'

"

1JULV19&5 EODS-&5·3

VIET CONG'S EXPLOSIVE

ORDNANCE

1
USED IN SOUT H VIETNAM

U. S. Naval School, Explosive Ordnance Disposal

Indian Head, Maryland
 .,
~
Prepared by the Publications Division
 -

E ODS-65-3

VIET CONG'S EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE

USED IN SOUTH VIETNAM

1 July 1965

U. S. NAVAL SCHOOL, EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL

Indian Head, Maryland
K. PLOOF R. D. ZORNES
Commander, USNavy Major, USArmy
Commanding Officer Training Officer
 EODS-65-3

FOREWORD

The purpose of this book is to provide descriptive data to Explosive Ordnance

Disposal personnel for their use in evaluating Viet Cong ordnance. The material
was screened and taken from a booklet prepared by the J-2, High Command RVNAF,
titled "War-Material Used by Viet Cong in South Vietnam," Handbook II and
"War- Material Presumably in Service in North Vietnam," Handbook I.
The data given is translated from Vietnamese and all conversion to United
State' s measurements are approximate.

iii
.,_,
 EODS- 65-3

CONTENTS
iii
Assassination Devices
Fountain Pen Assassination Weapon-------- - - -- - - -- 1
Bicycle M i n e - - - - - - -- - -- - - -- - - - - -- - - - -- 2
Mortar and Rocket Ammunition
Chinese Communist 60- m Mortar High-Explosive Shell with
MP 82 Plastic Fuze 3
- - -- - -- - - - - -- - -- - - - - - -
Soviet Model MP 82 Plastic Fuze, Propelling Cartridge,
and Booster 4
------------------------~
Czechoslavakian Tarasnice 82-mm T-21 Recoilless Rifle 6
-------
Russian 160-mm Mortar, M 160 8
------------------
Russian Antitank Rocket Launcher, Model RPG- 2 10
--------- -
Czechoslovakian Antitank Rocket Launcher, Model P-27 - - -- - --- 12
Chinese Communist 57- mm Recoilless Rifle Shell, Armor
P iercing High E x p l o s i v e - - - - - - - - - - -- - - -- - - -- 14
Russian 200-mm BMD-20 Rocket Launcher 16
------------ -
Grenades
Russian RGD-33 Offensive and Defensive Hand Grenade - - - - - - - - 19
Russian Defensive Hand Grenade , F. 1 21
Russian RPG-40 Hand Grenade
---------------- 23
------------------
Russian Offensive Hand Grenade, RG- 42 25
--------------
Model RKG Antitank Parachute Shape Hand Grenade - - -- - - - -- 27
Viet Cong Antitank Parachute Hand Grenade 29
--------------
Russian Antitank Hand Grenade, RPG- 6 31
---------------
Russian RPG-43 Antitank Hand Grenade 33
---------------
Viet Cong Homemade Sodium Incendiary Grenad e - - - -- - - - -- - 34
Mines and Bombs
Chinese Communist Antipersonnel and Antitank Mine No. 8 37
Russian TM- 41 Antitank Mine
------
39
- ------------------
Russian TMB-2 Antitank Mine 40
Viet Cong Antitank Mine
- ------------------ 41
---------------------
Viet Cong Locally Constructed Antitank 100- mm Mine 42
---------
Viet Cong Cast Iron Fragmentation Antitank Mine 43
----------
Viet Cong Betel Box-Shaped Mine, Locally Made of Cement _ _ _ _ __ 44
Viet Cong Turtle-Shaped Mine Locally Made of C e m e n t - - - - - - - - 45
Viet Cong Fixed Directional Fragmentation DH-10 Mine _ _ _ _ _ __ _ 46
Viet Cong Cylindrical Homemade Fragmentation Mine 49
Viet Cong Homemade Antipersonnel Mine
--------- 50
---------------

v
EODS-65-3

Viet Cong Locally Manufactured Cylindrical Fragmentation Mine _ __ _ 51

Shaped Charge 52
Viet Cong Nonelectric Homemade Hollow Cone Mine 53
Viet Cong Short Cone-Shaped Mine 55
Viet Cong Homemade Water Mine 57
Viet Cong Locally Made Water Mine 59
Viet Cong Locally Constructed Shaped Charge 61
Viet Cong Locally Manufactured "Turtle" Mine
Constructed of Sheet M e t a l - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 62
Viet Cong Long and Round Mound Shaped Locally
Manufactured M i n e - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 63
81- mm Mortar Container Mine 64
Viet Cong Locally Constructed Round Volume Mine 65
Homemade Mine Delay Firing Device 66
Demolition Material
Chemical Firing Device - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - 69
Chinese Communist LA2B Blasting Machine 71
Russian TNT Demolition Block 72
Chinese Communist TNT Demolition Block 73
Chinese Communist Red Phosphorus 74

vi
ASSASSINATION DEVICES
 EODS- 65- 3

FOUNTAIN PEN ASSASSINATION WEAPON

Spring Slot firing pin guide

Safety hole Firing pin knob 22-Caliber cartridge Barrel

-~·

2-1/2 Inches 2-1/2 Inches

•
5 Inches

This weapon has the shape of an ordinary fountain pen with a fastening clip.
A groove used for guiding the firing pin is seen on the pen cap. The bolt and
firing pin are in one piece.
The pen body is made of a smooth, thin metal tube and the bore has no
riflings. The weapon is employed at short range ( 1. 5 m) •
To load, remove the barrel, insert the cartridge, and replace the barrel.
To cock the weapon, pull the operating handle to the rear and turn left until it
engages in the safety lock. The weapon is now in the cocked position. To fire,
point the weapon toward the target and turn the operating handle right. The
operating handle disengages from the safety pin and pushes the firing pin forward,
(by force of the spring) , which strikes the primer.

Characteristics
Caliber . 22 ( 5. 6 mm)
Over-all length 126 mm/5 in.
Length of barrel 65 mm/ 2·1/2 in.
Outside diameter of barrel 12 mm (the largest part) /0. 47 in.
Maximum effective range 1. 5 m/5 ft

1
EODS- 65-3

BICYCLE MINE

A - Timing device
and batteries
B - Explosive
C - Detonator
D - Electrical wires

This mine is fired electrically by means of a wrist watch delay firing device.
Body: The main charge and detonator are introduced into a tube of the
bicycle frame under the saddle, and an electric wire is extended outside the frame.
Detonation: This is initiated by a watch and two 4. 5-volt batteries which
are placed inside the bicycle headlight with wires protruding outside along the
frame.
During movement, the ignition device is not linked to the explosive, but
upon arrival at the prescribed sabotage site, these two components are connected,
and the watch of the ignition device is preset.
The Viet Cong have al so adapted another firing device, using bicycle
generator power. Thus, during movement, the generator is kept apar t from the
wheel . When arriving at the sabotage site, the head of the generator is placed
against the bicycle wheel. When someone operates the bicycle, the generator
sends a spark up the ignition line and initiates the explosive.

2
MORTAR AND ROCKET AMMUNITION
 EODS-65-3

CHINESE COMMUNIST 60-MM MORTAR HIGH-EXPLOSIVE SHELL WITH

MP 82 PLASTIC FU ZE
f
' --------, -- --r
1. 2 in.

