Description
The M89 has the shape of a candle, for there is no ogive to improve ballistic properties, but only a blunt, perpendicular, slug-like stub. The complete round weighs 9.83 pounds and is approximately 20.25 inches in length. Because of its method of emitting smoke, the shell is termed a “base-emission” or “base ignition” shell. This is abbreviated to “BI” in the nomenclature.
The Smoke Shell M89, with its squared off nose, resembles an ordinary tin can more than an artillery projectile. It is in the shape of a cylinder 7.49 inches long, and weighing 6.61 pounds, loaded. The shell consists of a tube and base which together constitute the body, and a charge of HC smoke.
Hazardous Components
The HC charge is loaded into the shell in three steps. At the closed end of the tube the smoke charge of approximately 1.68 pounds of HC (hexachloroethane zinc mixture) is pressed into place. Behind that, the priming smoke charge of approximately 1.33 pounds of HC is loaded under pressure. Finally, a charge pellet of 0.017 pound of HC is inserted, followed by the plug and cap assembly.
Total HC weight is 3.027lb (1.36 kg).
Primer - M31A2
Propelling charge - FNH powder (0.219 lb, 0.1 kg)
See Also
Source(s)
TM 9-1904, Ammunition Inspection Guide (1944)
