Description
The Mk 2 fragmentation hand grenade is used to supplement small arms fire against the enemy in close combat. The grenade produces casualties by high velocity projections of fragments.
The Mk 2 grenade is pineapple shaped with deep serrations of its body. These serrations delineate fragmentation of the body when the grenade explodes. No safety clip is authorized for use with this grenade.
The grenade body is of cast iron and contains a high explosive filler.
Grenade fuzes M204A1 and M204A2 are pyrotechnic delay-detonating fuzes. They differ only in body construction. The body contains a primer and a pyrotechnic delay column. Assembled to the body are a striker, striker spring, safety lever, safety pin with pull ring, and detonator assembly. The split end of the safety pin has an angular spread or diamond crimp.
Functioning
Removal of the safety pin permits release of the safety lever. When the safety lever is released, it is forced away from the grenade body by a striker acting under the force of a striker spring. The striker rotates on its axis and strikes the percussion primer. The primer emits a small, intense spit of flame, igniting the delay element. The delay element burns for 4 to 5 seconds, then sets off the detonator. The detonator explodes, thus initiating the explosive charge. The explosive charge explodes, rupturing the body and projecting fragments.
See Also
Source(s)
TM 43-0001-29, Grenades (chg 4, 2002)
OP 1664, Volume 2 - US Explosive Ordnance (1947)
TM 9-1904, Ammunition Inspection Guide (1944)