-----·-t~

60M ~07 · I

5 in.
Gas check rings
9. 8 in. TNT 8. 6 in.

I
I
I
2. 4 I in.

'
• US 60 mm HE Mortar Shell Chinese Communists 60 mm HE Mortar Shell

The Chinese Communist 60-mm mortar high-explosive shell, made of iron

and cast iron alloy, is provided with a MP 82 plastic fuze and is charged with
yellow TNT. This type of ammunition, manufactured by the Viet Cong, is simi-
lar to the US 60-mm mortar high-explosive shell and bears the false mark of US
ammunition; still, it can be identified by the following features:
Stabilizing Fin: The shell has eight fins like that of the US shell; however,
the fin ends are angular, instead of round as those of the US shell.
Gas Check Rings: It has five gas check rings (one large ring in the upper
part and four small rings in the lower part) , while the US shell has five gas check
rings of the same size.

3
EODS- 65-3

SOVIET MODEL MP 82 PLASTIC FUZE, PROPELLING CARTRIDGE,

AND BOOSTER

Booster

(!F
Fuse Propelling cartridge

Plastic Fuze: This fuze is a direct copy of the Soviet fuze, MP 82. It is
made of plastic and is dark red. Its components are: firing pin, firing pin spring,
firing pin locking disk, initiator, and percussion primer.
These components show that the fuze is an impact (point) detonating fuze and
differs from the Soviet fuze, which is a set-back type. However, the size of the
fuze shown is similar to that of the Russian fuze~
The original markings, MP 82, (in Russian) near the end of the threads is
removed. The fuze is threaded to the 82- mm mortar shell for firing. This mortar
round and cartridge is manufactured by Red China and Czechoslovakia and is a
direct copy of Soviet mortars and cartridges. They have been used to equip the
North Korean Army and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam Army.
When the fuze hits the target, the top of the fuze is crushed. The firing pin
pressed by its spring, perforates the firing pin locking disk to detonate the
initiator which in turn explodes the percussion primer.

Characteristics

Length 69 mm/2-1/2 in.

Diameter of the fuze 40 mm/1-3/4 in.
Diameter of the threading part 35 mm/1-1/2 in.

4
 EODS-65-3

Propelling Cartridge: This cartridge is similar to a shotgun shell, 17 mm

caliber. Its length is 47 mm and it is composed of two parts, the body and the
cartridge case. The body is made of strong cardboard painted red and has a thin
coat of wax. The cartridge is made of brass ( 13 mm thick) . In addition, the
cartridge is marked with a figure 52 on its base.
The ignition propellant is double-base and consists of nitrocellulose and
nitroglycerin, which is formed in O. 31xo.02 mm size pellets.

Booster Charge: The propellant charge is also double-base (nitrocellulose

and nitroglycerin). The charge, approximately 1 ounce of propellant contained
in a cloth bag ( 22 x 12 mm in size).

5
EODS- 65-3

CZECHOSLAVAKIAN TARASNICE 82 MM T-21

RECOILLESS RIFLE

Telescolic sight
Tow bar Breech operati~le

/'r--'~~llJ..IWio~
Nose plug (for shipping) 1
18 . 3 in.

25.1 in.

The Tarasnice is .an antitank, single shot, smooth bore, recoilless rifle.
It fires an 82 mm projectile (HEAT) with fixed tail fins. The battery-initiated
ammunition is loaded from the rear end of the barrel. The weapon is mounted
on a light carriage with two wheels and a towing hook. When not in use, this
hook is folded up along the barrel. The gun can be fired from the shoulder or
from its wheeled carriage.

6
 EODS- 65- 3

Characteristics
Caliber 82 mm
Over- all length 1. 48 m/58 in.
Weight ( including carriage
and s ight 20 kg/44 lb
Sight Telescope
Effective range:
Mobile target 300 m/328 yd
Fixed target 600 m/656 yd
Rate of fire 5 to 6 rounds per min
Type of ammuniti on 82 mm shell; HEAT with
stablizing fin and perforated
cartridge case.

7
EODS-65-3

RUSSIAN 160- MM MORTAR, M 160

The 160 mm mortar, M 160, which appeared for the first time in 1953,
is one of the latest Russian heavy mortars. It was manufactured to replace
the 160 mm mortar, M43. It is different from the M43; it is longer and has
a cylinder on the right side of the barrel and a round base plate. It is heavier
than the M 43 and is provided with an improved carriage.
The shell is loaded into the breech block and fired by squeezing the trigger.
The barrel may be removed from the base plate and laid horizontally. In this
position, the shell is loaded by hand into the breech block. The barrel is moved
back to its normal position and the projectile is fired by an ignition wire attached
to the trigger. The wheels of this mortar are permanently fixed to the carriage.

8
 EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Weight in movement 1470 kg/3240 lb
Maximum elevation 65° (estimate)
Traverse 24° (estimate)
Muzzle velocity 343 mps/1125 fps
Maximum range (horizontal) 8070 m/8825 yd
Minimum range (horizontal) 750 m/812 yd
Rate of fire 2 - 3 rounds per min
Projectile type High explosive
Round weight 43 kg/85 lb
Projectile weight 41. 14 kg/90. 7 lb
Fuze type Impact ( point detonation)

9
EODS- 65- 3

RUSSIAN ANTITANK ROCKET LAUNCHER, MODEL RPG- 2

rRear sight !Front sight

Launcher tube Insulated guard
~ t 4olr

.. .~ -·. ~

Trigger group--.

38 in.

Propellant charge

This weapon is a smooth bore, recoilless antitank rocket launcher. One

is issued to each Rifle Squad in the Russian Army. Tactically, this weapon is
of the same value as the United States and British high explosive antitank rocket
launchers. To load, place the stabilizing fins of the projectile in the muzzle of
the gun; the largest portion of the projectile will fit in the grooves of the gun
muzzle and firmly hold the projectile. The projectile head, 82 mm in diameter,
is placed outside of the gun barrel. A gas port is located on the right s ide of the
gun near the hand bar. This weapon, therefore, cannot be placed on the left
shoulder for firing. Half of the rocket launcher is covered with insulation to
protect the gunner's face and shoulder from heat.

10
 EODS-65- 3

Characteristics
Caliber 40 mm
Weight 2. 750 kg/6 lb
Muzzle velocity 84 mps/276 fps
Rate of fire 4 - 6 rounds per min
Type of ammunition HE antitank ammunition
Weight of ammunition 1. 840 kg/4 lb
Penetration 152 to 180 mm/6 to 7 in.
Sight Stationary front sight
Rear sight made of sheet
metal folding type ; 3 sight
holes (50-, 100- , and
150-m/55- , 107-, and
164- yd range)

11
EODS- 65-3

CZECHOSLOVAKIAN ANTITANK ROCKET LAUNCHER, MODEL P-27

Insulated guard

Bipod--+

41. 2 in.
.I

26 in.
This Czechoslovakian antitank rocket launcher ( 45 mm caliber), Model P-27,
can be considered as equivalent to the Panzerfaust weapon of Germany and the
RPG-2 of the Russian Infantry. This antitank weapon is issued to squad echelon
in the Czech Army.
Although this weapon is similar in appearance to the German Panzerfaust
weapon, its operation is different. When fired, this weapon discharges the
propelling gas to the rear. The rear vented gas will neutralize the recoil of the
weapon. The rocket is electrically fired by a trigger-operated magneto and is
muzzle loaded.
Outstanding recognition features of this weapon are the bipod located near
the front end of the tUbe and the protective insulation covering the launcher,
trigger mechanism, and pistol grip.
The rocket launcher is used with antitank high explosive ammunition with
stabilizing fins 120 mm in diameter.

