British Naval AX Mk.3 Acoustic Grenade

[oktato]

Hi,

I’m hoping someone has more information on the British Navy AX Mk.3 Acoustic Grenade and Clip shown in the attached photos.

I remember seeing a photo of the discharger mechanism on BOCN years ago, but can’t find it anymore.

Does anyone have the photo and/or more information on how they were used?

Thanks for any information.

Gary

 

[millsbomber]

i posted the picture as you say years ago try searching with my name.

millsbomber

 

[oktato]

Hi Dave,

Got it! I managed to find the attached posts from Paul the Grenade, Bonnex and yourself.

Everything I wanted!

Cheers,

Gary

 

[oktato]

Hmmm, I spoke too soon!

The more I try to understand these AX Mk.3 charges, the more questions I have.

Firstly, does anyone know what A.X. stands for?

Secondly, does anyone know what they were used for?

If they were intended to detonate unexploded mines, why were different charges, including inert charges, needed to create a sound pattern?

Thanks for any further info!

Cheers,

Gary

 

[MINENAZ16]

Info here with Belgian version :

1950\'s and 60\'s Belgian Grenades

Here are a selection of Belgian Grenades from the 1950's and 60's. From my collection and all inert of course. Descriptions to follow when I can find the book I've misplaced. Tony.

www.bocn.co.uk

Belgian M67 sweep grenade tech drawimngs

Hi guys, is there anyone out there who can shed light on or translate some of the text on these tech drawings for a 50's/60's issue Belgian M67 \"sweep\" grenade ? thanks in advance, Tony.

www.bocn.co.uk

 

[oktato]

Hi Minenaz16,
Thanks for the info on the Belgian grenades.
I understand that the M67A1 was a Belgian Offensive Hand Grenade made by combining British AX Mk.3 Charges with a Belgian Striker Mechanism.
I’m still looking for information on the purpose of the AX Mk.3 Charges in British Naval Service…
Cheers,
Gary

 

[Antoon]

The Dutch Navy had also the A.X.-series grenade in use and has now the German Acoustic underwater grenade DM 119. The purpose is communication with submarines.

 

[oktato]

Hi Antoon,

Thanks for the extra info.

I remember that I used to have small plastic Dutch grenades with a similar arrangement of striker mechanism with no safety lever.

Do you have any documentation on any of these?

Thanks for your help.

Cheers,

Gary

 

[US-Subs]

No data, but here are a couple more examples.

 

[oktato]

Brilliant!

I’ve never seen the German version before!

So, any views on whether they were used to a) sweep for mines or b) communicate with subs?

Thanks for another piece of the jigsaw!

Gary