Encyclopedia · Fuzes, primers, and ignition

Parrott percussion fuze

The Parrott percussion fuze was an impact fuze for Parrott and other rifled projectiles, made in more than one pattern, that fired the charge when the shell struck.

Also known as: Parrott percussion fuse.

In the Half Shell Book: This subject is treated in Civil War Artillery Projectiles: The Half Shell Book, pp. 19-20.
ClassPercussion fuze
ActionFires the charge on impact
MaterialMade in zinc, in more than one type
AssociationParrott rifled projectiles

The Parrott impact fuze

The Parrott percussion fuze was the impact fuze of the Parrott rifled projectiles, made in successive patterns and commonly of zinc. On impact an internal element was thrown forward onto a primer to fire the bursting charge.

Collectors distinguish the Parrott percussion fuze types by their body form and construction, and they are found seated in the fuze holes of Parrott shells.

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