12
 EODS-65- 3

Characteristics
Caliber 45mm
Weight unloaded 6. 4 kg/14 . 1 lb
Sights:
Front sight Knife shaped, folding
Rear sight Leaf shaped, folding
Rate of fire 4 rounds per min
Effective range 73 m/80 yd (mobile
target)
100 m/110 yds (fixed
target)
Muzzle velocity 140 mps/459 fps
Type of ammunition HEAT
Penetration
(flat trajectory) 170 to 250 mm/6. 8 to
10 in. at 0° .

13
EODS-65-3

CHINESE COMMUNIST 57-MM RECOILLESS RIFLE SHE LL,

ARMOR PIERCING HIGH EXPLOSIVE

·············r····
Front
r. . .
Rear

2.6 in.
_.t.. ····t-----i·T
2. 2 in.
51 RIFU 57~~~ : 0 II 79
HEAT
Q•
! A- : Bin. ''"-11
•~r:in.
fUlf PDP.II
vo310 8• m. 0

+
•
7 in.
J====\- •
0 0 0 + ~0.4 ifr;····>==~=l
.).....
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
17.8 i 'bo 0 o o : 18.3 in.
0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
000000 .
o o o 10.5 m.
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0 Explanation:
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0 l: ~ h Jf
VO TOA llJC &AN
• • # •

Recoilless Rifle

US Shell Red Chinese Red Chinese Shell

Imitation
A Chinese Communist 57-mm RR cartridge looks like that of US manufacture.
The cartr idge bears US nomenclature and markings but the two types are different
as indicated in the following comparison of characteristics:
Chinese Communist Shell US Shell
Fuze: No lettering~ two holes in the Fuze: Carved with lot number and year
fuze body opposite each other (per- of manufacture; no holes on the surface
haps to tighten the fuze to the shell) ; of the fuze body.
head is covered by a disk which
prevents humidity from entering the
fuze.

14
 EODS- 65- 3

Projectile: Longer (measured from Projectile: Painted olive drab with

the case opening to the fuze end) precut rotation band; shell nomencla-
than US shell, approximately 15 mm; ture properly marked (yellow color).
smoothly painted; precut rotation
band 2 mm shorter; not meticulously
made; improper nomenclature
painted in yellow letters.

Case: Approximately 4 mm longer; Case: Meticulously made; smoothly

four slots on the cartridge case neck; painted with the projectile held firmly
painted dark; rudimentarily fabricated by four stamped indentations.
since rough case fitting lines are still
present.

15
EODS- 65-3

RUSSIAN 200-MM BMD-20 ROCKET LAUNCHER

The Russian 200 mm BMD-20 rocket launcher (four missile type) was
exhibited for the first time on Labor Day in 1954 in Moscow. This type of rocket
l auncher is new to the Soviet arsenal.
The launcher is carried by the ZIS/ZIL-151 trucks ( 2-1/2 ton) that are
frequently utilized for other rocket launchers by Russia. The truck is equipped
with an armor shield for protection of the driver's compartment when firing.
The launcher consists of four open crate launching frames with spiraled rails
placed to give the rockets right-hand spin when fired. This weapon is equipped
with a manual elevating and traversing adjusting handle. The missile is fin-spin
stabilized.

16
 EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Carrier:
Weight of truck with
launcher and rockets 8, 000 kg/17, 636 lb
Weight of truck 4, 500 kg/9, 900 lb
Engine type 90 horsepower , gasoline, six cylinders
Speed 64 kph/40 mph
Cruising range 660 km/410 miles
Launcher:
Weight 2, 700 kg/5, 952 lb
Elevation 9° to 60°
Traverse 20°
Missile:
Caliber 200 mm
Weight 194 kg/428 lb
Range 18, 500 m/20, 200 yd

17
GRENADES
 EODS- 65-3

RUSSIAN RGD- 33 OF FENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE HAND GRENADE

I
Fragmentation sleeve

The RGD-33 offensive and defensive hand grenade is a dual- purpose grenade.
As an offensive grenade, it has a 5. 5 yd lethal radius. By adding a fragmentation
sleeve, it becomes a defensive grenade, which has a 27 yd lethal radius. This
sheet metal grenade is normally painted olive brown.
The grenade is thrown vigorously. A spring in the handle forces the body
back quickly and the firing pin strikes the primer actuating the delay element.

NOTICE: Duds are dangerous and should be destroyed in place, as the slightest
vibr ation may set them off.

19
EODS-65-3

Characteristics

Offensive grenade Defensive grenade

without with
fragmentation sleeve fragmentation s leeve
Weight 0. 496 kg/1.1 lb 0. 659 kg/1. 5 lb
Length 190 mm/7. 5 in. 190 mm/7. 5 in.
Diameter 45 mm/1. 8 in. 52 mm/2. 1 in.
Effective fragmentation
radius 5 m/5. 5 yd 25 m/27 yd
Time fuze 3 - 4 sec delay 3 - 4 sec delay

20
 EODS- 65- 3

RUSSIAN DEFENSIVE HAND GRENADE, F.1

Fuze body
I

5 in .
Bursting
charge

Grenade
body

The shape and operation of this F . 1 hand grenade are similar to those of the
US Mk 2 grenade. Its case is of serrated cast iron and painted olive drab.
To use, hold the grenade body and safety lever with one hand, remove the
safety pin with the other, and throw. When thrown, the safety lever ofthegrenade
springs up, loosening the spring of the firing pin which ignites the primer,
burns the time fuze, and explodes the grenade.

21
EODS- 65- 3

Characteristics
Type Defensive
Use Antipersonnel
Weight 0. 690 kg/1. 5 lb
Length 124 mm/5 in.
Diameter 55 mm/2. 2 in.
Fuze delay From 3-5 sec
Average throwing range 33-45 m/36-49 yd
Effective fragmentation radius 14 m/15 yd

22
 EODS-65-3

RUSSIAN RPG-40 HAND GRENADE

This grenade is used mainly against light armored vehicles . It is made of

sheet metal and contains TNT. The primer detonator is inserted into the grenade
before the grenade is thrown. The igniting device is placed inside the handle,
which is tightly screwed into the top of the grenade. When the safety pin is re-
moved and the safety lever released, the grenade is in the armed position .
•
NOTICE: Under no circumstances should dud grenades of this type be picked up,
as the fuze is armed and the slightest vibration will set it off.
•t

23
EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Type Offensive
Use Antitank
Weight 1. 205 kg/2. 7 lb
Length 200 mm/8 in.
Diameter 95 mm/3. 4 in.
Effective fragmentation radius 20 m/22 yd
Fuze type Impact instantaneous

24
 EODS-65-3

RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE HAND GRENADE, RG-42

·}

5 in .

