grenade

A grenade is a small explosive device designed to be thrown by hand or launched from a weapon. It is built to detonate after a short delay, producing a blast, fragmentation, smoke, or other effects depending on the design. Grenades are used by military, security forces, and certain civilian agencies, and they are subject to strict safety and legal controls.

The most common types are fragmentation grenades, which disperse high-velocity fragments to maximize damage over a wide cone; high-explosive grenades, which focus on a larger blast with less fragmentation; smoke and signaling grenades, which create visual effects or mark locations; incendiary grenades, designed to start fires or disable equipment; and stun or flashbang grenades, used to disorient with a bright flash and loud noise. Training or inert varieties are used for instruction and practice.

Typical grenades feature a safety mechanism, such as a pull pin and lever, that prevents detonation until the lever is released and the fuse begins. The fuse timing and the device’s casing determine the effects and hazard radius. Handling requires specialized training, careful procedures, and compliance with applicable laws and international norms.

Historically, grenades evolved from early explosive devices in 16th-17th century Europe and Asia to modern military designs. The widely known pineapple-style and spherical fragmentation grenades were refined during the 20th century; today many nations employ standardized fragmentation or multi-use designs. In civilian contexts, possession and use are tightly regulated and generally restricted to authorized personnel.