Abstract: This invention relates to safety and simplicity in initiating high explosives. The new method uses a hybrid system for electro-mechanically initiating either fast burning detonating cord or slower burning plastic initiating tube or fires electric blasting caps.The subject initiating system consists of four (4) basic components: a capacitor discharge power supply connected to a standoff cable reel, a wiring standoff cable spooled out from said reel to a solenoid housing.Within the housing, the system is again broken down into sub-components. A connector plug and socket connects the standoff cable to a pulse type electrical solenoid. The solenoid is positioned so that when said solenoid is electrically actuated the solenoid's plunger or firing pin strikes a shot shell primer which is inserted into a coupling device.