2. 2 in.

This grenade has a sheet metal cylindrical body which contains 99 grams
of TNT. To throw the grenade, hold the safety lever tightly, press it close to
the grenade body with one hand, and pull the safety pin with the other. When it
is thrown, the safety lever will spring upward and leave the grenade body. The
firing pin is forced down and strikes the primer which ignites the time fuze and
sets off the grenade.

25
EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Type Offensive
Use
Weight
Over-all length
Antipersonnel
400 g/14 oz
127 mm/5 in.
•
Diameter
Time delay
Average throwing range
53 mm/2 in.
3 to 4 sec
30 - 40 m/32 - 49 yd
•
Dangerous radius 15 - 20 m/16- 22 yd

26
 EODS- 65-3

VIET CONG ANTITANK PARACHUTE HAND GRENADE

(Locally Made )

_J

--~------------------------
Rear section of handle Sliding conical sleeve Body Warhead

This is a shaped charge grenade composed of four parts:

Head: The head is cylindrical and made of 7. 10-mm sheet iron.

This cylinder is 7. 5 cm/3 in. in diameter and its height depends on the
angle of the hollow cone, the quantity of TNT, etc.

Body: The body is a cylinder made of sheet iron and consists of:
( 1) A cone made of brass with a thickness of 2 to 3 mm designed
to create a penetrating jet against tanks and armored personnel carriers
( 2) TNT housing
( 3) One partition of cardboard or wood ( 1- to 2-mm thick) used
to regulate the explosive action against the surface of the cone base
( 4) Cast TNT with a 1. 55 density and used as the main charge
( strong destructive power of the grenade caused by this cast TNT)
( 5) One detonator containing silver fulminate
( 6) One primer of Chinese Communist K . 50 ( 50 caliber) SMG
cartridge.
Parachute Cone: This cone is made of sheet iron. It is used to lock
the safety spring when the grenade is in its safety position and is used also
• as the cone of the parachute when the grenade is thrown. The inside of the
cone of the parachute consists of the following parts:

29
EODS-65- 3

( 1) Safety spring
( 2) Firing pin
( 3) Safety pin and spring
( 4) The parachute attached to the cone at one end and to the
wooden handle by a piece of cloth at the other end
( 5) Parachute spring used to unfold the parachute.
l
Rear Section: This is a cylindrical wooden handle equipped with a
parachute lock made of sheet iron and a locking pin laying across the handle.

When using this grenade, firmly hold the wooden handle and the parachute
lock, pull out the pin from the handle, and throw the grenade.
When thrown. the spring pulls the parachute cone to the rear and the para-
chute deploys. The parachute will stabilize the direction of the grenade and assure
proper impact attitude on the target. At the same time, the cone moves rearward
and the spring pulls the safety pin out of the grenade and allows the firing pin to
strike the detonator.
Upon impact, the inertia-activated firing pin strikes the detonator and
explodes the grenade.
The piercing power of this grenade is up to 100 mm/4 in. of steel. If the grenade
hits the track or the engine of an armored personnel carrier. the armored
personnel carrier will be disabled. If it hits the personnel compartment, the
penetrating effect of the jet will cause heat and high pressures which will cause
casualties abroad.

Characteristics
Length 35 cm/13-1/2 in.
Weight 500 to 700 g/l to 1-1/2 lb
Head diameter 7. 5 cm/3 in.

To disassemble the grenade, before it is thrown, first remove the para-

chute lock and then the safety pin assembly. The removal of the safety pin is
easy and not dangerous since the firing pin strikes the detonator by inertia only.
After the parachute assembly has been disassembled, never let the grenade
fall head down on the ground since this will create the inertia which will cause
the firing pin to strike the primer and explode the grenade. (The disassembly
must be done by an ordnance specialist. )
NOTE: It is absolutely prohibited to touch a dud grenade, since it may
explode unexpectedly. Report it to an ordance specialist for disposition.

30
 EODS- 65- 3

RUSSIAN ANTITANK HAND GRENADE, RPG-6

Cone cavity liner

Bursting charge

Detonator booster
13 . 5 in. assembly

Firing pin and spring ~ .' '

. ·;I
..,l it

. ,1

Stabilizing cloth

This antitank hand grenade, RPG-6, is a shaped charge grenade which can
be used against personnel because of its effective fragmentation radius. There-
fore this grenade is thrown from cover.
To use, hold the grenade handle and safety lever tightly with one hand and
pull the safety pin with the other. When thrown, the grenade is balanced by
four pieces of parachute cloth that eject from the handle as the safety lever is
ejected.
The grenade explodes on impact. Unlike the RPG- 3 grenade, this type of
grenade has a crescent shaped head and its handle is made of sheet metal instead
of wood .
..

31
EODS- 65-3

Characteristics
Type High explosive
Use Antitank and antibunker
Weight (including fuze) 1. 020 kg/2. 4 lb
Over-all length 343 mm/13. 5 in.
Fuze Impact t
Average throwing
distance 18 m/19 yd
Penetration 100 mm/4 in.
Fragmentation radius 20 m/22 yd

32
 EODS-65-3

RUSSIAN RPG-43 ANTITANK HAND GRENADE

,
Stabilizing cloth

iiB---Detonat0r booster
assembly
.._..~'--Bursting charge

Firing pin and

spring
Cone cavity liner

3. 8 in.
The RPG-43 hand grenade is an antitank hand grenade and is used to attack
armored cars and fortified defensive positions. The grenade equilibrium device
consists of two pieces of cloth and a steel cone. This device is designed to provide
balance for the grenade and to ensure that the head of grenade accurately strikes
the target. To use, pull out the safety pin and throw. The grenade will explode
upon striking the target. It is characterized by a large cylindrical body, wooden
handle, and steel parachute cone.

Characteristics
Type High explosive
Weight (including fuze) 1. 203 kg/2. 7 lb
Over- all length 300 mm/12 in.
Fuze Impact
Penetration 75 mm/3 in.
Bursting radius fragmentation 20 m/22 yd

33
EODS-65-3

VIET CONG HOMEMADE SODIUM INCENDIARY GRENADE

Sodium grenade with wax cover

Sodium grenade with

Part of wax cover
part of wax cover removed

Paper covering
the opening of
sodium grenade

This spherical-shaped grenade is made of two hemispherical shaped pieces

of metal welded together and is covered by a coat of wax.
There are two outlets on the grenade body, 10 mm and 3 mm in diameter.
Both of these outlets are sealed with a piece of light paper. One third of the
grenade case is filled with sodium. This substance will burn and smoke upon
contact with water.
Prior to using this incendiary grenade, remove the coat of wax completely
and the two pieces of paper blocking the outlets. Throw the spherical cases into
water; the grenade will send out flames and smoke for 4 or 5 sec in one direction
for about 1 m. Despite the burning, the incendiary grenade case remains intact
and emits a particular smell similar to that of kerosene. If touched, it feels as
if it were covered with a coat of soap.

34
 EODS- 65-3

This grenade is used to set fire to depots or flammable material. It is very

effective for sabotage activities.

