Editing Claymore mine (section)

== Description ==
The M18A1 Claymore mine has a horizontally convex gray-green plastic case (inert training versions are light blue or green with a light blue band). The shape was developed through experimentation to deliver the optimum distribution of fragments at {{convert|50|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}} range. The case has the words "FRONT TOWARD ENEMY" embossed on the front of the mine.<ref>FM 3–21.75 Ch. 14</ref> A simple open sight on the top surface allows for aiming the mine. Two pairs of scissor legs attached to the bottom support the mine and allow it to be aimed vertically. On both sides of the sight are fuse wells set at 45°.

Internally the mine contains a layer of [[C-4 (explosive)|C-4 explosive]] behind a matrix of about seven hundred {{convert|1/8|in|mm|0|adj=mid|-diameter}} steel balls set into an [[epoxy resin]].

When the M18A1 is detonated, the explosion drives the matrix forward, out of the mine at a velocity of {{convert|1200|m/s|abbr=on|order=flip}},<ref name="Grupp" /> at the same time breaking it into individual fragments. The steel balls are projected in a 60° fan-shaped pattern that is {{convert|2|m|ft|0|order=flip}} high and {{convert|50|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}} wide at a range of {{convert|50|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}}. The force of the explosion deforms the relatively soft steel balls into a shape similar to a [[.22 rimfire]] projectile.<ref name="Grupp" /> These fragments are moderately effective up to a range of {{convert|100|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}}, with a hit probability of around 10% on a prone man-sized {{convert|1.3|sqft|m2|adj=on}} target. The fragments can travel up to {{convert|250|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip|sigfig=1}}. The optimum effective range is {{convert|50|m|ft|abbr=on|order=flip}}, at which the optimal balance is achieved between lethality and area coverage, with a hit probability of 30% on a man-sized target.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/munitions/m18-claymore.htm|title=M18 Claymore|first=John|last=Pike|website=www.globalsecurity.org|access-date=4 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180405090136/https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/munitions/m18-claymore.htm|archive-date=5 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>

The weapon and all its accessories are carried in an M7 [[bandolier]] ("Claymore bag"). The mine is detonated as the enemy personnel approaches the killing zone. Controlled detonation may be accomplished by use of either an electrical or non-electrical [[detonator|firing system]]. When mines are employed in the controlled role, they are treated as individual weapons and are reported in the unit [[fire plan]]. They are not reported as mines; however, the emplacing unit must ensure that the mines are removed, detonated, or turned over to a relieving unit. The {{convert|100|ft|m|adj=on}} M4 electric firing wire on a green plastic spool is provided in each bandolier. The M57 firing device (colloquially referred to as the "clacker") is included with each mine. An M40 circuit test set is packed in each case of six mines. When the mines are [[Daisy chain (electrical engineering)|daisy-chained]] together, one firing device can detonate several mines.

The mine can be detonated by any mechanism that activates the blasting cap. There are field-expedient methods of detonating the mine by tripwire, or by a timer, but these are rarely used.