to a stake about 1 foot
, so anyone digging ,around the !lline depress. the
wire and fire the charge, .
e. A wire to a pull fuze in an S mine was found
anchored tq a small bush; when the bush was' removed 'the
mine exploded, _
f. British GS'MK IV mines were laid with a wire leadingto
a pull fuze in a 3-kilogram explosive charge, Lids of both Brit-
ish GS MK II and Italian B 2 mines are reported to, have been
similarly treated, \
. 80.08. DUMMY MINE FIELDS
Gennan. dummy mine fields take varipus forms. In some case,s
a trip wire is laid to give the appearance of a mine-field
perimeter wire, with the usual'lanes, and the- ground is dis-
turb",d at regular intervals, Scrap metal is placed in shallow
holes to '-caus'e a in the mine detector., Smoke candles
buried 4- inches' beloy.; the surface -in one of the dummy
fields at Merduma West landing ground, The lids of Italian
B 2 mines frequently were laid in dummy fields, wired in, and
,booby traps interspersed" " \
f
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, 1:1.1 1:_''''
, hlnv '04:1.
f
11
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/
I
'TELLERMINE 35
j
T
I '
I
TOP VIEW
.' TYPE; Antitank mine
PRESSURE
PRESSURE
FUZE T.M;'Z. 35
BOTTOM FUZE
WELL
3
CARRYING ----'L __ .-J
HANDLE
BOTTOM VIEW
COI.OR. Gray or dark green, European pattern; tan"deseri pattern
. .
.CASE. Steel
'. WEIGHT. 20 pounds'
EXPLOSIVE. 12 pounds TNT
EFFECT. Disables tanks
,
FM 5':'31 I NOV. 1943
81,01 ... a
(
CERMAN TELLERMINE' 35
/ .
SCHARF-SICHER DIAL
CHARGE CAVITY
STRIKER SPRING
WELL

1. Pressure of 200-400 pounds on
plate and fuze housing.
2. Fuze housing presses on tOP of striker, shear pin,
which holds striker in cocked position. .
3. Drive.n by striker spring, striker off percussion'
. tomiter, main
SAFETIES
Fuze T. Mi. Z. 35 has two safeties, as follows: '. .
1. Safety bolt, which pisses though slotted hole in topyof
striker and prevents it falling. Bolt pulled Qut by a' claw.
2. Rod attached to SCHARF -SICHER dial with cam at lower
end. When dial is set at SICHER (safe), cam is .beneath
striker. When set at SCHARF (armed), cam is withdrawn.
Mairi- us'e of this safety cam is to taks pressure 'off shear wire
when striker is not in use'; , .
!
DISARMING
Mine has fuzc', Blast or disturb,ance may have
partially sheared pin. If disturbed, do not attempt to disarm
or defuze. Destroy in place with explosive. Or, lying prone, pull
mine loose with .sO-yard 'rope' or wire, drag to safe place, and,
destroy. I
IF UNDISTURBED
1. i Pre!s safety holt home. 11 safety bolt does not press home
easily do 'not force: Treat mine.
2. Pull mine from hole with 50-yard rope or wire. Or, seek
and disarm secondary fuzes ('page and lift mine.
,\.
GERMAN TELLERMINE 35
DEFUZING
1. After disarming, remove fuze and turn dial from SCHARF
to SICHER. Use coin or knife-----not screwdriver.
2. 'Tape or wire safety bolt in place; fuze in mine.
INSTALLING AND ARMI,NG
(For booby'trapping, see page 85.D1-b). ,
t. Dig. circular hole 7 inches deep, 1 % feet across at bottom;
3 feet across at top... .
Place mine in hole, with, handle' horizontal or down---:'
not up.
3 . Turn dial from SICHER to SCHARF. i
4. Cover mine; and from safe withdraw safety bolt.
i
/
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ASSEMBLING
U se- standard Tellermine t601s, since correct assembly cannot
be made withl'ut them. If improperly adjusted; mine will not
function properly ..
1. ':Vith small screwdriver, loosen set screw in adjusting collar.
2. Using Tellermine box spanner,. adjusting collar \ and
threaded. washer. .' . . . .'. '\
3. Insert detonator whose protective label is undamaged,
4. Screw threaded washer in position, tighten with, box'
, .
spanner.
MEASURING
MARKS
TELlERMtNE ADJUSTING GAGE
. 5. Screw collar in place, using Tellel'fI1ine adjusting gauge
as follows to obtain proper clearance between washer and collar.
a. Slip leather or rubber washer onto gauge as far ascollar
at base.' \
b . . Screw gauge into cover and tighten,
c. Press measuring bolt clown, turn until adjusting pillS en ..
gage holes in collar: '. ....'
d . . By rotating bolt right or left bring .mark on measuring
bolt to same height asmark on gauge casing.
e. Release. measuring bolt and unscrew gauge.
6. Screw in "it tightly. If it with one of sockets
in washer, turn c,?llar, Ys inch to. left before screwing.
7. Place sealing ring and washer lover head of collar. Mine
now is ready for fuzing. ' ,
8. If adjusting gauge is not available, an approxima1e adjust-
ment can be obtained by screwing the' threaded washer down
tight pn the detonator and screwing in the adjusting collar in
4Yo turns. I.'., . .

I'l'mediately before reusing, test fuze as follows:
1; Rrmove fuze and hold away from. mine;
2. Turn dial from SICHER to SCHARF, and, pointing bot-
tom oU fuze away from body, withdraw safety bolt. If fuze
fires, pin was I
FM 5-31 I ... OV
, '
,
CERMAN TELLERMINE 35
3. If fuze does not fire, turn dial from SCHARF to SICHliR,
push in safety bolt with claw, and replace fuze in mine.
-- I
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Transported with disarmed fuze in place. Has two German
c a s ~ s : onc holds two mines, weighs 51 pounds loaded; the",other
holdsone mine, weighs 28 pounds ioaded. '
\
NOTE
, .
- Tellermine 35 has been used with fuzeT. Mi. Z. 42, and open-
ing in cover filled with screw plug. rf,used this-way, treat like'
.Tellermine 42.
SPACE FOR NOTES
\-
I
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CERMAN TElLERMINE 35 (STEEL)
)
101\41------'---- 12WIN, -----'---'+1.1
PRESSURE
PLATE
/
CARRYING
'-__ ~ ~ - - HANDLE ---I.L......;.....;.-J
BOtTOM VIEW
TOP VIEW
TYPE. Antitank, mine
,COLOR. Gray
CASE. Steel i .
WEIGHT.' 21 pounds
. - , - ~ .
EXPLOSIVE. 12 pounds TNT
EFFECT. Disables tank,
,
!
;
GERMAN ,TELLERMINE 35 (Sl1EEL>
FUZE-T.Mi.Z. 35
SAFETY BOLT
FUZE T.Mi.Z. 42
I
I
!"liA''',,:SlIICHI'' DIAL
The Tellermine 35 (steel) is a modification or Tellermine 35.
It tises either fuze T. ML Z. 42 or fuze T. Mi. Z. 35. If used
wiih fuze T. Mi. Z. 35 (screwed into plate), treat exactly
like Tellermine 35 (page 81.01). Detonator, and adjusting collar
are in place in, the mine. Ifused 'withfuze T. Mi. Z. 42 (screw
plug in "ovei' plate), treat eXilctly li,ke T. Mi. 42 (page
81.03,-c). Detonator and adjusting collar an; removed and a
fuze adapter is installed. Screw plug takes place of hexagonal
' ,
R1 tt..,-h
J
'.
T
I
41N.

SIDE FUZE WElIL.,...-'"
PRESSURE PLATE
PRESSURE CAP. '
TOP VIEW
TYPE. Arititankmine
COLOR. Gray
CAS.E. Steel
WEIGHT. 20 pounds
EXPLOSIVJ:' J2 pounds TNT
EFFECT. Disables ,tanks'
FM 5-31
. 1 NO.V 1943
, BOTTOM FUZE WELL
BOTTOM VIEW
.81,03-a
\ ,
PRESSURE ' PLATE
SPRING,
HEXAGONAL
PRESSURE CAP
RUBBER RING
BOOSTER CHARGE
FUNCTIONING
STRIKER SPRING
i
1. Pressure of 250'400 pounds on pressure plate depresses hex-
ag'1nal cap and top of striker, ,",'
2. shears shear pin, ," , j
3. striker" driven ,by spring" explodes cap,
-booster-main '
81.03-b 'I NOV 1943
, , !
('
GERft1AN TELLERMINE42,
DISARM!,N,G
Mine has shear-pin fuze, Blast or other disturbance may par-
tially shear pill. If. there is evidence of disturban'ce, do not
attempt to disarm or defuze. Destroy iri.place with explosive;
Of, lying "prone, pull mine loose with 50 yards of rope or wire,
drag to a safe place, and destroy, '
IF UNDISTURBED ,
, ,'. Remove hexagonal cap, lift out fuze, and replace cap,
2. Pull out mine 'with 50 yards of rope or wire; or, search fori
'and disarin secondary fuzeS (page 85.ot-a), and .hen lift mine.
FM 5-31 ; NOV 1943 81.03-c
CERMAN TELLERMINE 42.
DEFUZ.ING
In this mine disarming, as explained ,above, is defuzing.
f
INSTALLlNGAND ARMING
(If mine is to be booby-trapped, see 85.ot-b.) .
1. Dig circular hole 7 inches deep, 1 % feet across at bottom,
and 3 feet across aftop. r'-.'" ;.- .,
2 .. Set mine in hole, with handle horizontaL or down-not up:-
3. Remove hexagonal cap, insert fuze. .
4. -Replace cap, cover, mine.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
C),nd fuze separately, 'using either oncp or two-
mine carrying case. Latter, loaded, weighs 51 pounds" One-mine
case, loaded, weighs 28 p0ll:nds.
REUSE
Examine shear pin and .cap fqr deteriqration,/or evidence of
having. been fired. If 'hexagonal" cap is in' place, 'it is almost cer-
tain explosive in mine is in good conditiqn.
SPACE FOR NOTES
, i '
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. !
. ,."' -,-' ',.-\
CERMAN TELLERMINE 43'. (MUSH ROO
7\1 IN. --'----01
l
4 IN.
1
SIDE WELL .. I
12
1
h IN. .
, .... .,.... Ci\RRVING
.... _____ ,
TOP VIEW
TYPE. Antitank
. COLOR. Gray
CASE .. Steel
WEIGH.T. lSp6unds
I, -. .
EXPLC)SIVE. 1 g Pounds TNT
EFFECT. Disables tanks
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
BOTTOM FUZE WELL
BOTTOM VIEW
I
81.04-u
CERMAN TELLERMINE 43i<MUSHROOM) .
PRESSURE PLATE
CHARGE CAVITY
I " '. ' . ,
T. Mi. 43 (mushroom) is a modificatiQn of T. Mi. 42 (page
81.03), uses same fuze (1'. Mi. Z. 42) ,and is handled same
way. Principal diffcrence''is that the 'entire pressure plate T.
Mi. 43 (mushroom), rather 'tlian just hexagonal cap as in T.
Mi: 42, unsc;ews to uncpver fuze. Initial resistance to pres;ure
is provided by thin walls of pressure plate rathe\- than by an
inner -spring.
SPACE FOR NOTES
!
\
81.04-b
, Nnv ' 0 4 ~
.1: .... c ~ .. ,
i '.
. \
CAP
1--..,.-.,..,--+----- 12 IN. -------'--
:;:., FU:ZE BOLTS
TOP VIEW
FUZE NUTS
\
BOTTOM VIEW
TVI'E. Light antitank mine, convertible
COLOR. Gray
CASE. Sheet metal
WEIGHT. 9 pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 5. pounds TNT
. ,
EFFECT. Disables vehicles, breaks tracks on light tanks, sometimes
. 'on medium tanks '
1 NOv 1943
,81,.05-a
,
'.
GUMAN t. P. Z. MINE
/
CI:IAMBER
MAIN CHARGE
CAVITY
FLAME TUBE
BOTTOM COVER
FUNCTIONING
1. "crushes mine covers, pushes one or more fuze hous- '
ings dow'nward over their plungers. ,NOTE. If mine is used
against personnel, bottom fuze nuts / are removed and mine,
resting on threaded end of plungers, is placed on flat, hard
surface. Light pressure on mine cover depresses mine
and forces plungers upward into fuze housings. -
2. Either action compresses .oute.t:, allows steel balls to
be force,d outward iritc) upper recesses, releas.ing. striker.
3. Released striker, driven 'by striker spring, explodes per-
cussion cap.
4. Flame from cap travels through flame tube and cha!llber,
igni'tes
FUNCTIONING OF SAFETY SCREW
When safety screw is screwed tightly clockwise, and line
marked SICHER on screw head? opposite white 'mark on
beveled end on screw closes hole leading to
tonatof.
NOV 1943
',' FM 5-31
/
DISARMING
1. Unlock bayoI}et catches,
move cap above safety screw.
.'. MINE
2. Turn safety screw tight,
clockwis.e, 4ntil line marked
SICHER cqincides with white
on' case. /.
3. Lying prone, pull mine from hole. with 50 yards of wire;
or disarm booby traps and lift mine from hole without tilting, Before
setting down, examine to see if all ,bottorri nuts are ih place. If not,
defuze immediately.
. . .
1. Stand mine 'on edge and remove five top fuze bolts and cap.
holders apd caps.
, 2. Turn mine upside down, remove all bottom nuts.
3. Rempve ' tape' from joint 4". Remove felt from
between' covers, and pry loose fuze bases,' a:q.q lift explosive
botto,m cover. body from top' cover.
5. Unscrew retaining collar, and remove dti!tonator.
6. case. '
FM 5-31-
1 NOV 1943 81.05-c
CERMAN L. p . Z. MINE
INSTALLING AND ARMING
With mine covers, fuze's, and detonators in place...;.-
1. For 'antitank rerpoye cap, .qnSCrClw safety screw.
2. For antipersonnel use, remove bottom nuts from fuzes; set
on- fiat, hard surface'; cap; unscrew ',safety screw. '
PACKING AND TRANSPOItTING .
transport nUne complete with' detonator and fuzes,
safety screw turned down firmly. Safer to transport with cap,
holders ',and caps removed. Wooden box fi'lc mines
weighs ahout 60 pounds. . .
RE.USE. ... \
If tape is undamaged, ;:uid.cap over safety screw is in place,
mine' probably is serviceable. Check to percussion caps aI,"c
in position befefe installing. '
CAUTION
Without nuts on fuze plungers mine IS sci'sensitive that its own
weight is almost ,to set it off.
SPACE FOR NOTES
I:,
8.1.05-d
1 NOV 1943 FM5-31
\
/
(
TYPE. Bounding antipersonnel mine
C,OLOR. Olive-drab
CASE. Steel
/
WEIGHT. pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 6.5 oz. TNT
CERMAN. "S" MINE
-I
EFFECT. Causes casualties up to 150 yards
REUSE
Exam,ine I!line for signs of rust or deterioration around fuze
well, detonat,<?r wells, Qr top edge. If mine has seal around top
edge, and cap on fuze it is in good
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
I ..
CERMAN "S" MINE