Characteristics
Over-all weight 45 g/1-1/2 oz
Weight of wax and paper 5 g/O. 10 oz
Weight of the spherical
cases and sodium 40 g/1- 1/4 oz
Diameter 38 mm/1-1/2 in.
Thickness of metal case 1. 25 mm/O. 05 in.

35
MINES AND BOM13S
 EODS- 65-3

CHINESE COMMUNIST ANTIPERSONNEL AND ANTITANK MINE NO. 8

This antipersonnel and antitank mine is made of cast iron and frequently
painted black.
In order to detonate the mine a 13. 600 kg/30 lb pressure on the pressure
ring is required. However, less pressure can detonate the mine if the pressure
is placed on the edge of the pressure ring. It can be detonated by a pull or fric-
tion firing device. The main charge is TNT or picric acid. To disarm, first
disconnect any trip wires attached. Attach a 50- m - long wire or rope to the mine,
pull the mine out of the ground, insert a safety bar in the slot on the side of the
fuze, remove the pressure ring, and then unscrew the fuze. Turn the mine up-
side down and catch the primer as it falls out.

37
EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Weight 5. 400 kg/12 lb
Weight of the explosive 2. 270 kg/5 lb
Diameter of the mine 228. 6 mm/9 in.
Height of the mine 101. 6 mm/4 in.

38
 EODS- 65- 3

RUSSIAN TM-41 ANTITANK MINE

This mine is made of blued sheet metal often painted white or dark olive
drab . The pressure-type firing device, which is l ocated under the pressure cap,
requires 160 kg/350 lb of pressure to activate the mine. This mine can remain
operative for many months when it is waterproof. To disarm this mine, unscrew
the pressure cap and gently pull out the fuze with the attached detonator. A
blasting cap is attached to this fuze.

Characteristics
Weight of the mine 5. 500 kg/12 lb
Weight of the charge 3. 600 kg/8 lb
Height of the mine 133 mm/5 in.
Diameter of the mine 254 mm/10 in.

39
EODS-65-3

RUSSIAN TMB-2 ANTITANK MINE

The Russian TMB-2 mine is one of the standard, nonmetallic, antitank mines
used in the Soviet Army. It is laid separately or with metallic and wooden mines.
The mine cannot be detected by a mine detector.

Characteristics
Mine case Tar impregnated cardboard
Color Black or brown
Height 153 mm/6 in.
Diameter 275 mm/11 in.
Weight of the mine 7 kg/15. 4 lb
Weight of the explosive 4. 900 kg/11 lb (Amato!)

40
 EODS-65-3

VIET CONG ANTITANK MINE

i n.

2. 8 in .
0 .2

The Viet Cong locally constructed antitank mine with iron case consists of
2 main parts, the cap or pressure plate and the body.
Mine Cap (Pressure Plate): This is oval shaped and has a hole in the center
to accommodate the 25- mm diameter fuze.
Mine Body: Two holes are located in the top of the mine, one to accommo-
date the fuze and the other to load the explosive.

Characteristics
Color Olive drab
Over- all weight 5. 200 kg/11-1/2 lb
Top diameter 200 mm/8 in.
Bottom diameter 185 mm/7 in.
Height 75 mm/3 in.
Explosive charge TNT (poor quality)
Material of mine body Sheet iron

41
EODS-65-3

VIET CONG LOCALLY CONSTRUCTED ANTITANK 100- MM MINE

14 . 8 in.

This mine is a modified British 100-mm mortar shell (oval-shaped case)

utilizing an e lectric fir ing device. The fuze well is cut off and a hole is drilled
into the explosive to accommodate an electric blasting cap.

Characteristics
Color Black
Over- all weight 6 kg/13 lb
Diameter 100 mm/4 in.
Length 370 mm/15 in.
Explosive charge TNT ( poor quality)
Charge weight 1. 55 kg/3- 1/2 lb
Mine case weight 4. 500 kg/10 lb
Mine case mixture Cast iron

42
 EODS- 65-3

VIET CONG CAST IRON FRAGMENTATION ANTITANK MINE

Front view

- --Fuze we ll

Top view

9 . 6 in.

iron 5 in.

0 8 in.

This oval- shaped mine is crisscrossed by serrations except on the two ends.
On the mine body and between the ends is a handle which is passed through two
eye hooks attached to the mine body.
There is a hole, 40 mm/2 in. in diameter, with a cover at the end of the
mine. When used, this cover is removed and replaced by an electric blasting cap.

Characteristics
Color Grey ( cast iron) Diameter 125 mm/5 in.
Over- all weight 5 kg/12 lb Explosive charge Melinite
Length 240 mm/9 in. Operation Electric

43
EODS-65-3

VIET CONG BETEL BOX-SHAPED MINE, LOCALLY MADE OF CEMENT

Detonator lead
1.4 in. 1. 2

1.4 in.
O.6 i n.r---.,-~l'--!il-.U....la-l~~""

7.2 in.
5.2 in.

7.6 in.

3.5 in.

Perspective

7. 6 in.

This mine is constructed of cement with an electric firing device and

serrations in the center of the case. The end of the mine has a piece of iron
attached by four bolts to hold the electric blasting cap.

Characteristics
Color Grey
Over-all weight 6 kg/13 lb
Explosive charge TNT (poor quality)
Diameter 190 mm/8 in.
Mixture of mine body Cement
Operation Electric

44
 EODS-65- 3

VIET CONG TURTLE-SHAPED MINE LOCALLY MADE OF CEMENT

9 . 6 in.
8, 8 in

2 . 6 in.

1 0. 4 in.
4. 8 in.

5.2 in.

This mine is constructe d of cement with an electric firing device. Usually

the mine is fastened to a long pole. A part of the case has a square piece of iron
attached by four screws to hold the fuze in place.

Characteristics
Color Grey
Over -all weight 6 kg/13 lb
Length 220 mm/9 in.
Diameter 130 mm/5 in.
Explosive char ge TNT ( poor quality)
Mixture of mine case Cement
Oper ation Electric

45
EODS-65-3

VIET CONG FIXED DIRECTIONAL FRAGMENTATION DH-10 MINE

The Viet Cong DH-10 mine is designed to counter massed infantry attacks
and to be used against light-armored vehicles. It is also used against helicopters
when discharging troops and to attack or sabotage airfields or airstrips. This
mine can be fixed on bipods and placed on all types of terrain. The DH-10 mine
has characteristics similar to those of the US Claymore mine, Ml8Al. The mine
is composed of two parts:
( 1) Body: This is shaped like a large saucer, constructed of sheet metal,
and painted olive drab. A hooded sight is soldered to the body and is used to aim
the mine.
( 2) Bipods: These are composed of four steel rods and two frames ( 15-mm
width) . The steel folding rods are fixed to the frame by screws and the bipods
are fixed to the mine body by wing nuts .
The mine can be identified by its concave and convex sides. The concave
side is aimed at the objective so that when the mine explodes fragments will be
shot in an arc. (The body contains from 420 to 450 cylindrical steel fragments,
each 12 mm in diameter. ) The convex side has a well where the detonator is
placed. The hole has a round sheet metal cover with four slots.

