The fact that Italy is no longer an active belligerent on the
side of the Axis does not eliminate the possibility that much
Italian equipment seized by the Nazis will not be used by the
latter against us. Therefore, the desirability of continuing to
report information regarding Italian weapons and equipment.
The Italian L type grenade was designed for use against vehicles
and tanks. It consists of a metal casing with a wooden throwing
handle. On the upper part of the casing there is a tab (a) (see sketch) for
removing the safety pin, and a small metal strip (b) protruding from the
base of the handle. This strip is a second safety precaution. The metal
strip (b) is held in position by the wire (d) on the side of the handle. This
wire is held in position by a piece of wired tape secured by a pin (c).
Before throwing the L type grenade remove the safety pin (a), and then, holding
the handle firmly, remove the pin (c). Be sure that the wire is held securely. When
the grenade is thrown, the wire releases the second safety pin (b).
According to instructions, the grenade should be thrown at a distance
of 50 to 80 yards from the target, and if possible, cover should be
taken after throwing
Before using the grenade make sure that:
(1) The safety pin (a) is firmly seated.
(2) The pin (c) is holding the strip of tape securely.
(3) The wire (d) is holding the metal strip (b) in position.
If the safety pin has been removed, the grenade should be handled with
care. If the wire (d) has been released the grenade is very dangerous
and should not be touched.
Specifications of the grenade are:
Overall length | | 15 inches |
Length of handle | | 10 3/4 inches |
Circumference of grenade | | 14 1/4 inches |
Total weight | | 4 1/2 pounds |