DETONATOR WELL
PLUGS'
I
FUNCTIONING.
WELL
Pre'ssure fuze S. Mi. Z. 35, pull' fuze Z. -?:. 35, pull
release fuze Z. U. Z. Z .. 35, or electric fuze E. S. Mi. Z. 40,
, commonly used with this mine. Otper standard German
\, may-be used.
IN ALL TYPE FUZES
1. Flash from fuze sets off 4Yz-second-delay pellet.
2. Pellet ignites black-powder propelling charge.
3. Powder charge projects inner case upward and at same
time ,Rellcts. !' .
4. Short-delay peilets set off detonators 'and charge when
mine is 3 to 7 feet in air. .
5. Main charge scatters 320 steel balls and fragments 'of case,
up to 200 yards.
,
B2.01-b 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
",,',
GERMAN "S" MINE.
DISARMI.NG
Disarming the "s" mine means disarming attached. fuze o.r

1. Insert pin in safety hole. 2 .-Cut tiny trip wires after
, checking anchor ends.
3. Check for booby traps andremove mine fromhole.
DEFUZING
1 . Remove fuze or fuzes. '2. Unscrew three plugs from
detonator wells; remove

3. Replace plugs; place cap on or plug fuze welL
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 82.01-c
CERMAN MINE
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. three screw plugs from detonator wells, insert
either three standard German de,tonators or three United
States non-electric blasting capsi OPEN END DOWN.
2. Replace screw plugs. '.
3. Remove cap from fuze ,well, attach :Rrcssure fuze, or Y
cqrtilector and two pull fuzes. , ' :,: 'I' .
4. Place mine in so that ends' of prongs or pull
rings are just above ground level; if p-ull fuzes used, attach
trip wires, ANCHOR END FIRST:,
5. Cover and camouflage mi,ne; safety"pins.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Store and transport:.i'S" with detonatq'rs removed, plugs
in detonator wells, cap on fuze well.. Watertight, pressed-metal
carrying case, containing three mines, weighs 33 pounds.
en case cO,ntaining three mines' weighs aJ:>out 35 pounds.' Fuzes I
and other accessories are packed, separat,ely.
NOTE .
,
I ,
Some of latest "S". mines have a spring beneath each
well plug: This Holds dj'tonators in contact with short-delay
pellets and' insures u:p.iform explosion; has no effect upon, dis-
anning or installation. In some mines balls are diamond shape;
or pieces of steel ,rod. .
I
82.01-d 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
\
TYPE. Antipersonnel.
COLOR. Gray
PULL FUZE Z.Z. 42
FRAGMENTS
CEMENT CASE
STAKE
CASE; Concrete with inserted steel fragments
, , '
WEIGHT. 4% pounds
EXPLOSIVE. Standard German borehole charge
EFFECT. Causes casualties up to 50 yards
EMPLOYMENT; With trip wires and pull fuze Z. Z. 42, issued with it
Also used whh pull fuzes Z. Z. 350rZ, D. Z. Z. 3 ~ .
FM 5'-31 1 NQV 1943
82.02-0
GERMAN StOCK MINE (CONCRETE)
\ '
,
__ TRIPWIRE
,-..---'--STRIKER SPRlNG,
STRIkER
:""i'H'i-- PERCUSSION CAP
DETONATOR
CEMENT CASE
STANDARD
BOREHOLE CARTRIDGE
,

FUNCTIONING I
1. Pull on trip wire withdraws pin from striker of Z. Z. 42 fuze.
Released striker, by spring sets off percussion
charge, .
82.02-b 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
DEFUZING
IF PULL FUZE Z. Z'. +2 IS USED-
.1. Hold pin' jirmly in place, cut trip wire.
CAUTION I, ,
Upin is partially pulled out, do 'not attempt to disarm,.
plode from safe place by charge placed near mine.
2. Remove fuze and detonator:
I
Ex-
3.' Pull mine and stake with-50-yard length ofwir6. Stake
may be booby-trapped. .
. I' - ,
4. Remove charge from mine.
IF PULL FUZE Z. Z. 35 or Z. U. Z. Z. 35 IS USED, insert
safety pin before cutting trip wire; above procedure.
FM 5-31 NOV 1943 82.02-c
(
j'
,CERMAN STOCK MINE\ (CONCRETE)
'INSTALLING
1. Drive stake until about 5 inches -remains above ground.
2. Assemble mine by in'serting s'tandard borehole
charge 'in bottom screwing into top of charge either pull
fuze Z. Z. 42 or Z. Z. 35, with German detonator. or U. S ..
nonelectric cap attached .
. 3. Impale mine on stake; or, if tree is used, 'tie mine to' tree
and plug hole in bottom. Germans provide cork plug for this.
H fuze Z. Z; 35 is used, drive second st'ake, higher than and
alongside mine, so ,that trip ,wire will run up over it ,and pull
upwards on fuze when tripped.
4. Anchor trip wire.
s. Attach loose trip' wire to pin if fuze' Z. Z.' 42 is used, or to
trip'wire slot if fuze Z. Z. 35 is used. Camouflage,
6. Pull safety pin if pull fuze Z. Z. 35 ;, used.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Wooden containing 'mines wei,gfIs about 39 '
\ Stakes, in bundles of six, furnished with chests. Fuzes, borehole
r charges, and detonators are obtained, from; GCITl1an demblition
stores.
82.02-c1
1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
CERMAN BUTTERFLY BOMB
SAFETY HASP HOLE
Hill YES OF CASE -==--i
TYPE. Antipersonnel bomb
COLOR.
CASE. Sheet metal
ARMEpBOMB
WEIGHT. 4% pounds
EXPLOSIVE. Yellow TN"I; (7.5 oz.)
EFFECT. Causes casualties within a raqius of 50 feet
Dropped from low-flying aircraft.
\ PAC!(ING. AND TRANSPORTING
Container holds 23 bombs.
CAUTION
Three types bf fuze have been found in bornb'. In 41 fuze,
selector:screw' can be set at ZEIT to 'explode- bomb 3 second's
after arming, or at AZ to explode on impact. Clockwork in 67
fuze is adjustable for delays of 10, 20, or 30 minutes. ZEIT
and AZ often are 'stamped on fuze for deception. Fuzes
70 (A) and 70 (B) are anti handling devices, probably similar
in action to that in I taliari jhetmos bomb: Bombs extremely
dangerous when armed them.
FM 5-31
1

