Abstract: A linear fire extinguisher of the type containing superpressurized Halon in a cylindrical container which is cut by an explosive linear shaped charge is contained in an overall housing which, in addition to preventing fragments from escaping, diverts the outflow of extinguishant to provide an equal and opposite reaction force to the momentum force of the outflow. In addition, the diversion occurs through apertures in the housing to opposed paths in directions substantially perpendicular to the reaction forces to again, nullify any forces due to this perpendicular outflow. The invention is also applicable to other container configurations where a high impulse force might occur.