The British No. 34 "Egg Grenade", introduced in 1917, was designed to counter the German Model 1917 Eierhandgranate. These compact grenades were particularly suited for close-quarters trench warfare, where portability and ease of use were critical.
The German Eierhandgranate had proven to be highly practical, featuring a small, teardrop-shaped body with a smooth finish and a pull-wire detonator. It was lighter and more portable than the bulky Model 24 stick grenade, allowing soldiers to carry several at a time and throw them effectively over longer distances. In response, the British Army developed the No. 34, incorporating a similar compact design and smooth exterior with a pull-wire mechanism.
The No. 34 grenade employed an internal percussion delay fuse. To activate, the user removed a safety pin and struck the grenade against a hard surface, triggering an internal plunger mechanism. The plunger severed a wire, igniting the primer cap, which in turn started the delay fuse leading to the detonator. Once armed, the grenade had to be thrown promptly to avoid injury.
The compact size and efficient design of the No. 34 made it an effective addition to the British Army's arsenal, offering improved functionality for trench combat scenarios.
*Condition*
A fascinating piece to survive WW1. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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