/
I
CERMAN Y BOMB
I
UNARMED BOMB
ARMING SPINDLE
I
SPRINGS
FUNCTIONING
1. Container holding 23 bombs opens after falling predeter-
mined allowing bombs to scatter.
2. Springs force apart two halves of bomb case.;
3'. Halves of" case and"two Qutterfly' vanes to top of
spindle' wire; arming bomb;
4. Bomb explodes predetermined time, on: impact, or when
handled, depending on type of fuze installed. '
.' ,
DEFUiZlNG
If case still is closed" bomb 'unarmec;:l and fuze may be re-
moved .. If bomb is armed, wait' 45 minutes To destroy bomb,
build sandbag wall around; it and;. from behind sandbags, pull \
bomb with rope;, Of,' set off small charge, next to' it. '
SPACE FOR NOTES
" U"U UIA'I.
CERMANPRESSURE FUZE S. MI, z. 35 .
pLUNGER
TYPE. Pressure fuze
COLOR. Olive-drab
CASE. Aluminum
EMPLOYMENT
PRONGS
r-'AIN.-I
./
This is the standard- German 'pressure fuze for the US" mine.
Usually only ~ i I ? s of prongs are above ground surface.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
. Use standard German fuze container.
RE.USE
Before reuse, checkfuze by testing safety pin to sec if it can be
withdrawn, ',ind ,looking at cap ;0 see if 'it has been fired. Do '
not test by firing, as fuze can;J6t be recocked without special
tools. . -. \
FM 5-31 .,. NOV, 1943 83.01-u
CERMAN PRESSURE FUZE S. MI.l,. 35
,
\
/
,
OUTER SPR"N(,--
LOCKING BALL
PRONGS
PLUNGER
,.... ___ .- STRIKER
1.
PERCUSSION CAP
FUNCTIONING!
I
1. With safety pin removed, 810 poullds pressure on prongs
overcomes resistance in outer spring, anq depresses plunger . .
2. This permits two 'locking balls to be forced outward,' releas, '
ing striker. "
3. Released striker. driven by striker spring,. explodes
cllssion cap.
DISARMING
Insert pin'or wire in safety hole.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Attach fuze to mine.
2. InstalI mine and camouflage.
3. Remove safety pin.
NOV ,1943
FM
/
CERMAN PRESSURE FUZE D;Z. 35
SAFETY PIN
STANDARD BASE .
BASE CAp,
LARGE TYPE
, / TYPE. Pressure fuze
COLOR. Large type, brown; small type, unpainted
CASE;, Large type, aluminum; small type, brass
EMPLOYMENT
Large typ'e generally used in im provised' wood ,mines; small
type for booby:trappi?g,
DISA.RMING
Insert safety pin inhale of phmger.
DEFUZING
1. Remove fuze and detontitor from charge or mine.
2. Detach detonator from,fuze. No detonator if used w ~ t h "S"
mine.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Use st'andard German fuze container.
RE.USE ,
Examine to see an unfired .cap is in- pblc.e.
FM 5-31
,_ NOV 1943
83.02-0
GERMAN PRESSURE FUZE D. Z. 35
FUNCTIONING
...... ___ PRESSURE CAP
SAfETY PIN
PLUNGER
0L!TER SP,RING
STRIKER -SPRING
:!..-_-- 8ALLS
PERCUSSION CAP
S"""'A'. BASE
I STRIKER SPRING
LOCKING
PERCUSSION CAP
I.
I. Pressure (130-160 pouncjs.for large type, 15-20 poundsfor
small type) on pressure' cap forces plunger downward against
resistance of outer spring.
2. Two locking baHs (large-type fuze) 'or two locking pins
(smaIJ-type fuie) are forced outward into lower open space,
releasing, striker. :, . :,
. 3. Released- striker, driven by striker sets off p'ercussion'
'1
INSTALLING AND ARMING
I. Attach German detonator to base of fuze or wedge United
States nonelectric cap into it.
2. Attach fuze to icharge or min'e'. Detqnator must go inside
mine. I
3. Adjust height of pressure cap. By railing or lowering pres-'
sure cap; vary distance top of mine must be depressed. to bear
on cap, 'thereby varying operating pt:cssure of mirie.
4. R'emove safety pin. . '
) " ' ,
83.02-b
, Nnv UIA1
i \
'-',':'., -<:" , "
RESSURE FUZE' PX 32
TYPE. Pressure fuze
COLOR.
CASE. Metal
. EMPLOYMENT. With improvised mines
DISARMING
ADJUSTING VANE
PRESSURE CAP
SAFETY PIN
SCREW COLLAR
DETONATOR
Remove fuze and attached detonator from charge.
AND ARMING
1. Fuze come with- detonator -attached. If detonator has been
.-'removed, ,remove screw -collar at basel insert standard Getn:tan
detonator, screw on 'coBar to hold iti ph.ee. .
2. Insert in charge ..
3. Remove pin. \
FM 5-31 l' NOV_ 1943
\ .
GERMAN PRESSURE FUZE PX 32
ADJUSTING VANE
PRESSURE CAP
STRIKER
TOGGLE
SPRING
TOGGLE,
FUNCTIONING
RESISTANCE
SPRING
SHEAR PIN
I
SCREW COLLAR
DETONATOR
1, Pressure on pressttre cap overcomes resistance in sprit;lg,
shears shear pin, and forces striker onto percussion cap.
2. Flame froiJ?', percussion cap ignites attached detonator,
FUNCTIONING OF SAFETY
Safety pin hol'ds togi1e in pOsition covering percllssjoh cap.
When pin is toggle spring swings -toggle away, -from
above cap. Fuze should not h,e reus;d if pin is withdrawn.
PACKING ANDTRANSPQRTING
Fuze'transported with' >cap and detonator in place. Use'stand-
ard German mr-tal fuze container.
83.03-b , 1 NOV 1943
,
CERMAN PULL FUZE Z.Z. 35
\
2% IN.
TYPE. Pull fuze
SAFETY PIN
STANDARD BASE
COLOR. Unpainted bras,
CASE. Brass
. EMPLOYMENT
\

Standard for I'S" rp.ines and prepareq for booby-
trapping 1'ellerminel, and' for booby traps employing trip
wires. Thrbaded base fits all sta';dard charges, grenades, and
mines.
PACKING AND TRAN$PQRTING
Use German standard fuze container.
REUSE . .
Check fuze by testing safety to see if it can be withdrawn, and'
look at cap to see if it has been fired. 'Do not test by firing, as.
fuze cannot be reset without spe<;:ial tools. i
._ I,
1 NOV 1943
CERMAN Z. Z. 35
PLUNGER
LOCKI!'IG PINS
PERCUSSION
CAP
FUNCTIONING
)
WIRE
STRIKER SPRING
OUTER SPRING
STRIKER
"I. Pull on trip wire moves plunger upw;lfd against resistance
of outer spring. "
2 . Two locking pins are forced outward when they come op-
pdsite-open spaces, releasing striker. . !
3. Released striker, driven by striker spring, sets 'off percussion
cap.
DISARMING I
1. Insert pin in safety-pin hole.
2. trip wire, checking anchor e,nd .
. /
DEFUZING
\ I'. Remove and detonator from charge or mine.
'2. Remove detonator from fuze. .
INSTALLING AND ARMING
T. Attach German detonator t'o base 'of fuze, or wedge United
States nonelectri{; cap into it. '
,2. Attach fuze to m'ine or charge, detonator inside.
3. Attach loose trip wire, first to anchor then_ to tr:ip wire slot.
4. Unscrevy mit a'nd retTtove safety pin ..
83.04-1>
\
CERMAN PULL-RELEASE FUZE Z. U. Z. Z:35
TIGHT TRIP WII'E-..... ,'.
STRIKER
\
PERCUSSION
CAP
,STANDARD
BASE
TYPE. Either pull or tension-release fuze'
COLOR. Unpainted
CASE. B"f"ss
. EMPLOYMENT
'Used with HS" mines, prepared charges, and booby traps.
FUNCTIO,..ING
PINS
Trip wire on ,this fuze must be under tertsion. Fuze 'Is fired by
pulling on trip wircLor, by loosening, cutting, or breaking it.
1. Pull on trip wire pulls plunger upward against resistance of
outer spring'; two locking pins arc forced outward into upper
open space, relea!;ing'striker ... ' !
2. When trip wire is C1;lt,j?uter, spring forces rphinger down
until two locking pins are forced outward into "lower' space,
releasing striker.
3. In eithct case driven by striker 'spring, sets,
off percussion cap.
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
/- '
GERMAN PULL-RELEASE FUZE t. u.i. Z. 35
DISARMING
1. Insert pin in safety slot.
2. Remove wire; first-checking anchor end.
DEFOZING
I
1_'. Remove fuze and detonator Trotn charge. ,
2. Detach detonktor from fuze.
,. .
INSTALLING AND ARMltiG
1. Attach GenTian detonator to base of fuze, or wedge U. S ..
nonelectric cap into it. . ' ,
2. / Attach -fuze to charge or mine. Detonatof"must go. inside
charge. .
3."Ahchor trip wire. _ i_' _ ' I' -
4. Attach trip to trip-wire slot, adjusting' so that
safety pin comes just past middle of. safety-pin slot. '
5. Remove and pull out safety pih.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTIN.G
Use German standard fUze container.:
RI!USE
fuze to make SUre unfired cap is in place.
NOTES
This fuze has proved sO 'dangerous- td use that a numqer have
been returned to the factory. and modified. The modified fuze
is stamped NUR ZUGZUNDER (dnly pull fuze). Interiqr
wofks are the: but has been cut off end of .
plunger, and fuze is tripped by withdrawal of safety pin to
which trip wire is' ' '
SPACE FOR NOTES
','
\
113.0S-b 1 NOV 1943
FM &-31
/
CERMAN PULL (BAKELITE) FUZE Z. Z. 42
TRIP WIRE SLOT
TYPE. Pull
dOLOR.
CASE. Bakelite
o_-- STRIKER
TRIP PIN
TRIP WIRE LOOP,
EMPLOYMENT. In booby traps and wilh stock mine
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING'
This fuze f0ines as part of STOCK MINE SET. If carried
separately, ;put cap over its base and/or carry in German
standard fuze container.
REUSE,
Before using as pull-type fuze, 'make sure spring is strdng <:nough
to hold safety pin firmly. I' . .
FM 5-3\ 1 NOV 1943 83.06-0
I
)
CERMAN PULL (BAKELITE) FUZE Z.Z. 42
TRIP WIRE SLOT
TRIP PIN
TRIP WIRE LOOP
STRIKER SPIIINC)..,.,p
STRIKER -fi'IEio'.
----CASE
PERcussioN CAP
FUNCTIONING
1. Pufl on trip wire withdraws tip ipin, releasing striker.'
2. Striker, driven by spring, explodes percussion
DEFUZING
1. Hold pin in' position, cut trip wire -near trip -pin.
2. Remove fuze, and detonator from charge.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Attach detollator.
2. Insert iJ charge.
3. Anchor far end of wire.
4; Fasten 'other end to trip pin, making wire jg,inot taut.
NC>TE ,
, '
This fuze be used as a release ftize by removing trip' pin
and holding striker in a cocke,f position with a tight- trip wire.
\' , .
83.06-1>
1 NOV 1943
FM 5_31
I'
/
': .
I
__ PLUNGE. TUBE
LEADS
PIN .{HOLE
i
SPIKE
i
I
TYPE. Pressure
COLOR. lnitiating ft.lZes, black; firing bridge,'ahiminum
.. Initiating ebo'tlitc; firing bddge}

,. .
:To explode German "S" 'mine. For "8" mine, usc a firing
, bridge chains of nipe electric fukes each. ,
FM 5-31
1 .NOV 1943 83.08-0
\
\
CERMAN . ELECTRIC FUZEE. 8.MI. Z. 40
PROI!GS
HOLE
OUTER SPRING
LOCKING BALLS
STRIKER
AMPOULE
-TERMINAL
+ ELECTRODE
- ELECTRODE
I
/'"
PROTECTING CAP
FUNCTIONING
. 1. Pressure on prongs, of electric fuze depresses plunger.
2. Two steel balls disengage froin groove in head" of striker,
releas'ing striker.
3. Striker, driven by sprin'g, breaks-' ampoule.
Electrolyte' in atnpouIe! sets up electric current ,between
electrodes.
s. Current induces flash, in flash tube of fir,ing b,ridge" ex-
ploding mine.
83,08-1> 1 NOV 1943 FM'