46
 EODS- 65-3

Usage:
When used against infantry attack, the mine is placed 150 to 200 meters in
front of the target; against light-armored vehicles, the mine is placed 50 meters
from the route of the vehicle. To breach a barbed wire fence or a wall, three
mines are placed in a triangle adjacent to the wall or fence . When the mines ex-
plode, a breach of 3 m/3 yd inwidthand 40 to 50m/44 to 54yd in depth is exposed.
To use this mine against helicopters and paratroopers, it is planted in open terrain
with the concave side up or placed at the edge of a jungle at a 45° angle. When
sighting the DH-10 mine, use the range correction table below.
RANGE CORRECTION (ELEVATION)
Aim above tar et
m d m
100 110 0.50 19.6
150 165 1. 00 39.4
200 220 1. 75 70.0

Destruction:
When the mine explodes its fragments will spread over an area having 8%
to 10% of effectiveness as compared with the burst range. For example: at a
50- m range, the surface of dispersion will be effective from 4 to 5 m, at a 100-m
range, the surface of dispersion will be effective from 8 to 10 m, and at a 200-m
range, the surface of dispersion will be effective from 16 to 20 m. On each square
meter of the surface of dispersion, an average of five fragments are counted.
Care and Maintenance:
To prevent the mine from being damaged and from exploding by accident, the
Viet Cong have instructed the units using the mine to apply safety measures re-
quired and to avoid ( 1) humidity, ( 2) sunshine, ( 3) shock (when the detonator is
in the mine) or ( 4) the introduction of the detonator into the mine prior to use.
NOTE: Under no circumstances is a captured mine of this type to be used
tactically by friendly troops.

47
EODS-65-3

Characteristics

Width 54 mm/2 in.

Diameter 300 mm/12 in.
Diameter of detonator hole 44 mm/1-3/4 in.
Depth of detonator hole 51 mm/2 in.
Weight 9 kg/20 lb
Weight of explosive 4 kg/8 lb
Initiation Electric blasting cap
Effective range against infantrymen 150 - 200 m/164 - 218 yd
Effective range against armored
vehicles 50 m/54 yd

48
 EODS- 65- 3

VIET CONG CYLINDRICAL HOME MADE FRAGME NTATION MINE

0.6 i

Lathed wood

Nail
6.5 in.
\\iii~~~~~li 3.4

Carr ying

roG

This cylindrical homemade mine is constructed of cast iron. The mine body
is painted grey and has serrations for fragmentation effect.
When the wire r ing is pulled out, the friction-type igniter ignites the time
fuze and detonates the blasting cap, which in turn detonates the mine.

Characteristics
Color Grey ( cast iron color )
Over- all weight 1 kg/2 lb
Diameter 50 mm/2 in.
Explosive char ge TNT
Oper ation Common friction- type fuze

49
EODS-65- 3

VI ET CONG HOMEMADE ANTIPERSONNEL MINE

6.4 in.

This mine is constructed of sheet metal with a dark painted case. It is a

modified grenade equipped with one iron (or tin) lug on its body. Its operation
is similar to a homemade grenade. When the safety ring is pulled out, the spring
is released and the firing pin strikes the primer and detonates the mine.

Characteristics
Color Dark grey
Over-all weight o. 860 kg/2 lb
Length 160 mm/6 in.
Diameter 65 mm/2 in.
Thickness and quality
of the case O. 5-mm sheet metal

50
 EODS-65-3

VIET CONG LOCALLY MANUFACTURED CYLINDRICAL

FRAGMENTATION MINE

3. 4 in. 3.8 in.

radius

.. - -1 - - - - - - - ... - - - - -

: 3.8 in. 4.8 in. liilWW~W!!!j~~liil~

.. - ·r - · - - . - - - - ·
I
I

10 in. 10 in.
2 in.

22 in.

___]_____ -- - 3.}in.
- "'----r-. -- · - · -- . 6.8 in
I
I 3.81in.__
- I
--- - ~.4 in

20 in.
i
22 in.

This locally manufactured cylindrical fragmentation mine, with serrations,

is constructed of cement; it is electrically fired. There are two iron swivels on
the mine body to tie it to an object. On one side of the mine head is a round iron
pipe, 95 mm/3. 8 in. in diameter, and on the other side is a hole to accommodate
the electric blasting cap.

Characteristics
Color Grey
Over-all weight 6 kg/13 lb
Length of the mine body 250 mm/10 in.
Height 120 mm/5 in.
Explosive TNT (poor quality)
Mixture of mine body Cement
Operation Electric

51
EODS-65-3

SHAPED CHARGE

I
I
_L
_;;;•'1 '~~~ -
~· --;;/"'"-':;:_ ---,'- -,>:''"•,,,
" .,':£~:-::. -- -:-:=--· . .. :':" - --.. ·. . . :.~----·-.._ . .: ---- .,:.;., '
~· .-· -· -·
0

____,,I
! L...--0---

This is a Viet Cong homemade shaped cnarge mine which has 3 legs to a ct
as a stand off. The explosive charge container is constructed of black sheet
metal, rolled and hermetically welded.

Characteristics
Color Unpainted
Over- all weight 9. 500 kg/21 lb
Charge TNT (poor quality)
Size of igniter well threads 52 mm/2 in.
Charge weight 6. 100 kg/13-1/2 lb
Weight of mine body 2. 950 kg/6 lb
Height 270 mm/11 in.
Lower diameter 220 mm/9 in.
Upper diameter 120 mm/5 in.
Thickness 1 mm of black sheet metal
Operation Electric

52
 EODS-65-3

VIET CONG NONELECTRIC HOMEMADE HOLLOW CONE MINE

• I

1 •

11
I
I
I I I \1
I /1 I ,
I \'
I1

This mine is rudimentarily fabricated. It is conically shaped and made of

sheet metal held together with rivets. One handle and two supports are attached
to the case to provide equilibrium for the mine. It is equipped with two pressure-
pull igniting devices that detonate the mine in 9 seconds. These ignition devices
are attached to a charge holding hole by five screws.
The igniting device is locally made. It consists of a Caltex oil can which
contains two detonators, placed in parallel lines in the mine . The components of
the mine are two pressure-pull strings, two igniting devices, two igniter charges,
and two detonators .
To simultaneously pull two pressure-pull strings in order to ignite both
igniting devices, the Viet Cong connect two steel wires, 30-mm long each, to the
two pressure- pull strings to add distance.

53
EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Over-all length 204 mm/8 in.
Diameter at the largest part 219 mm/9 in.
Diameter at the smallest part 132 mm/5 in.
Diameter of the fuze well 51 mm/2 in.
Length of the handle 102 mm/4 in.
Length of the support 25 mm/1 in.
Over-all weight of the mine 7 kg/15 lb
Weight of the charge 4. 100 kg/9 lb
Weight of the mine case 2. 900 kg/6 lb

54
 EODS-65-3

VIET CONG SHORT CONE-SHAPED MINE

I
I
I
I •
1 '1
I J1' ' I
I
I j ' I
\ I
; ~I 11
IA •
I I 'I
I I ,

5in.
: : ; ·l: :
I I ' I I
I ~ - •- •- .J I

9.6 in.
- _____
~:~-·~~:?-
__ _ ,_ 5.5 in.
.. --- --- - .......
:_{/~:~ ~-=-_:~: :-~ :_J'. :·:--}:· :~ ~'~ ~...._-~~~'. -.'o
J I
~o

0
,.,.,.
'::~
----
• --·-- • +-·--· --•- - ,.-. ~

10 .8 in.
()
0 0
11.6 in.
0.5 in.
12.8 in.

