sprängklinkan

Sprängklinkan is a hand-held mortar used in the Kingdom of Sweden during the 17th and 18th centuries. Its design is adapted from the earlier mortar explosion cylinder, called bubbelstigen, but with a few key improvements. The term "sprängklinkan" translates to "exploding tin" in Swedish, a description that reflects the device's function.

The sprängklinkan consists of a metal container, typically made of tin or a similar material, which contained a high explosive material such as black powder or a pyroclastic or a loose amalgamation of gunpowder, charcoal, and sulfur. A fuse was then lit and the device was hurled to the target area, where it would explode upon impact.

Militarily, the sprängklinkan was used for sieges, as the explosive force of the device could breach fortifications and weaken an opponent's defenses. It was also used for clearing obstacles, examples include breaching stone walls or fortifications and clearing fields for battle.

The sprängklinkan's use declined with the advent of more advanced technologies, such as cannons and grenades, which provided longer effective ranges and more reliable trigger systems. The device's portability however makes it an indication of the innovation demonstrated throughout history in the art of war where adaptations to conflict took place continuously.