, I
CERMAN ELECtRIC (FUZE' E.S. MI.Z. 40
DISARMING
disarm chain of eledric fuzes, remove lead plugs from
sockets in bridge.
To disarm individual electric fuzes, insert nail in
hole in top of plurtgertube.
I ' , "
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. 90nnect in parallel two chains e!ach of nine electric
w,jtll 2 feet 7Y. inches of betweert fuzes, and 1;, feet 3
il'iches between end fuzes and ,plugs. ,
,2. Make._ two furrows in ground to receive wires, -drive down
fuzes to top of safety transit cap.'
3. Test electric leads with lead tester by plugging into tester'
and. shortacircuiting
l
most distant fuze. -.'
4. Unscrew safety' transit cap, release safetYApin rings from
plunger tubes, Cittach\Yithdtaw'arcords to ririgs.
5. Screw firing b:r,-idge "S". mine 'and set mine in U -clamp. ;
6. Insert red plug in red bridge socket, and black in black
7. Pull withdrawal cords. I 1,_,
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Gase carries U-cl,ahlp, bridge, and metal bars each holiding
mineJuzes in sockets.
REUSE
Test leads before re-using.
NOTE
I
Pressure bar, 1 foot 4Yz inches. long, can be placed be,tween
prongs
SPACE FOR NOTES
"
\
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 83.08-c
"
GERMAN ELECTRIC FUZEE; S.MI . Z. 40
SPACE FOR NO'FES
83.98-d 1 NOV 1943
FM !,>_:\'1
RELEASE
RING
CAP HOLDER
"'\.
TYPE. Clockwork
COLOR. Black
,CASE. Aluminum casting or Bakelite
EMPLOYMENT. For
forY4-l1our to21-day delay
\ .
1 NOV 1943
BODY
,
demolitions, May be set
.
CERMAN CUICKWORK . LONC-OELAY FUZE
FUNCTIONING
/
WINDING
-'_---RING

TRIP LEVER
I
STRIKER
STRIKER SPRING
POSITIVE
,- . SAFETY
SPRING ON POSITIVE SAFETY
ARMING SCREW
-.;,..-----' pERCUSSION CAP
1. At end of, delay period, lever arm on rotating c(mtrol disk
in clockworks hears against-trip lever, disengaging striker.
2. Striker, driven by explodes percussion cap in base.
83.09-& 1 NOV 1943 FM -5-31
CERMAN CLOCKWORK; LONG-DELAY FUZE
DISARMING
1 Remove set sc;rew marked SCHARF to allow spring to push
safety block between striker and cap, and screw in plug marked
BLIND. .
2.Turn red mark on release ring from GEHT (go) to
STEHT (stop)". arresting clockwork .
.\ Remove and detonator from charge.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Unscrew cover and wind 'clock by turning cylinder
clockwise. ' .
2. Set time-setting knob for desired delay. Setting is visible
through glass window, TAGE for days and STUNDEN for
hours. .
3. Attach detonator to' cap holder, insert in
4. Remove plug marke.d BLIND and screw in fully set screw'
marked SCHARF.
5'. 'Turn red mark on release- ring from ST'EHT to GEHT.
FM 5-31
1 NOV "1943'
83.09-c
CERMAN CLOCKWORK I LOMd-DELAY FUZE
'PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
individually packed in black wooden boxes stenciled
"J-Feder 504." Cap holder and cocking device inserted in'
welled blocks.
RE,U5E
Test fuze, with percussion cap removed, by setting clockwork
for 74 hour. testing, recock striker with recocking device.,
SPACE FOR ,NOTES
,
1 NO,V 1943
\
,
.
I
/
.
STANDARD ,BASE
V, IN. ,"'
\,
TYPE. Pull-friction fuze
Unpainted
C'ASE. Brass
EMPLOYMENT
Attached to: cithc'r safety 'fuze or detonator to set booby ,traps, to
" booby-trap mines, to ignite stnqkc candles prepared charges.
,DI,SARMING, '. '.
Safe t"handle astound. Fasten safety ring to body of fuze with
tape: to' prevent its being pulled. Discard if ring has been par-"
tially pulled.
\ .
DEFUZING . , I
Remove fuze and detonator from charge, detach detonator.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Fuze is easily 'damaged by moist ute.
with cover cap in plflce on fuze base.
'-fM 5-31
NOV 1943
Pack in waterproof case,
83.10-0
\
'\ .
CERMAN' FRICTION FUIE loseHN. ANI. 29
FUNCTIONIN.G
SAFETY RING
CAP
CONTAINING
FRICTION
1. Pull on trip wire attached to safetyrmgseparates qap and.
hook from body: . . . .. .
Hook 'draws coated wire through friction -compound, caus-
ing flame to spC?ut out opening in_ threaded base. \ /
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Attach German detonator ito b,ase of fuze, or wedge United
States none,lec:trie cap into It. I,.ength saftey fuze may be .
inserted between fuze and detonator. "
2. Attach fl'lze to mine or charge. Detonator must be inside:'
3. Detach safety ring from side of mine.
4. Attach. loose tripwire to safety ring.
l ,
'NOV 1943
FMi 5-31
\ 1
,
REMOVEABLE
HEAD
STANDARD
BASE
, .
2'AlIN.
,I
. TYPE. Pull friction fuze
\ COLOR. Field gray.
'I
CASE. Alumi",um
EMPLO),MENT
Primarily used for the ignition of safety fuze in demolition
work, Also used to ignite smoke candles, to booby-trap Teller-
mines and and to' set off improvised mines and b_ooby
traps;
PACKIIliG AND TRANSPORtiNG
Important" to keep -fuze dry. With and base cover in place
fuze is 'waterpJ;'oof. However, it should IJc stored and
I transported in a' watertight .-container.
I
'FM 5-31 ,1 NOV 1943 83.11-a
,
CERMAN FRICTION FUZE ZIlSCHN.ANZ. 39
LEFT HAND
THREAD
, 5T ANDARD BASE
FUNCTIONING,
WITH CAP REMOVED
1. A pui! on pull disc and' cord-
COATED WIRE
FRICTION COMPOUND
. 2. Draws coated wire through the friction compound-
3. And 'ignites the friction compound, which shoots flame out
the open end of ;he threaded base.
DISARMING
1. Unfasten pull cord from anything to which it might be
attached.
'-,2. Remove fuze and detonator from charge.
3. Detach detonator from fuze' and replace cap '.if' available.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Attach German' detomi.tor to base of or U. S.
nonelectric cap into it.
2. Attach "fuze to mine. must be-inside.
3. Remove cap (left hand thread to distinguish from friction
fuze B. Z'. E;), 'attach trip wire, -and conceaL
REUSE
Examine for -signs of water deterioration, before
83.1l-b .

1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
i .
I
,
I
\,
BODY
DELAY PELLET CONTAINER ---'--,-+--1
TYPE. Pull
COLOR. Head blue when used with "egg" grenade; red when used
with flare \ .
CASE. Brass body; s,teel tube
EMPLOYMENT. Generally with "message bOx" smoke flare and
"egg"- or I "shaving stick" ,
RE.USE
, I . .
Check for presence of delay pellet in steel tube,
, I
NOTES
Blue" used with "egg" . grenade giv,es delay.
Red- pellet used with smoke flare' gives 1-second
delay.
CAUTION
Germans vary color of head and length of delay. AlWays check
delay before using.
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
\
83.12-a
GERMAN FRICTION FUZE B.l.E. WITH DELAY PELLET
- ' \. -- !
.\
FRICTION
COATED WIRE -- ...:.,.,...:.
DELAY PELLET
FU,NCTIONING
-, 1. When head is unscrewed- and \ cord pulled, coated wire
ignites friction compound- in hotly. /".
2. FJame from compound sets offdeJay pellet in tube.
3. Burning pellet ignites>.attached or detonator.
DISARMING
When head is screwed to body, fuze is safe 'to handle. If fuze
is found with trip wirc-
1. Cut trip ncar pull wire.
2. Unscrew head of fuze.
INSTALLING AND "ARMING
1. Screw into grenade or' flare.
2. UnsCrew head of fuze (right hand thread to distinguish
from friction fu?"') Zdschn. Apz. 39).
83.12-b 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
nr ...... n." .. ,. ..
\

I
, .
TYPE. Pull
PULL lbop
LEAD'SHEATH
\
STEEL TUBE.
BRASS FITTING
CASE. Soft lead sheath; b.rass fitting; ,!tie! tube
l
EMPLOYMENT: B. 2.24 fUze generally used with "stick" grenade;
. 'Nb. B. 2. 38 with smoke grenade.
RE.USE , .. ,
Makesure lea4 sheath is flatten'ed at end, to prevent accidental
fidng., .
NOTE
Band at base of lead sheath 0;' Nb. B. Z .. 38 appears to'be white.
Pellet in B. Z. 24 igniter has 4?1,-seconc;l delay. . i '
CAUTION
Duration of delay frequently is reduced in booby-trap installa-
I " tions, making grenades dangerou,s.
, \
fM 5-31 1 ,NOV 1943 .83.13-a
OrI.'TDII'TCn
CERMAN FRICTION FUZES H.Z.24.
AND NH. B. Z. 38. WITH DELAY
..
PUll LOOP _. --+,A.
LEAD SHEATH
',J
FRICTION WIRE' '
FRICTION" COMPbuND
\ STEEL TUBE
DELAY PELLET
FUNCTIONING
I. When pulled, loop is freed from flattened lead sheath, drJw-
ing coated wire,' through friction compound in capsule.
2. Resulting flame ignites delay pellet. .
3. pellet ignites fuze or, detonator attached to fitting .
. DISARMING
Enclose pull loop completely in lead sheath, flatten sheath; or, .
cut pull loop near friction w:irb., ' .
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Unscrew cap
2. Screw entire f1.J.ze into he'ad end of grenade,
.3. Attach fuze loop to trip cord in grenade.
83.13-10
1 NOV 1943
......... __ ._---
FM 5-31
FUZE WELLS
... BODY __ ...:
TYPE. Improvised antitank mine
COLOR. Tan
CASE. Aluminum alloy from salvaged aircraft
WEIGHT. 14 to 16Y. pounds'
EXPLOS,IVE. 7 to 9 pounds of cheddite with tolite boosters
EFFECT. Disables tanks
PACKING ANI) TRANSPORTING /'
(
In transporting, remove' fuzes 'and tape over
, holes in liq.
RE.USE
IJ T. 'Mi. Z. 42 fuzes are used, make 'sure shear pins are, not
partially cut. .
NOTE
Can be detected by mine detector.
FM 5-31
1. NOV .1943
84.01-a
CERMAN ALUMINUM MINE
CHARGE,CAVITY
FUNCTIONING
PRESSURE FUZE D.Z. 3S
HOLE IN COVER
FOR EXTRACTING
SAFETY PIN
1. of 130 pounds on sides to 390pouilds in center
depresses cover and sets off one more of pressure fuzes,
either German D. Z. 35 or T. Mi. Z. 42. .
.2. Fuzes explode ..
DISARMING
1 Remove cover.
2; If fuzes are D. Z. insert nails or stout wires in safety-pin
holes; 'if T. i. 42, remove from mine.
'DEFUZiNG,
1. Remove D. Z. 35 fuzes ..
2. Unscrew detonators from fuzes.
3. Replace cover.
ARMING AND INSTALLING
1. Screw detonators on 'fuzes, making" Ture safety pin is in-
serted in D. Z. 35 fuzes. !
,2. Remove'mirle cover.
3. Install fuzes, making. sure heads. arc adjusted'
equally. '
4. Replace cover ..
5. Remove safety pins .from D. Z. 35 fuzes by pulling on at-
tached cords.
84.01-b .1 NOV 194,\
FM 5-31
/
TYPE. Antitank mjne
COLOR. Tan
CASE. Wooden bOl<
WEIGHT. 7 to 20 pounds
-/ EXPLOSIVE
,5 to 18 pounds of trinol, borehole charge (model 28), or metal- ~
container HE charge (models 24 and 28).
I '
"FM 5-31 1. NOV " ~ 4 3 84.02-J1
, \ !'
CERr.,AN IMPROVISED WOODEN BOX MINES
FUNCTIONING
1. on hinged or loosely lid' depresses pres-
sure cap of pressure fuze, usually D.Z. 35 type.
2. Fuze dC,ton'ator in prepared charge, which acts as
, ' booster main charge-.
DISARMING
1.' for pull fuzes. 1(one is aqachedto liof mine,
cut pull' wire -and remove lido; br, from covered' pbsition, pull
off lid with 50 Yards of rope or wire.
2. 'Insert safety pin in pressure fuze.
,
DEFUZING
1. Unscrew pressure fUze from prepared charge.
2. From. pUll9ut mine' with 50 yards of rope
or wire. '
Wait a,t 10' before leaving in case'
,delay-actionsecqndary fuze has been attached.
: . I
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Place box P'lcked with explosive ill hole. (
2. Attach pull fuze,to side or bottom.
3. Screw into prepared'charge pressure fuze with detonator.
4. If feasible, attach pull fuze to lid,
5. Remove safety pins. _
6. Cover with to 6 inches of earth;. camouflage.
REUSE
Inspect ellplosive carefully for deterioration. ,
NOTE . '. ,. I " .,'.
Mines 'buried 5 to 6 inches cannot be detected by mine detector.
SPACE,F()R NOTES
I
j
84.02-b r NOV 1943 fM 5-31
\
__
STEEL STRAP