The Viet Cong locally made short cone-shaped mine weighs 12. 500 kg/27 lb
and contains 7 kg/15 lb of TNT. Its outer case is made of sheet iron. The upper
part, 170 mm/7 in. in diameter, has two holes through which two electric blasting
caps are introduced (to increase reliability). The mine has a bell- shaped base,
270 mm/11 in. in diameter which has a rim of 320 mm/13 in. in diameter held
with a row of rivets. A handle is attached to the side of the mine case by two
rivets.

55
EODS-65-3

Characteristics
Color Black
Over-all weight 12. 500 kg/27 lb
Height 240 mm/10 in.
Upper diameter 170 mm/7 in.
Base diameter 270 mm/11 in.
Charge TNT ( poor quality)
Weight of charge 7 kg/15 lb
Weight of the mine case 5. 500 kg/12 lb
Material of the mine case Ordinary sheet iron
Markings Three number 4's
painted in red in a
triangle on the body
of the mine.

56
 EODS-65-3

VIET CONG HOMEMADE WATER MINE

The Viet Cong homemade water mine is constructed in the shape of a short
cone and fabricated from sheet metal held together by rivets. The water mine is
usually painted black and marked with the number 11 4" at three different spots on
its outer case.
This is a type of standardized-shaped mine utilized by the Viet Cong. It is
constructed in different sizes and is operated by electricity. It is employed to
attack naval ships and boats.

57
EODS-65-3

Characteristics

Weight 12. 500 kg/27 lb

Operation Electricity
Height 291 mm/12 in.
Base diameter 275 mm/11 in.
Head diameter 173 mm/7 in.
Charge TNT
Weight of charge 7 kg/15 lb

58
 EODS- 65- 3

VIET CONG LOCALLY MADE WATER MINE

- Handle (transportation)

Detonator

I I I
I I
·---11
I I I
I
I
I
I
I '
6 in.
I

,_.'_--r----·----
I
I

Booster
I
Main charge ~---- 21.8 in .
,____.,
I

I
I

I
L - - - - j - - - -.........-
Handle (carrying) 0 0 0

8. 6 in.

l
- -- -----4.7 in.

The Viet Cong locally made water mine is made of sheet iron rolled into a
short conical shape and fastened with rivets.
This water mine is composed of two parts: the upper and the lower parts,
which are separated by a piece of sheet metal held together with inner and outer
rivets . They serve different purposes and have the following characteristics:
Upper P art: This contains the firing device and main charge composed of:
( 1) Electric primer
( 2) Detonator
( 3) Igniter
( 4) Charge

59
EODS-65-3

Lower Part: This is a hollow case designed to stabilize the water mine and
keep it buoyant underwater. To stabilize the water mine underwater, the Viet
Cong attach steel bars or wooden poles around the two handles attached to the
outer side.
To prevent water from leaking into the water mine and damaging the firing
device and the explosives, asphalt is put on the primer housing and around the
rivets. However, when mines are recovered and the two parts are disassembled,
they are al ways full of water.

Characteristics
Weight 36 kg/80 lb
Charge 19 kg/41 lb
Bottom diameter 435 mm/17 in.
Height 545 mm/22 in
Head diameter 152 mm/6 in.

REMARKS:
The Viet Cong homemade water mine is used to attack ships, but it is very
possible that the Viet Cong will camouflage it and float it downstream to destroy
bridges. Although homemade, the water mine is very destructive.

60
 EODS-65- 3

VIET CONG LOCALLY CONSTRUCTED SHAPED CHARGE

6 in,

4 in.

This short pyramidal shaped charge functions by electricity and is constructed

of rolled black sheet metal which is fastened together by rivets . There is a handle
attached to the bottom of the mine. The top and bottom of the mine are fastened
together by rivets.

Characteristics
Color Black
Over-all weight 8 kg/17-1/2 lb
Diameter 144 mm/6 in.
Length 214 mm/8-1/2 in.
Explosive charge Melinite
Size of fuze groove 2.5 mm
Weight of explosive charge 4. 915 kg/11 lb
Weight of charge body 3. 085 kg /6-1/2 lb
Thickness and material of mine body Bottom of mine, 1-mm thick; mine body
and top, 2- mm thick; black sheet metal
Markings on the mine Fuze well painted red; at the edge of the
mine are two figure 9' s opposite
one another.

61
EODS-65-3

VIET CONG LOCALLY MANUFACTURED "TURTLE" MINE

CONSTRUCTED OF SHEET METAL
8.9 in.
6.8 in.
3.6 in. Perspective
I

l
5.4 in.

1
L4in.

01 10
0 0
0 0 1.6 in.
0 0
1.9 in.
0 ': (o

This mine is constructed of separate pieces of black sheet metal put together
with rivets. There are four U-shaped supports placed across the bottom of the
mine.
Characteristics
Color Black
Over-all weight 9. 300 kg/20 lb
Explosive charge Melinite
Weight of explosive charge 3. 530 kg/7-1/2 lb
Weight of mine body 5. 770 kg/12- 1/2 lb
Height 134 mm/5-1/2 lb
Groove of the fuze hole 11. 5 mm/1/2 in.

62
 EODS- 65- 3

VIET CONG LONG AND ROUND MOUND SHAPED LOCALLY

MANUFACTURED MINE
/Carrying rope

1L6 in. 5.6in.

2 in
Detonator lead - - -

5.6 in. · -G>--- ·- . -GI-·- 5 in.

14 in.

This mine is constructed of cement and electrically operated. There are

two iron swivels on the mine body to tie it to an object. One side of the head
has a round iron pipe, 50 mm/2 in. in diameter, and the opposite side has a
hole to accommodate an electric blasting cap.

Characteristics
Color Grey
Over-all weight 6 kg/13 lb
Length 290 mm/12 in
Height 150 mm/6 in.
Diameter 140 mm/5- 3/4 in.
Explosive charge TNT (poor quality)
Operation Electric

63
EODS- 65-3

81-MM MORTAR CONTAINER MINE

Ll in.

u'
© .8
D
This mine is constructed of a mortar shell container with the cap intact and
the bottom plugged with a round piece of wood of the same diameter, 18 mm/5/8
in. thick, and fixed to the mine body by two nails. An electric blasting cap or
friction fuze can be utilized with this mine.

Mine Body:
( 1) Fuze hole
( 2) Fuze blocking plates

Fuze:
( 1) Spring
( 2) Two iron latches to attach the fuze to the mine opening
( 3) Brass friction wire to ignite the black powder
( 4) Brass pipe which houses the friction wire
( 5) Swivel in the end of the friction wire through which a hemp rope
is passed for leverage
( 6) Sealing washer
( 7) Wooden sealing plug with wax substance on the outside to keep
the contents dry.

