Abstract: An amputation system includes a cutting element having a cutting blade traversing a V-shape. The V-shape has a vertex and an angle in a range of 90-120°. A rod, rigidly coupled to the cutting element, has its longitudinal axis aligned with the vertex so it bisects the angle of the V-shape. A barrel having a bore receives at least a portion of the rod therein wherein the rod's outboard end resides in the bore. An energetic energy source, positioned in the bore adjacent to the rod's outboard end, generates a pressure force that is incident on the rod's outboard end. The pressure force is one that peaks within 0.5 milliseconds to propel the rod from the bore at a velocity in a range of 300 to 1000 feet per second.