Abstract: An exploding bridge wire (EBW) initiator assembly is provided which is particularly adapted for the initiation of an attached length of low energy shock wave conductor. The EBW comprises a hollow tube having an exploding bridge wire in one end of the tube, which directly initiates a length of shock wave conductor inserted into the opposite end of the tube. The entire assembly may be housed within a protective enclosure adapted for snap-fit connection with a source of electrical energy. The initiator can be initiated by relatively low voltage power supplies and is significantly safer than conventional EBW initiators.