Abstract: A mortar design according to the present invention has been described. The mortar of the present invention weighs substantially less than the presently available mortars. Furthermore, the mortar of the present invention provides a dampening mechanism which substantially dampens the movement of the entire mortar assembly during firing of rounds.

Abstract: A method for transmitting detonation at 90.degree. and other sharp angles using special end tips. Cylindrical end tip cups are loaded in a shaped die under sufficient pressure to change the shape to a square or rectilinear cross-section. The flat side of one end tip is placed adjacent the end of a second end tip to transmit detonation at a sharp angle.

Abstract: Detonation of an acceptor charge by a donor charge across an intervening where the two charges are not axially aligned is achieved by shaping the respective charges to control the direction of the fragments of the donor charge and their impact pattern upon the acceptor charge.

Abstract: A booster charge is provided with an arcuate, semi-cylindrical surface dised in continuous contact with a length of explosive cord at a location medial of its length. A donor charge detonates the booster which, in turn, applies the detonation force to a side portion of the explosive cord to produce a cord detonation propagating axially in both directions. Reliability of the cord detonation is increased by the increased amount of the booster charge closely adjacent to the cord and by some focusing of the booster charge. The shock wave propagation in the cord is reliably augmented by the booster. The increased reliability factors permit miniaturization of the donor charge, the booster and the cord.