TYPE. Arititank
COLOR. Natural
CASE. Wood
1 BY 12 IN. R.R. RAIL
, \
EXPLOSlYE. Three or more standard kilo cartridges
EFFECT. Disables tanks'
.EMPLOYMENT
Laid at crossing, simulating ramp to 'assist vehicles in
crossing 'rails. '
. FUNCTIONING.
Pressure on hinged plank depresses pressure caps' on three '
Ipressure fuzes, settix:g off caps-detonatqrs-kilo
cartridges.
DEFUZING
1; Examine for booby-trapping.
2. Cut tie wires and lift lid.
3. Insert safety pins in D. Z. 35 push fuzes.
4. Remove fuzes from charges, charges from 'mine.
INSTALLING
Use procedure for installing- any improvised mine
using b. Z. 35 fuzes.
)
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
84.03-a
,I -
"
,
!
.\','
The Germans '1su.Jlfbooby-trap mines to make removal
of their mine ,fields and road bloCks more hazardous and
pme-consuming, The number booby-trapped clepends upon the
lime spent in laying. the field, and on its importance. For tliis
purpose the 'J;e1lermiries -have two secondary fuze I one
in the side and the other in the bottom. (See sccti.ons 81.01-
81.04, Te!lermines.) Any of the stalldard pull fuzes, with de'
!onator,aitached"fi ts into thesewells.
, ;
DISARMING AN,D I)EFUZING '
, To disarm and defuze a bObby-trappeq: _ mine, cautiously iun-
cover top_ of mine and disarm 'main Then remove mine ,by
a rope or wire and pulling it 'from the hole.
IF A SILENT LIFT ISRERUlRED-+ " ,
, 1 ,Cautiously. upcover top of mine and disarm main Juze.
jI. Gradually scoop earth away from sides of mine until ,ec-
ondary fuze on sideJs found., .
ill D\sarrjl side fuze. , .' "
4. Commence about 6 inches from edge of mine and dig be-
p_eath.it;-locating bottom fuze., ,. .
S. Disarm bottom fuze.
p. Qut both trip wires, femoye mine ft'om hole.
r .. ,Remove fuzes frqrn mine.
'1\\ 5-,3.1

RESTRICTED
'.
CERMAN BOOBY-TRAPPED TELLERMINES
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Dig a hole Yz-fo6t deep, 1 Yz feet in diameter at bottom}
and 3 feei at the top. .
2. Dig two trenches into hole,. each about one hand wide.
Make _one tr'ench %-f09t -deeper than and extend ..
ing to -its middle, the other same depth as mine- hole and ex-',
tending about l foot from side.
3. Drive stake, at end of each trench.
-4. Attach standard Genhan detonators, of/wedge,V. S. non,-
,electric caps into bases of two putl fuzes. - ,
s. Insert pull fuzes in in Tellermine.
6. Attach short length of trip wire to trip-wire slots and s,)-fety
pins..an fuze's. "
, 7-. Place mine in hofe;- loose ends of trip wires t.o stakes,
arrange safety-pin wires for easy removal.
8. Fill bottorrl' hole; rem-ave safety pin from bottom -fuze.
9. Fill around sides of mine, safety pin frpm side fuze.
10. Arm main fuze. ' ,
1/1. Cover mine'.
FOR NOTES
8S.01-b
RESTRICTED
,
/
/
1 NOV 1943
. ,
FM 5-31"
/
GERMAN.
. FRICTION FUZE B.Z.E
\
SHAVING $TICK
GERMAN
FRICTION FijZE a.Z.E.
, German grenades employ a friction fuze with a 4%-second
, delay pellet so thegreriacje the target before.exploding,
Friendly troops using captured grenades sometimes filld they
explode immediately uP91l pulling i\le This"means
grenades have been booby-trapped by removing t\le delay pellet.
Before using captured grerlldes, examine as follows: '. .
, I, Remove fuze. from olle gre"ade, examine pellet, jerk pull
wire, and time its delay before firing.
2. all fuzes. Pell,et, located in tul)e between fuze and
base, should be solid ancj dry,'A pin hole through it will make
it burn much more rapicjly.
3. If pellets ,are same as.one tested,reasse'1'ble grFnades and
markthem wIth delay peflod. ." .' ;
FM 5-31 I NOV 1943 8$.02...:.a,
CERMAN BOOBY-TRAPPED CRENADES
This booby-trapping is ,!,ost easily with grenades em-
ploying friction fuze B. Z. E., with delay pellet. F'rictioll fuze'
Zdschn. Anz. 39, having the sam'e 'general 'but no
delay pellet is substituted. It may be identified either by color
or by the fact its remoyable head has left hand tljreag
. rather than right hand thread a; in friction fuze B. Z. E. .
. SPACE fOR NOTES
B5.02-b 1 NOV 1943
,FM
CERMAN PUSH-FUZE TRAPS
CHARGE PRESSURE FUZE
Germans leave for the unwary to tread on, par-
ticularly in but also in the' fields, The fuze
friay be S. Mi. Z. 35, or Es. Mi., Z.40. The
charge may a grenade, one or 'more slabs of
tolite, a TCI1crmine, 6r a or, bomb. To find and disarm
''';
1. Exaf!iin;e c;:arefully for pressure devices all loose ,floor
QQa),ds, trench areas j\lSt in front of wheels of abandoned
vepicles, any p.isturbed patches of ground, and 'similar
locatiors. ",' .
2. Identify fuze :y \
Re'move fuze anq 9cton-atQf from charge, and charge from
its locations. '
FM 5-3.1
,1 NOV 1943
85.03-0
I
.,
\'
TRIP WIRE (PULLED WHEN I(NOB IS TUlINEDl
German fuzesJZ. Z. 35, Z. U. Z.:'Z. 35, and the various friction'
fuzes, are commonly used in,booby traps. 'The above illustration
of a booby-trapped door is a simple example. The charge
. employed usually consists of t",o to eight slabs of Tolite, two
to eight cartridges;/an "S" m.i'ne, Tellerrnine, or ,onl'
-or mqre grenades, To discover these traps and disarm, them--
I. Never disturb any movable object without first searching
for attached trip wires. ' ,
2. ;Follow all trip wires to their source',
3. Identify fuze and disarm.
4. Remove fuze arid detona,tor from charge, aQd' charge from
its .location. '
FM 1 NOV 1943
)
\
A favorite German trick is to leave large charges of explosive
..-as much' as 2;000 pound,s-in abandoned buildirigs. Base-
ments are 'favorite locations, though stoves, chimneys,
attiCs, 'and cupboards have- been used. Clockwork fuzes-.arc
used, 'set for delays from several hours to many days. To find
, 'and disarm this type of booby trap- ' ,
1;. Systematically' search all buildings, particul,arty prominent
ones, since, Germans booby-trap them on theory they will be
used for higher headquarters, Look in all nooks and cqmies,
examine all piles of rubble, being careful of other types of
booby traps.
2. If found, either rope off building and area as unsafe, or
find and disarm fuzes and remove charges carefully, piece
,by piece.
1 NOV 1943 85.05-a
nrl\ ... nl" ...... 1\
I.
..
I'
".,

,
. ,
',':",
HUN G A HI A N
MIN E fA C TIC S, M IN ES,
, .
AND F ~ Z E S
, I
!
(
:,i I '1 "
I .
/
\
\
/
HUNqARIAN 'VARIABLE
10 IN.
14--------'.-'-- 8 IN. -..:.:-----'--'--.1
. . - " , .
. TYPE, Anti,tank adjustable fdr use against personnel by either
pressJ.lre or trip w!re.
C;:OLOR. Oliye-arab 'or black
C;:ASE. Sleel
WEIGHT.S pounds
pounds of TNT
! I
EFFECT. Breaks t,mk tracks. Effective up to 25' yards
,I \ " I
AIliD TRANSPORTING
As w;ooden plug with threaded tap is in' fuze
well. PIate is held in pIace above this by placing split pins in
iupper holes in studs. Six: 'fuzes are in separate, circular,
steel carrying case. Six mines and one case of fuzes are strapped
together in a long cylinder by slots in mine lids. Total wdght,
about 55 pounds.
fM 5-31 ' \ 1 NOV 1943 91.01-a

PRES$URE C.V.P.
SETTING RING
SAFETY PIN
SHEAR BLADE .
FUNCTIONING
1. Pressure on pressure plate depresses plunger, compressing
striker spring and striker.
2. Striker ,is forced downward against resistance of 'she.ar
blade which cut, thro,!g.h triangular brass flange on sideof
striker. " .
3. Releasc'd striker, driven bystriker spring, sets off percussion
cap-:-detortator-b6oster....:.--main
91.01-b 1 NOV '-943
FM 5-31
HUNCARIAN VARIABLE PRESSURE "MIME C.V.P.
FUNC;:TIONING' OI'SEttlNG RING
Operating pressure -for tQjs 'mine is varied by' rotating the set-
ring. Eccentric ,on base of riI1g proJects into slot
in blade and moves in or out as ring is revolved. This
varies' amount and thickness 'of triangular flange on striker
through which blade must cut; hence varies operating pressure
of mine. Red'setting mark -on rjt}g, and scale on igniter body.
indica.t'e settings follows.: ' ' ,
SETTING
K
1
2
3'
N
H

OPERAtiNG PRESSURE.
(Pounds)
77
220
440
690
770
When set at '';fJl' mine can be
by pulling on trip wire
attached to s\lear blade.
1. "Cut trip' wires,' if ,any, pressure on shear
blade; remove pins from remove pressure plate.
2. Insert heavy piece of wire or. 16-penny nail into safety-bolt
hole. .
FM 5..31 1 NOY 1943
91.01-(
HUNCARIAN VARIABLE PRESSURE MINE C.V.P:
DEFUZING
, " , .
1. If setting ring is at 'H," press in shear blade.
2. Unscrew- fuze:
3. Replace"pressure cover, hold in place by pins or wire in;
upper holes in studs"
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Set ring for desired pressure.
2. fuze in mine, set mine in,hole.
3,. Attach ring setting "H'" is used.
4 .. Placeco'ver on mine, pins in lower stud holes.
5. Cover, cflmouflage. ,
6, Withdraw safety pin by attache(lstfing.
RE.USE
, . Check both fuze and fuze wet! for dampness or deterioration,
Before fuze in mine, safety pin by pulling out.
II it does not come easily, strikerhlis fallen anti its shoulder is
safety. Discard and ,usc;:
91.01-d
I
/
1 NOV 1943
I.
/
HUNCARIAN RAMP 'MINE
TYPE.' Antipersonnel mine
C,OLOR."Green
CASE. Metal
WEIGHT. 5 pounds
EXPLOSIVE., 2 pounds TNT
EFFECT. Causes casual\ie; to personnel up to 20 yards
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
/
92.01-a t,
HUNCARIAN RAMP MINE
CHARGE
"
FUNCTIONING,.
With mine set for pressure firing, striker is held in cocked posi-
tion by tongue of stand, which projects' downwl;rd through,
hole in striker handle. ' " .
1. Pressure' on mine- cover" presses whole mine \
releasing striker.
2. Released striker; driven by' striker spring, sets off percussion
cap-detonator-,-booster-main charge.
With xnine .set' for trip-wire firing, striker is' 'held -in cocked
position by safety pin wilh trip 'wire attached. Stand is not.
used. ...J.-
1. Pull' on ,trip wire withdraws safety pih, releasing striker.
2. striker, driven by striker spripg; sets off mine.
, 92.0' ....
1 NOV 1943

l
2. If mine is set for firing by trip wire, cut wire.
\ .
1 NOV 1943 92.0t-c
HUNCARIAN RAMP MINE

