
                         Cratering charge

 Ammonium nitrate (AN) fertilizer is a material that is readily
available in many parts of the world. With AN and one other
ingredient, we have the ability to tailor make cratering charges
to fit our needs. A rule of thumb for an improvised cratering
charge is as follows:
To each 25 pounds of ammonium nitrate fertilizer, which should be
the prilled or pellitized variety, add about one quart of diesel
fuel, motor oil, used or not, or gasoline.  Allow the charge to
soak for one hour, prime with one pound of TNT or equivalent, tamp
well in a suitable borehole, and detonate. Do not allow the AN to
become wet with water. A 40 pound charge of AN will produce a nice
crater.


                  Ammonium Nitrate Satchel Charge

 While the cratering charge is a good one, it is only suitable for
cratering. A more versatile charge can be made from AN, using wax
as the second ingredient rather than oil.  The procedure for
making this charge is merely to melt ordinary paraffin and stir in
AN pellets, insuring that the wax is thoroughly mixed with the AN
while still hot. Before the mixture hardens, add a 1/2 pound block
of TNT or its equivalent as a primer. A #10 can makes a good
container for this charge. The addition of shrapnel and a handle
to the exterior of the charge makes an excellent satchel charge or
booby trap. Suitably sealed, this device will keep well and will
not draw moisture.

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