Description
The APC-T cartridge M61A1 is used against ground targets, primarily armored materiel.
The projectile consists of three parts: a steel body which contains a small charge of explosive D, a steel armor piercing cap, and a 360° crimped lightweight steel or aluminum ballistic cap or windshield. The base is threaded to accommodate a base detonating fuze. This fuze functions with delay action, providing an opportunity for penetration before detonation occurs. The base of the fuze protrudes about beyond the rear of the projectile. This portion of the fuze contains a red tracer composition which operates independently of the fuze mechanism.
The M61 is similar to M61A1 except that it does not contain an explosive filler, and that the cavity in the base is closed by a steel base plug containing a tracer element similar to that of the M66A1 BD Fuze. The projectile is painted black and stenciled in white with the designation of the gun and of the complete round
Hazardous Components
Filler - Explosive D
Primer - M31B2, M32
Tracer
Propelling charge - M1 (2 lb, 0.9 kg)
See Also
Source(s)
TM 9-1300-203, Artillery Ammunition (1967)
TM 9-1904, Ammunition Inspection Guide (1944)
