Grenede

Grenede, commonly translated as grenades in English, are small explosive devices designed to be thrown by hand or fired from a launcher. They contain an explosive charge and a delay mechanism to allow the user to retreat a safe distance before detonation, producing a blast and, in many designs, fragmentation. The term grenade derives from the French grenade, originally used for the pomegranate-shaped appearance of early devices.

Origins and development: Early forms appeared in Europe during the early modern period, evolving from incendiary or hollow-shell devices to standardized infantry weapons. In the 20th century fragmentation grenades became standard for close-quarters combat, while specialized variants were developed for signaling, smoke screening, or distraction. The broader category includes fragmentation, smoke, flare, and practice ordnance.

How they work (high level): a fuse, percussion cap, or other delay initiates the explosive charge after arming; the body can fragment, creating shrapnel. Some variants use percussion or timed fuzes. The exact mechanisms vary by model and era, but the general principle is to project fragments at nearby targets while keeping arming distances and safety protocols in mind.

Safety and legality: grenede are controlled military equipment in most jurisdictions. They require specialized training and are typically restricted to military and certain law enforcement roles. Civilian possession is regulated or prohibited in many places, and international humanitarian law governs their use in armed conflict. Handling, transport, and storage are governed by strict safety procedures to minimize accidental detonation.