Miniature practice bombs (MPB) Mk 5 Mods 2 and 3, the MPB AN-Mk 23 Mod 1, and MPB Mk 43 Mod 1 are similar in physical appearance, but differ basically in the metal used to cast the body. Bomb Mk 5 is manufactured from zinc alloy and weighs the least of the three bombs.
Bomb AN-Mk 23 is made of cast iron. Bomb Mk 43 is manufactured from cast lead and is the heaviest of the three bombs. The cast body has a bore throughout its transverse axis which houses a signal and firing-pin assembly. Four fins are cast integrally with the bomb body.
Miniature practice bomb Mk 5 is used for bombing practice on armored-deck target boats. Bomb AN-Mk 23 is authorized for all bombing practice except that involving armored-deck target boats. MPB Mk 43 is used for low altitude, horizontal or dive bombing and on armored-deck target boats. Bombs Mk 5, AN-Mk 23, and Mk 43 are used with the Mk 4 signal. These bombs also are used with the Mk 5 signal which contains a fluorescein dye and is actuated by impact on water. When the Mk 5 signal is installed, the firing pin assembly is not used. Special containers are utilized by aircraft to carry and release these bombs.
Signal, Practice Bomb, Mk 4 Mod 3, 4
Signal, Practice Bomb, Mk 5 Mod 0
Bomb, 3 lb Practice, Mk 5 Mod 1, 2, 3
Bomb, 3 lb Practice, Mk 43 Mod 1
Signal, Practice Bomb, Mk 4 Mod 3, 4
Signal, Practice Bomb, Mk 5 Mod 0
TM 9-1325-200, Bombs and Bomb Components (1966)
OP 2216, Volume 1 - Aircraft Bombs, Fuzes, and Associated Components (1960)
OP 1280, Aircraft Bombs (1955)
OP 1664, Volume 2 - US Explosive Ordnance (1947)
USNBD - Bombs and Fuzes, Pyrotechnics (1945)
TM 9-1904, Ammunition Inspection Guide (1944)