64
•
 EODS-65-3

VIET CONG LOCALLY CONSTRUCTED ROUND VOLUME MINE

r-------------Detonator------------~
4. 6 in.

17. 2 in.

Detonator lead _ _ __,.

This locally manufactured mine is constructed of sheet metal and is fired

electrically. There are two primer detonators located in the head of the mine.

Characteristics
Color Dark green
Length 430 mm/17 in.
Diameter 115 mm/5 in.
Operation Electric
Over-all weight 7 kg/15 lb
Weight of explosive charge 6 kg/13 lb
Type of explosive charge Melinite (poor quality)
Thickness and mixture of
mine case 1/2 mm sheet metal
Marks on the mine body Red painting P + X 6 K
313, Type II.

65
EODS-65-3

HOMEMADE MINE DELAY FIRING DEVICE

Case

Ignition device
"\

This is a homemade type mine which functions by electricity and is exploded

by a time delay firing device. The fabrication is as follows:

Case: The explosive is placed in a US 5-gallon can, whose top remains the
same with cover and handle. A rectangular hole (size 13. 5 x 15 cm) is cut in the
bottom with a hinged cover under which a firing device is placed.

Ignition device: The ignition device is composed of two batteries (MAZDA

make or similar 4. 5-volt type) and two watches (1 each CAFOR and CYTAS or
similar watches).
Both watches have three hands; the minute and second hands have been cut
short. A small hole is bored through the crystal at the "12" on each watch dial.
A copper screw is placed in the drilled hole and a wire is connected between the
battery anode ( + ) and the screw. Another wire leads from the watch case to the
battery cathode ( -) and to a jack.

66
 EODS-65-3

Explosive: The can contains 20 kg ( 45 lb) of explosives. Two holes have

been bored on the center plate and two wires from the explosive go through these
holes and connect to two outer plugs. Time setting is then adjusted in order to
explode the mine at a prescribed time. At the prescribed time, the hour hand
touches the copper screw at the "12" . Electricity from the battery will flash to
the ignition device and the explosive will detonate.

ATTENTION:
This mine only requires one watch and one battery to function. But here,
the Viet Cong used a double system (two watches and two batteries) with no other
purpose than to make the mine more reliable. (In case one watch in out of order,
the other continues to operate.)

67
DEMOLITION MATE RIAL
 EODS-65-3

CHEMICAL FIRING DEVICE

..

8 in .

This firing device is employed by the Viet Cofig for sabotage purposes. It is
attached to mines and TNT demolition blocks. Its delay is between 20 and 38
minutes and the reaction is by chemical solution, copper sulfate ( CuS04) •
The firing device is constructed of the following components:
( 1) Cap
( 2) Fuze body (contains the solution, end cap spring, and firing pin release
wire made of copper or iron
( 3) Copper sulfate solution container (made of glass)
( 4) End cap (constructed of copper and contains cotton)
( 5) Iron wire
( 6) 1-mm firing pin spring
( 7) Iron firing pin

69
EODS-65-3

( 8) Primer
( 9) Fuze
( 10) Tetryl charge
When the solution tube is broken, the solution runs down to the cotton
container, soaks the release wire, and causes a chemical reaction. This reaction
goes to a fixed degree until the release wire is eroded through, then the spring
forces the firing pin against the primer.
With a 15%CuS04 solution (copper sulfate+ blue alum+ 2 or 3 drops of
hydrochloric acid), the 3/10 mm release wire possibly can be eroded away and
detonate the device within 28 to 38 minutes. With a 10% CuSo4 solution (copper
sulfate+ blue alum+ 2 or 3 drops of hydrochloric acid), the 3/10 mm release
wire will be eroded away and detonate the device within 20 to 30 minutes.

Characteristics
Firing pin release wire 3 mm/O. 12 in. thick
120 mm/5 in. long
12 mm/O. 48 in. wide
Solution container 25 mm/1 in. long
9 mm/O. 4 in. wide
End cap 13 mm/O . 5 in. long
12 mm/O. 48 in. wide
Iron wire 3/10 mm to 5/10 mm
Firing pin spring 7 mm/O. 3 in. wide
13 mm/O. 5 in. long

70
 EODS- 65-3

CHINESE COMMUNIST LA2B BLASTING MACHINE

The Chinese Communist LA2B blasting machine is used to detonate all

types of electrical blasting caps.
It can detonate 10 blasting caps simultaneously.

Characteristics
Case Metal
Height 170 mm/7 in.
Width 140 mm/5-1/2 in.
Weight. 2. 650 kg/5-1/2 lb

71
EODS- 65-3

RUSSIAN TNT DEMOLITION BLOCK

ron
TIPECCOBAHHbl~
Bee 400 rpaMM

The Russian TNT demolition block is rectangular shaped and has a 6 mm/
1/4 in. diameter hole in the end of the block. It is covered with wax paper which
has an inscription in Russian as to the contents. This demolition block is used
as a booster block for all demolition work.

Characteristics
Weight 0. 400 kg or 3/4 lb
Si ze 50 x 50 x 100 mm/2 x 2 x 4 in.

72
 EODS-65-3

CHINESE COMMUNIST TNT DEMOLITION BLOCK

2 in

~ 2 0 0
The Chinese Communist TNT demolition block is rectangular in shape,
yellowish in color, wrapped in oil paper with Chinese markings on the outside
meaning: TNT Demolition Block, 200 grams.
A number of demolition blocks of this type are assembled by the Viet Cong
into a satchel charge, which weighs 5, 10, 15 or 20 kg, and affixed to the ends of
a bamboo pole, 4 to 5 m long.

Characteristics
Color Yellow
Height 50 mm/2 in.
Length 100 mm/4 in.
Width 25 mm/1 in.
Weight 200 g/1/2 lb
Marking Yellow label with black
printed ( ChiCom)
characters
Flammable temperature From 81° to 82. 6° C
Explosion temperature 175° c
Detonation velocity 6900 mps/22, 637 fps

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EODS-65-3

CHINESE COMMUNIST RED PHOSPHORUS

6 in.

9 in.

R[D AMORPHOUS
tp • A ~ ~ i:O 12! ~ il,
MADE IN
THE P[OP!.E~ REPUBLIC OF CHINA
~· • .li ~ JT
NET WEIGHT 5 KILOS
~ J~· I NF LAM MABLE
~Pu~ DANGEROUS
~~ >~ KE EP DRY
ffi! ~k HANDLE WITH CARE

Red phosphorus, manufactured by the Chinese Communist is a powder- type

product of slight sensitivity. The temperature required to burn in the air is
260° C. At normal temperature, this substance when mixed with potassium
chlorate or potassium nitrate increases the sensitivity.
The mixture of red phosphorus and potassium chlorate or potassium nitrate
is used as the explosive filler in mines, grenades, flying bombs, and mortar and
artillery shells. This mixture will provide a thick screen of smoke and a mild
explosive effect.

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 EODS- 65- 3
Characteristics

Case Sheet metal

Color Grey
Dimension 230 x 150 x 150 mm/
9 x 6 x 6 in.
Over-all weight 5 kg/ 11 lb
Markings Label "Red Horse" in
English and Chinese
characters

75