The Panzerhandmine 3 (which the Germans abbreviate to
P.H.M. 3) is a magnetic hollow charge intended for use as a
close-combat weapon against Allied tanks and similar armored
targets. A series of magnets around the bottom of the charge
cause the weapon to adhere to the target. The charge is
German Air Force issue, and is the Air Force counterpart of the
standard German Army magnetic hollow charge 3 kg.
(Hafthohlladung 3 Kg.), which it resembles in design and
employment.
German documents state that the Panzerhandmine 3 will
penetrate 6-inch armor plate, creating a 1 1/4-inch hole and
causing a great deal of scaling within the vehicle. Outside the
vehicle, metal splinters may be expected to be hurled as far
away as 100 yards.
This hollow-charge weapon is 10 3/4 inches high and 5 1/2
inches in diameter, and weighs 8 pounds. It contains a 2 1/2-pound
charge of TNT or RDX/TNT. A compressed-paper body
encases the charge and the magnets. A web carrying handle is
attached to a metal neck band. The hemispherical cavity of the
hollow charge is closed with a metal sheet liner.
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The
Panzerhandmine 3, a magnetic hollow charge. |
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A
bottom view of the Panzerhandmine 3. Note the six magnets for use against
metal surfaces, and the keeper with spikes for use against
wooden surfaces. |
Three pairs of magnets are mounted around the interior of
the compressed-paper skirt. In transit these magnets are
protected by an iron keeper ring, which has a web handle fastened
to it for easy withdrawal. On one side of the keeper are three
equidistant spikes, which permit the charge to be attached to
wooden surfaces. The keeper is reversed in transit, so that the
spikes fit between the magnets.
The Panzerhandmine 3 is fired with a yellow-head,
7 1/2-second-delay friction igniter.