1. Unscrew and remove fuze and detonator:
2. Detach detonator fr'om fuze.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
. 1. Attach detonator to fuze. . '. ,_
Cock -striker and insert safety pin in either hole.
3. Ipsert tongue-of stand in c?ther hole.
4. Install fuze.
5. Place mine in position and attach trip wire to safety pin if .
trip wire is t'o be used.' ,
6. Withdraw safety pin if stand is used.
PACKING AND TRANSPORtiNG
Transported with fuze separate.
SPACE FOR NOTES
92.01-<1 1 NOV 1943
FM 5-31
ITALIAN
MINE TACJIC_, MINES,
. . '
, "
AND FUZES
i.
J
!
T
SIN.
l
'SAFETY
,PIN HOLt::
, I,
.SAJ::ETY PIN HOLE
) TYPE. Light antitank m i n ~ .
COLOR . Black
CASE. Welded sheet steel
WEIGHT. 33.potmds
HINGED LlbS
EXpLOSIVE. Two 4.pound charges, probably TNT
EFFECT. Disables tanks
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
101.01-a
ITALIAN B-2 MINE
FUNCTIONING
1. pressure of 300 pouhds or more moves coyer downward
against compression of springs. . .
2., Edge of cover moves end of lever enough ,to free its. hold
in striker. At -same ,time cutter shears wire, releasing. striker:
3. Striker spring forces striker against percussion cap.
4. Flame from cap ignite's detonator which sets off two cQrd-
tex 'fuzes--charg,es., ,", . .
lO1.01-b NOV 1943
FM 5-31'
n r r t o T n r n ~ r n
. DISARMING
,. Uncover mine, feeling for )trip wires. Attach 50-yard rope
01' wire to both lids and pull open froni cover position.
< 2. Insert strong wire through safety pin' holein side of ' cover,
. case, and fuze h6using.
, .
DEFUZIN$
1. Remove cap holder and cap.
2. Withdraw safety pin and .lift off cover.
3. Unscrew' and remove detonator.
Release bn striker spring by turning screw head.
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
101.01-c
ITALIAN B-2 MINE
INSTALLING AND. ARMING . ,
1. Open hinged lids of cover, and striker spring by turn-
ing knurled thumb screw until 'safety lever faUsl
2. Insert detonators and attach cordtex.
.3. Insert safety pin i'; hole through side of box.
4. Insert cap' in rell"\ovable holder and place in slot opposite
detonator. " I' _ .
S.Close thc lids, cover mine with earth, and dil-
tance Withdraw safety pin,
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
.. Mine
porting.
RE-USE
ii defuzed completely before packing or trans-
I
" Examine for evidence' of deterioration, or damage caused
by blast or handling: .
SPACE FOR NOTES
. \
"
\
I
101.01-d NOV 1943 FM 5-31
..
.ITALIAN FOUR-FUZE MINE
TYPE.' A n t i t a ~ k miIie
COLOR. Camouflage-painted .
eASEL Wooden. box
WEIGHT. 14% pounds
EXPLOSIVE. 11 pounds of TNT
. FM 5-31 1- NOV 1943
, .. ,
101,03-0
. .
IJALIAN' FOUR-FUZ( MINE
FUNCTIONING
When armed with friction fuze
1. Pressure ,of 100 360 pounds on cover, crushes .6rte' or
more fuzes'. .
Flash from in: explodes,
, tonator.
3. Detonat9t eX'plodes mi.ne.
ITALIAN FR,tellON FUZE
ITALIAN PERCUSSION FUZE
When armed'with' percussion fuze
1. Load on Cbver fotces fuze lid downward,
2. Fuze lid orushes' bakelite suppor,ting' \ crines and forces
strikers down. . .,
, 3. Upturned., cone at base of strikerbl'eaks apart Mkelite
striker' sleeve, 'permitting striker tp c.on'tin'ue downward. ,
'4. Striker fires percussion cap. .. . , -
.5. '. Flame from cap explodes detonator-main charge.
, - .. ':' 'i
-- ,:
\
DISARMING
AVOId app(yin:
g
on false 'pressure lid. If mine appears
, deteriorated, ,or disturbed by blast or artillery ,fire,
haridlpIaced charges. '
I " ' "',
,I)EFUZING
3.,' [roin type fuzes. Det,onators,
'are not detacHable from frictionlype.
4. Plug arming holes prepare mine for transport.
FM 5-31 I NOY 1943 '
101.03-c
ITALIAN FOUR-FUZE MINE
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1., Remove cover.
2. Remov,c detonators and fuzes from storage recesses,
3. Fasten' detonators to fuzes and insert into corner holes.
4. Replace cover and fasten clips.
5. Place mine ,in hole; with cover 2 to -3 inches below ground
surface ..
6. Cover with and camouflage. '
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Before transporting,. each mine is packed as follows:
1. Insert wooden spacer cubes with pins in -four fuze holes.
2.' Place fuzes upside down in circular' recesses in lid piece.
3. Store detonators in wooden block. Lug on block fits into
another circular recess in lid
RE-USE
Make sure dowel_ pins in cover are not sheared. In-
sp'ect fuzes_for cracks. '
NOTE
MIne was designed' to avqid detection by mine detectors. How- .
ever American detector detects mine at 6 inches.
101.03-d 1 NOV FM
\
I
\ '
PRESSURE COVER
'\
HEADS
.E"CU"SIC)N CAP
TYPE. Antitank mine
CASE. Wooden box
EXPLOS.IVE. 5% pounds
FUNCTIONING.
, : '
CHARGE
1. Pressure of 185 to 380 pounds on cover ,hears copper shear
_pins. . I
2. Spfings drive strikers onto percussion caps.
3. Caps explode det6nators-m:;in ,charge.
FM 5-31 \ I, NOV 1943
101.04-0
"
/-
ITALIAN WOODEN-BOX MINE
DISARMING
Inspect for booby traps before moving, ,
DEFUZING
1. Remove
2. Lift .out fuzes,
3; Remove detona-tors.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Remove cover.
2. IIlsert detonators in holes in mine Hd.
3. Plate fuzes in detonators. ,
4. Replace_cover and fasten with wire handles.
S. aur)' and camouflag.",
REUSE
Make shear pi,ns are not partially sheared.
SPACE FOR NOTES
)
.-:,. \
101.04-b ,. NOV 1943
-./
..... __ ....... _--
\
- I, 1
FM 5-31
" \'
,l,
7% IN.
!M---...... ,CAP HOLDER
SPIRAL FRAGMENTATION
STRIP
WOOD PICKET
\
TYPE. Antipersonnel mine and trap
COLOR. Gray
\
CASE. Sheet meial surrounded by, steel spiral
1% pounds'
EXPLO.SIVE. 3Y,;ounce borehole
EFFECT. Effective fragmentation within radius of 10 yards; dan--
. at I.
EMPLQ,YMENT. As antipersonnel mine in forward areas.
FM 5-,31 1 NOV 1943
102.01-a
RESTRICTED'
ITALIAN PICKET MINE
.... STRIKER HANDLE
TRIP WIRE ---_"
!miiillliilr""----- CAP.HOLDER
PERCUSSION CAP
DETONATOR -'----..,---
MAIN CHARGE
/
WOODEN PICKET ---.,--..
FUNCTIONING .\
pin holds striker in cocked position.
1. PulL on trip.wire pin releases striker. c
2., Striker/driven by striker spring sets off
main charge.
102.01-b
1 NOV 1943
FI\) 5-31
RESTRICTED
/
DiSARMING
1. Avoid all trip wires and
slide cap holder to safety po
sition.
2. Cut trip wires.
..
3. Remove pin. and lower striker gently. Notch in. cap hold" ..
engages end of striker when holder is' in safe position.
4. Replace pin in upper hole. . .. -
DEFUZING'
r. Remove percussion cap from',holder.
2. Unscrew striker group and remove deto.nator.
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
ITALIAN PICKET MINE
, I ,
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Drive picket in ground to form' hole for
mine. Remove.
2. Place mine upright in hole, with 7% irtch:es extending
above ground. \ '
3. Insert detonator and screw 6n striker gr,oup.
4. Lay trip wire and anchor other
5. Raise striker and insert pin in bottom hqle,
6. Attach'trip wire to'pin. I \
' 7. Camouflage , '
'\
8. Place cap in cap holder, and push to
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
WoOden box contains 20 mines, and one'metal-cov-
ered wooden picket 15 inches long a";d 1 Y:i in dialneter.
NOTE
Itis possible to arm this mine by inserting the safety pin in the
top hole. Disarm by pulling up on striker and sliding cap
holder to safe position. '
SPACE tOR NOTES
102.01-d 1 NOV 1943
\ FM 5-31
/
FLAP,FOR
, SPOOL RECESSES
C ~ P _
HOLDER
TYPE., Antipersonnel mine
COLOR. Black
CASE. Sheet metal
WSIGHT. 2% pounds
EXPLOSIVE. %-po'!nd powdered TNT
EFFECT. Causes casualties within radius of 10 to 15 yards,
, FM 5-31
TRIP KEY
LEVER
TRIP
CORD
. 1 NOV 1943 '
TRIP KEY
102.02-a .
. RESTRICTED. '
ITAUANB4 MINE ,I
CAP
HOLDER'
BOOSTER
CHARGE
I '
CAVITY
DETONATOR
FUNCTIONING
1. When wire is releas'ed, or _ of' two: trip
is pulled, keyhole slot in trip key disengages striker.
2. Striker, driven' by striker :spring, sets off percussion
detonator-bo6ster-m,ain charge.
102.02 ....
1 !'IOV 1943
FM 5-31
R
\
DiSARMING
Do not cut cords Of wires. Insert nail or stout wire in safctyw
pin p.ole in striker.
j
1. Pull percussion.cap holder straight out of side of mine.
2'. Cut cords and wire.
FM 5-31 1943
102.02-c
RESTRICTED
ITALIAN B4 MINE
3. Disengage key frorn,.triker.
EMPLOYMiENT '
, ' " !
In antitank mine fields, laid in irregular line in front of field.
In wire obstacles, spa-ced about.1) yards apart. In antipersOnnel
mine' fieldS:: laid 7 to 10 yards apart in combination with.a few
German mines. As booby traps. .
, , ' \
INSTALLING AND ARMING
, 1. ,I Anchqr far erid's of cords and wire to wooden pegs, bushes,
or the like.'
2. Attacl) other ends of pull cords to and other "e,nd
of tensiori wire to 'lever, passing all three. guide ,ring.
Leave pulJ cords loose, tighten 'tension wire until' there is a
, y,\,ihch gap between trip key and nose of ICvet. '
3. Insert safety pin and engage trip key with striker. '
4. Insert cap and cap holder in, side of mine. Make sure holder,
, , is turned 'so cap .is' dircctly'beiow point of.. striker.
5. From safe'di$tance, withdraw, safety. pin i?y a long cord.
; PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Mines are shipped in wooden packing bOlles, 2Zx 25% x :i
inches. Each box holds, thke rows ,of :seven imines, on' their
SIdes. Mines arc shipped complete, for percussion -caps.
o I' , ,'.
RE-USE
'1. :ftemovc screw plug and make" sure booster charge has
notleakcd out., , ' , 1\ ,', '
2. Make sure percussion cap "is fitted t,o cap h<;>lder.
, , <
,NOTES i
1. Spools, of cord and wire ,: are stored in recesses: in' top sec-
tion 'of mine. I l !", .
2. Pin from flap can be as a safety
, I
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102.02-d 1 NOV 1943
FM 5-31
HE T
I
CAP
CASE
U!I/ARMED ARMED BOMB
TYPE .. Antipersonnel bomb,
. COLOR. Buff or. green'
CASE. Metal cylinder resembling thermos bottle
WEOGHT, ay. pounds
. 1% pounqs TNT
EFFECT. pauseli,casualtiesto personnel up to 150 yards
EMPLOYt<r1E",T. Dropped from planes in large numbers; design
inpic'4tes :use as antipersonnel mine.
I ,:
i
1 NOV 1943
I 102.03-0
FM 5-:11
RESTRICTED
ITALIAN THERMOS BOMB
FUNCTIONING
\ 1. As bomb falls, vanes rotate, u:f1scrcwing aluminum nut,
holding cap' on. '
2. Cap is pulled off by projecting tabs.
3. Removal of cap releases six clips whicH partially arm bomb.
4. When bomb lands, it is fully armed by internal action in 'a
few seconds. ' ,
5. BOlub now will explode if moved.
DISARMING
Do not try to disarm destroy it.
I. Explodes by small.arms fire from safe distance, or by small
charge next to it. : .
2. Coil rope on gro1md aroundliomb without touching it,
and jerk on rope from safe distance.
If bomb must be moved, carry it gently and never'
vertica:l1y. Destroy in safe
,RE-USE
Impossible. ,
CAUTION
When armed, bomb is extremely sensitive to any jerk -or jolt.
Never touch it except in extreme emergency, and theh only
with greatest care. If it is to be exploded, soldier exploding'
it, or aJ:lY nearby instailations, can be protected by sandbags.
SPACE FOR,NOTES /
r
I02.03-b 1 NOV 1943
RESTRICTED
" '
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j' )
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JA P ANI.ES E
MIN E ~ T ACT I CiS I MINES I. i
L
.AND FUZES
, '
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i '
\,1
/
IN.---'------"-'--...
TYPE. Antitank mine
COLOR . Olive-dra'1, wit)l ring on top
CASE. Tin
WEIGHT. 3 pounds
,-EXPLO,IVE.2 pounds picric acid "
EFFECT. Disables vehicles. Used in groups of three to disable tanks.
,
RE.USE
Mines can he reus,eo if shear pin is rial cut or cut, and
if the mines are good condition: '
. FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943 111.01..:.a
, ,
JAPANESE ANTITANK MINE, TYPE 93
CAP
CAP
DET<;INATOR,
FUNCTIONING
1. Two' hundred and fifty pounds pressure applied on pressure
plug depreSses striker pin and cuts shear pin.
2. Spring drive's striker pin firing 'cap-
detonator-booste'r-main, charge.
111.01-1> 1 NOV 1943
FM
,! "
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DISARMING
1. Examine area arQund mine for booby traps.
2. moving ,nUne or exerting any pressure on pressure
plate unscrew brass pressure plug. .
3. Screw brass safety cap, if available, firmly into top of fuze;
similarly, if combiriation washer arid sleeve are available place
them over brass safety cap and replace pressure plug.
FM 5-31 NOV 1943
RESTRICTED
ANTITANK MINIE. TYPE 93
DEFUZING \
1. Unscrew 'pressure plug.
2. I Unscrew whole fuze. '
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Unscrew pressure plug and remove leather
2. Lift off combination washer and sleeve (tab attached). "
.,--3. Unscrew' safety ,cap:' from fuze. "
4. Replace leather and screw pressure plug intQ place.
5. Bury mine with pressure plug at ground level., '
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
, Each ,mine is packed in a small wedderi frame. No data on
shipping crate.
NOTE
Japanese have two sizGS of shear wire for this One, for
antipersonnel us'c shears at 70' lbs.' The other, for antitank use
shears at 2.10 lbs. These mines hav'\. been found buried upside
down, with additional ,explosives p,accd beneath therr{ to'
1"
crease' their effect. " J,
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111.01-d 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
)
,
i
TYPE. Magnetic antitank charge
-COLOR. Khaki
CAS E. Canvas covering
WEIGHT. 2"% pounds
EXPLOSIV.E. 170 pounds
EFFECT. Single mine perforates %-inch armor plate. Two mines
. used in combination perforates 1 ?:I-inch armor plate.
EMPLOYMENT
For direct use against armored vehicles, doors of. pill:..boxes, and
similar' targets. Mine is placed in contact with iron ,or steel
objects and adheres by attraction of four magnets. Soldier plac-
ing mirie removes safety 'Pin and depre&ses a plunger ,on delay-
action fuze. He then has 4 to 5 seconds to take'cover. Usual,
practice is to use two mines together.
FM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
111.02-a
RESTRICTED
JAPANESE. MACNETIC MINE
iJ
SPRING \ .
, '
LOC.KING BALLS
PERCUSSION CAP --,_.:
! '
. FUNCTIONIN<7
1. ,H'and pressure on end o( fuze. depresses' plunger'
sted balls into groove in sliding cap; ..' .
2. Striker, driven by spring, fires percussion cap-delay pellet
-detonator-main charge. '
111.02-10 1 NOV 1943 FM .5-31
DI:(.'TDIf'Trn
I'15erl safety pinin safety-pin hplc-,

