Signal rocket launcher (pistol). Signal-type signal rocket in the form of a pen

Signal pistols do not belong to popular types of weapons, nevertheless in the arsenal of avid hunters, tourists and security guards are mandatory. Simple design, ease of maintenance and a rather effective result of the action make it possible to use such rocket launchers under difficult conditions, and in the order of on-duty maintenance at responsible points. From the point of view of law, signal rocket launchers, pistols and other variations of illuminating and sound handguns do not apply to combat models and can be used without special permission.

General information

There are many versions and modifications of the signal weapon, but in the standard version the pistol-rocket launcher is a non-automatic weapon in the form of a handle. His device in many respects repeats the design principles of smooth-bore rifle, which provides for a fracture of the trunk. In fact, the signal rocket launcher can be attributed to one of the stages of the evolution of the classic hunting rifle, because the same principle also develops ammunition for pyrotechnic signaling.

In addition, that the flare missile in the first versions was produced on the platform of shortened rifles, later the most popular calibers were adopted. However, the marking systems still have discrepancies. For example, the barrel of a rocket launcher at 26 mm can be considered as an analog of the 4th hunting caliber. In the standard version, the missile launcher is a single-barrel weapon, but there are double-barreled models.

Operating principle

The shot is usually accompanied by noise, which is produced by the formation of a gas mixture from a warhead. At the moment of activation of the detonating capsule, the impact of the charge, releasing chemical energy, occurs by impact of the striker. Expanding gas and forms a shock wave in the air. If a flarescreen signal lamp with a light effect is used, the key processes occur at altitude, when the chemical substances of the rocket launcher brightly illuminate the flight path. As in the case of smoke warheads, light missile launchers may not produce any noise effects at all - however, today there are many variants of cartridges in which the combined principle of action is realized.

Purpose and application

The missile launchers perform two main functions - scaring off and drawing attention (alerting). Each cartridge model has a certain signal effect - light, sound or smoke. Depending on the purposes and conditions of use, a specific option is selected - for example, for deterrence and intimidation, a signal rocket is recommended with sound impact charges, and lighting models are more often used for informing, signaling aid, etc. Smoke charges are less common, but their role is also significant. For example, smoke is used to disguise or denote landing sites. However, for such purposes, special installations or warheads with large calibers are more often used.

In addition, the signal pistol can be used as a training tool, which develops skills of handling already with a combat analog. In this respect, such models allow us to master not only the technical mechanism of exploitation, but also psychologically to get used to working "effects." For example, according to the degree of noise impact, the signal rocket launcher is not inferior, and in some cases exceeds the combat models. Actually, this is the reason for the demand for flare guns as a weapon for self-defense. Harm they do not bring, but the psychological effect is quite impressive.

Pistol Shpagin

One of the most successful representatives of domestic signal rocket launchers is the Shpagin pistol. This is a hand - operated smooth-bore weapon with which you can shoot with light bullets. Being a reliable and trouble-free helper, the missile signal SSN has a simple design and principle of operation. To charge, it is necessary to break the barrel of the rocket launcher and install a cartridge in it. In this case, the model does not differ with special aiming properties, and its rate of fire is about 12 shots per 1 min.

If a signal charge is used, the flight altitude can reach 120 m, and in the case of using asterisks - 150 m. Shooting can be carried out by cartridges intended for both day and night time. In addition to the signal warheads, the SSH is compatible with incendiary cartridges and even some modifications of gas grenades.

Signal Ammunition

Ammunition, which is completed with a pistol-rocket launcher, are presented in a wide range. They can be classified by the presence of parachutes, the effect of the action and the number of stars. The simplest charges include single-shot signal cartridges, but there are also warheads with several colors, as well as smoke bombs. The maximum lifting height reaches 150 m, but this figure is relevant for favorable conditions of use.

Pyrotechnic projectile, which launches a signal rocket in the form of a pen, is visible at a distance of several kilometers. Last time, combined cartridges are also common, in which along with color visual signaling a noise effect is provided - it is provided by a howling pyrotechnic whistle.

Safety with the use of rocket launchers

Like all devices that work with pyrotechnics, signal rockets require certain security measures:

• Manufacturers recommend always using the weapon as if it is loaded, and do not direct the barrel to people.
• If the capsule is not activated after pressing the trigger, it is recommended to wait up to 1 minute. As a rule, this is the effect of a "protracted shot," but if nothing happened after a while, you should discharge the gun.
• Used ammunition must be compatible with the model of the gun.
• In imitators of cartridges, you can not pull out capsules.

It can be noted that the signal rocket launchers, pistols and revolvers have protection systems, in some cases reducing the usability of this weapon. Realizing this, manufacturers do not recommend upgrading devices, getting rid of protection systems. In addition, it is forbidden to facilitate the triggers.