Methods of Destruction

TM 11-6780-225-12

(2) Cut. Use axes, handaxes, machetes, and

5-8. Methods of Destruction

similar tools to cut cabling, tubing, and wiring. Cut all

NOTE

cords and cables in a number of places.

Report the destruction of the

WARNING

equipment

through

command

Be extremely careful with explosives

channels.

and incendiary devices. Use these

a. If complete destruction of the equipment cannot

items only when the need is urgent.

be accomplished in the time available, destroy the

(3) Burn. Burn cords, cables, film, hoses,

following components in the older given:

and technical manuals; use gasoline, kerosene, oil,

(1) All optics.

flamethrowers, or incendiary grenades.

(2) All mechanical and electrical items.

(4) Bend.

Bend

chassis,

control

(3) All film.

mechanisms, trays, and tongs.

(4) All plumbing.

(5) Explode. Use explosives to complete

demolition or to cause maximum damage when time

(5) Driers.

does not permit demolition by other means. Powder

(6) All other equipment.

charges, fragmentation grenades, or incendiary

b. Use any of the following methods:

grenades may be used. Incendiary grenades usually are

most effective if destruction of small parts and wiring, is

(1) Smash.

Smash the plumbing, sinks,

desired.

storage drawers and cabinets, controls, switches,

safelights, timers, motors, pumps, pressure switch,

(6) Dispose. Bury or scatter the destroyed

thermostats, circuit breakers, doors, and lamps; use

pants in slit trenches, foxholes, or throw them into

sledges, axes, hammers, crowbars, and any other heavy

streams. This is particularly important if a number of

tools available to smash the equipment.

parts have not been completely destroyed.

5-2