1. Lposen ring holding fuze in plac(\
Remove fuze from mine body.
'3. Unscrew deton<..ltor from fuze to make parts safer to handle.
FM 5-31
NOV 1943
111.02-C,
RESTRICTED .
JAPANESE M.ACNETIC MINE
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Remove mine carrying pouch.
'2. RenlOve wooden plug from mine body.
3. Screw fuze into mille body.
v
4. Pull out safety pin. . '
5. Press on. cap. Four to five seconds later
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
" I '. '
Carried in a stiff 'canvas pouch w.hich attaches to .soldiers belt.
Fitted to inside of POUd1 is a' cylindriCal, metar container for
holding fuze.. . ,
111.02-d I NOV 1.943 FM 5-31
RESTRICTED
I
I
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PARTITION
PUll WIRE
BOOBY. TRAP WIRE
PULL ROD
BOOBY-TRAP STAKE
TYPE;. Antitank and antipersonnel mine
CASE. Wooden box
EXPLOSIVE. 3% pounds "yellow' explosive," probab1y picric acid
o r , T ~ T
FUNCTIONING
Pull on 'side ,trip wire or on' booby-trap wite underneath causes
friction fuze to flash and fire detonator-main charge.
DISARMING
1. Cut side trip wire.
2. Carefully remOve soil where' trip wire eriters ground to
buried mine. ~ .
3. Wedge pull rod firmly in place where it emerges from box,
4. Cut booby-trap wire just below bottom of bOx,'
5. "Remove lid and cut pull wire. " ,
FM 5-31 '
I NOV 1943
114.01-a
I
JAPA"ESE FRICTION-FUZED LAND MINE
DEFUZING
Withdraw fuze. Separate fuze from ?etonator.
INSTALLING AND ARMING
1. Drive stake into prepared hole.
2. Tie bottom booby-trap wire to stake ..
3. Lay mine in place.
4. Thread booby-trllP wire into box.
5. Attach one end of the side trip wire t6 pull rod,and other
end to tree or' other object .
. 6. Irisert fuze through hole in partition. \ .
7. Thread pull wire through loop 0, supporting wire, and tie
. to loop of pull rod.
S: Fasten booby-trap wire to pull wire .
.. 9. Fill hole and camouflage.
REUSE
Check of and friction fuze before
SPACE FOR NOTES
\
114.01-b 1 NOV 1943 FM 5-31
=:.-I'IlErrRIP WIRE
FRICTION FUZE
BOOBY.TRAP WIRE
TYPE, Antitank and antipersonnel mirje
Wooden box .\
EXPLpSIVE. 2 pounds "yellow explosive," probably picric acid or
TNT ..
EMPLOYMENT'
No infqnnation as to to which this mine is put. Assumed'
it may be used as it road mine, or placed in trail as an
personnel mine. By increasing size of box, ,amount of explosive
can be increased to make it effective for antitank use.
FUNCTIONING
Can be fired by one or more of three methods.
I. Pulling trip wire, free end of which is attached to tree or
, stake. .
2. Lifting box and exerting pull on portion of trip wire fas-
. ,)
tened to stake.' '" , .
3. Pressing on lid, making block depress pivoted wire rod. In
all three cases ,of wire rod by either pull or push
causes pull in wire, which fires f!Jze--detonator-main charge.
FM 5-31 1 .NOV 1943
:J \
JAPANESE PRESSURE AND TRACTION LAND,MINE

1. Cltt trip wire.
2. Remove retaining ,'trips and lift off lid. ' .
3. Cut pull .wire. .
DEFUZING
Cut portion, of, trip wire be'tween pivoted wire rod and 'stake:
Remove "friction fuze and detonator and, if separate,
friction fuze tube from detonator tube. I
INSTALLING AND
1. Drive into excavated hole'. Tie wire to' stake.
2. Lay mine in so stake is just under hole of box.
3. Pass wire from stake through hole of box and tie to wite
rod.
Tie frip wire towire rod
l
S. Insert friction -fuze and detonator ,in hole provided in
charge.
6. Pass pull wire under: wire ho?k artd' through wire,'
and tie,it to rod.
7. THread trip wire through lid. . I, .
8. Set lid in place 'on springs,. and fasten retairiing strips 'in
place. .
9. Cover and camouflage.
10., Make fast end o'f trip wire. It must belo'ose;
RE-USE
Check condition of explosive and fuze'before
SPACE FOR NOTES.'
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114.02-b 1- NOV "1943 FM 5-31

eli A PI E R 1 2
R US S I A N
M I NiE TACT I C S, MI N E S , ...
. I
. AND FUZES
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Mise E rL A N' E 0 US!
MIN E SAN D FU Z E S
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BRASS COVER PLUG
RnA1f'lIING SCREWS
1-
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TYPE. Antitank and antipersonnel mine
COI.OR. Olivedrab
CASE. Sheet steel
WEIGH,.. 9% pounds
EXPLOSIVE. ,5% pounds cast TNT
'B'reaks" tank ,causes casualties to personnel within
radius of 20 yards.
EMPLOYMENT
Supplies' of. t\his type mine have, been captured by the J apancsc)
who use them mainly against personnel, 'laying them in narrow
trails"on beaches, and at entrances to bivouac areas. Normally
they lay it ontop of ground. . ,
fM 5-31 1 NOV 1943
DUTCH MUSHROOM-TOP MINE
FUNCTIONING
PRESSURE
.COVER
PRESSURE CAP
1. A 180-240 pound pressure on cover ,hears coppe" shear
pi'n, releasing striker.
2. Striker, driven_ by spring, explodes percussiori cap.
3. Flame from cap fires charge.
131,Ol-b 1 NOV 1943
DiSARMING
2. Insert nail or stmt wire in '; hole. Some models
of this mine do not have a" safety-pin hole.
I .
1. Unscrew and remove fuze.
2. Replace cover plug.
. -I "
FM 50C31
-1 tilOV
131.01-c
RESTRICTED
'- - !
DUTCH MUSHROOM-TOP MINE
INSTALLING AND ARMING ..
1. Remove brass cover plug a{,d wax cork from fuze cavity.
2. Screw in fuze.
3. Rcmove safety pin.
4. Replace cover plug.
PACKING AND TRANSPORTING
Wooden packing box holds five mines, and five fuzes each
sealed.in a tin container.
RE-USE
.Remove plug and cover. Chec'k presence of helical and
make sure waxed cork in 'fuze cavity is
NOTE
The mine described here is the!modeI that' was mamifactured
in the United States. A slightly different model, manufactured
. in both Holland and Java, has been used by both the Germans
and the Japs. This model has an operating pressure of only 50
pounds, has' rio safety pin, and is' so made, !hat the booster is
an integral part of the fuze. It functions and treated.in the
same ,:"ay as the Am,erican '
131.01-d 1 NOV 1943'
FM 5-3,1
RESTRICTED
ELECTRICAL MINE DETECTORS
'I. GENERAL
The SCR 625 mine detector a precision instrument
and must be tn;ated as such', In comi?at operatioris there should
he a -100 percent reserve 'of electrical detectors ayailable to
each Icnginecr unit at a repair depot established
at a central point qs far 'as battle permit.
Normally, signal 'corps personnel operate this depot, to
during battle, units send mine-detector units for repair,' re'"
cciving-workable 4etectors in exchange.
2. TRAINING
,
a. :Regular training in the usc of electrical-detectors is a neces::
sary part of all engineer All combat uriits should
have certain personnel capable of 'using the detector. Only by
continued training is it possible to establish proper speed
and swing for its effective use. A trained detector operator can
'swe'ep a 9.foot front.
'b. While searching for the 'operator -must keep the de
M
tector head parallel with the ground and 9 inches above it'
throughout the full swing, stepping forward between' swings
the length of the detector heads. To avoid incomplete sweep-
ing as a result of fatigue, operators should be' n:!1ieved regularly,
at np time using the detector for longer thari 20.minute(,con-

c. Detector:'ope,ratorsmust become familiar with all types of
enemy 'mines and trJp:':wire installations and with the methods'
of neutralizing each. They must be picked men who can be
trained to accomplish their task under all battle conditions;
even during a, complete blackout.
d. When breaching a mine field, the three detector men' in
each party must 'work as a team. They make sure the necessary
frontage is covered and that no strip bet'ween their individual
areas' is unswept. They must coordinat'e their speed and cover
carefully the lanes assigned to them.
,
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1 NOV 1943

Figure 1.2. mine dete.ctoT.,
1 NOV
fM 5-31
.NOTES ONHOUSE BOOBY TRAPS
FOR ARMS OTHER THAX'EXGIXKERS
1. TYPES AND CHARACTERISTICS
a. A house- booby trap consists _ of a main charge, a deJofl<3.tor, ",
and a fuze. The fuze may be attached directly to the detonator
or connected -to 'jt with a length of blasting time fuze or prima-
cord. The trap, may be rendered irtoperative by disconnecting
anyone of these components' from another. .
b. The most commonly used fuzes lire:
(1) PULL FUZES. Most enemy house booby traps are set with
pull fuzes which fire when the attached trip wire is pulled. This
type fuze is set in a great variety aLways, but usually by attach-
ing ,a wire to objects likely to be ,,moved, such "as doors and
fUfIliture.
,. (2) PRESSURE FUZES. fuzes are fired by pressure
, on a 'cap or prong. In a house devite, they may be installed to
resporid to pressure from the side well as from above.
(3) RELEASE FUZES. These are fired when a weight is lifted
off them.
(4) COMBINATION FUZES. Any of the above
three, types.
c. A fuze whose type is not recognized should be marked and
left for engineers to deal with. '
(1) ELECTRICALLY OPERATED TRAPS. These rarely are
encountered. ,They can be identified 9Y-' the presence of elec-
tric leads, dry, cells, or batteries. If found, they should be left
for the engineers-but'marked.
(2) TIME FUZES. Those are )ohg cylinders or clockwork"
devices. TheY,are easy to recognize and easy, to disa'rm: When
disarmed they can be safely.
d. The seq'uence of ,dealing with bdoby traps
(1) Find the trap. .
, (2). Find and recognize fuze used.
(3) Disann trap. _
(4) Defuze trap. , . t
The first step is the most difficult. Once found, house booby
traps usually are easy to deal with. . '
2,. LOCATING HOUSE BOOBY TRAPS.
a. Before opening a door. look at the other of it, to see
, if it is trapped. Usually this can be done by looking through
window. Beware of operated -traps laid in the giou.nd
FM 5-31
1 NOV 1943
by!the dCX?ts or windows.
b. Don't open a window until you have examined both sides.
c. If you tnust open. doors or windows and are unable to look
at both sides, pull them open with a long rope ..
d. Because you have found one trip wire attached 'to a door
or other object do not assume there are no others. .
e., Look caref';jiy where you treading-loose tiles, floor
boar:ds, or may conceal traps with pressu're
f. Don't rtlove, furniture, pictures, or similar' objeds hefore
exam,ining theni carefully for release fuzes or wires
to pull fuzes.
g. Don't open" any box, cupboard, or drawer before -ex-
amining it carefuliy. .' ..
r)'on't sit on any chair, sofa; or until it I hds' been ex.-'
amined. '
I. ,Avoid dbing the obvious or natural thing until ybuare sure'
it is notwhat the enemy wanted you to do. '.,
" I .. ! \
i. Whep., removIng the main charge of, a trap sure if, in
turn, is not trapped. ' , ' .
k. Because traps are not found immediately, (lei liot assume
without investigation that the entire area is not booby
,
trapped. . . "
I. Look before you leap. Afterwards, ydu may not be able to.
'3. WITH HOUSE BOOBY TRAPS .
a . . Slack trip wtres are safe tq cut. If you must find the
fuze and put in the safety pin before you cut the wire. If you
canupt reach tHe pull' the wire from a safe distance.
b. the safety Bin in pull fuzes; then it is safe to unscreW
or detach them:. . '. . '
c. 'In pressllre fuzes, insert a safety pin' thic;k enough to ,fit, or'
nearly fit the hole. When this is done tlte fuze can be un-
screwed or detached safely.'
fuzes are handle except-at the' time-,set for the
explosion. They are detached from the, main. charge by un-
screwing or. cutting the fuze them.
e. Release fuzes are disarmed by a safety 'pin before
removing the weight from theni. . I,
1 NOV 1'943
FM5-31
):
.I .
J \
MINE -WARFARE TRAINING
1. GENERAL "
Offl,cers and men of all aims- must havy some training
in mine warfare and enemy mine teChnique. \l\U combatant
must know how to employ mines .
. 2. TRAINING STANDARDS
Q. Officers and enlIsted men of a'U arms should know--
, (1) Enough about common types of mine;-allied and
be 'able t,o locate, disarm, and remove
them with a rope, . even when they"", booby-trapped.
(2). How to find mines by eye and by prodding.
(5, Simple ret'onnaissance, and reporting procedure.
(4) The common types of roadside mines and booby
where to expect them and how t6 ... avoid' them.
(5) The standard mine-field ,marking signs and danger signs,
both allied and enemy.' "
(6) Sin;Jple marking and prQcedure for anp .
. booby traps, .
(7) to lar a hasty, k)(:al, protective mine field,
b..: Mmefield /spccmhsts must i?e tramcd-
(1) "To recognize, disarm, remove,. and defuze all U. S:, Allied,
and enemy mines and booby, traps. .
(2)' To reconnoiter 'and report enemy mine fields.
(3) To clear and mark lanes through mine fields.
(4), To .clear roads, bridges, and other localities of mines and
booby traps and to remove delayed-action charges.
(5) 'To clear houses of booby traps. ,
(0 To lay, mink, and, report. mine fields.
c:.' CO'm,bat engineers must b(,! thoroughly trained and regul,ariy,
drilled in the :standard procedure' for' breaching mine fields in
cooperation with other arms. .
-d. Each division must be in the method of crossing
mine fields: For deep mine fields, this will involve both day and
night 'training. ' ,.,. .
"e. man should be as accpstome,d to mines as he is to his
, rifle. -Continuous practice under ;realistic is essential.
3. EMERGENCY MINEFIELD BREACHING
)
All unit training be' _based upon the fact
that engineers' often will at-a critical time and
phce to breach mine fields encountered unexpectedly in battle ..
Therefore,_ units have specially trained detachments capable of
FM 1 NOV
breaching a mine field and of marking the iane clearly. These
detachments are organicd as follows:' /. J'
a,o In each' infantry battalion the- pioneer platoon is trained
, "
in mine field This training is extended, as quickly .
as possible, so not less tha'u 20 men in each infantry company
are fully trained in the prodding method of clearing a 16-yard
gap. .
b. Detachments of oth,er arms are trained in mine ,clearance
according to the following scale:
(1) Artillery, 10 men per battery.
(2) Tank battalion, both light and medium, 2 men per
. , .
crew.
(3) Reconnaissance battalion, 20 men per company.
(4) Signal company, 15 me,n pet company, ,
(5) Trains, 20 men selected from the units, "'presented.
The number of personnel designated above is the minimum re-
quired for efficient 'operations in comhat theaters. All possible .
personnel should 'be trained in mine clearance.
4. PRECAUTIONS
II. To keep alive and able to fight, you must know and obey.
these precautions of min'e warfare:
(1) Let one man deal with one mine, while the rest stay out
of danger. .
(2) When in doubt, get help from specially trained troops.
(3) Be careful when you are most tired.
(4) Keep your eyes on the ground while moving through a
mine field. /
(5f Keep yourself and your meh in constant practice.
(6) Remember that'in mine warfare time spent.on reconnais-
sance saves lives.
(7) Expect and be prepared for continual changes in enenlY .
methods. .
(8) .Remember that the :man who aoes the,vrong thing usljally
kills not only hil)lself but others. .
(9) Insist on alertness and the strictest discipline in dealing
\vith mines., . .
(10) Remember that knowledge gives confidence,.
(11) Treat mines as just one of the normal risks of war.
(12) Mark the area or lane' you clear, and report it.
(13) Mark all' mines and booby. traps you find. .
b. Also remember the following:
(1) DO NOT trust anything--'-suspeet everything.
(2) DO NOT buneh together.
(3) DO NOT pull a loose trip wire, DO NOT cut a taut one ..
(4) DO NOT run in a mine field.
(5) DO NOT get careless or overconfident.
(6) DO NOT rush into a mine field to help a man who has
been hitor hlown up. '
!NOV 1943
FM 5-31-
I,
':_ f,'l'.; "":':_', ,:>,,', _: - '-- :',' ,-_ ,'_" -r,,-'!':
to the
mines you find are not booby-irapped.
(9) DO NOT forget.your is a ruthless, cunning, and'
iflgenious killer. '!" I, I'
(.10) Dd NdT sit back and do no'thing when you encounter
mines, You can get through them if properly trained,
(11) DO NOT forget to look for Qooby traps.
(12) Dd NOT Use the obvious 'and easiest terrain without
searching it first.
c. 'Remember, the enemy uses mines to you. If ,you are
slow, he has succeeded and you have failed. Everybody else is
held up while you are doing your job. You MUST get through,
IN THE SHORTEST POSSIBLE TIME. This means intense
and great practical skill, which cari come" only
from cpntinual training and, under realistic,conditions.
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FM "5-31 I NOV 1943

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