Overview and Answer-First Summary
The Phoenician Scheme hand grenade refers to a specific hand grenade component or marking associated with the U.S. M67 fragmentation grenade used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War era. The name likely originates from the code 'Phoenician Scheme' stamped on components or the weapon system used to arm, assemble, or mark practice variants in ammunition lot or refurbishment programs. This overview explains the M67’s design, the suspected meaning of the term, and why it is referenced in ordnance records without confirming a distinct standalone device labeled as a separate grenade type.
M67 Fragmentation Grenade: Core Specifications
The M67 is a fragmentation hand grenade adopted by the U.S. Army in the late 1960s, replacing the M33 series. It consists of a cast iron spherical body with a notched fragmentation coil inside, a screw-on cap, a safety clip, and a M216 series arming/firing mechanism. Key performance attributes are consistent across practice, drill, and service variants, emphasizing predictable casualty effects for training and combat.
Typical M67 Specifications Table
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Official Designation | Hand Grenade, M67 | U.S. Army Technical Manual |
| Filling | Composition B (TNT/wax) | TM 9-1005-279-10 |
| Fragments | Approximately 2,500 preformed fragments | DoD Test Data / Field Reports |
| Weight | 14.5 oz (411 g) | TM 9-1005-279-10 |
| Effective Range | 15 m (fragmentation), 5 m (blast) | U.S. Army Field Manuals |
| Fuse | M216 series (4–5 second delay) | Ordnance Catalogs |
Practice, Drill, and Marked Variants
During training, services used inert, drill, and spotter grenades with distinct markings to differentiate live rounds from inert units. The term Phoenician Scheme may relate to lot codes, refurbishment stamps, or arming components applied to practice grenade bodies or training assemblies. Such markings ensure handlers can immediately identify non-lethal variants on ranges and in depots.
Practice Grenade Marking Patterns (Illustrative)
- Inert/training bodies: Often marked INERT or Drill in block letters
- Component markings: Arming kits or fuse assemblies may bear lot or inspection codes
- Paint bands: Red, blue, or other colors indicate practice or limited-fuse variants
Historical Context and Service Use
The M67 entered service in Vietnam and remained in U.S. inventories through the 1990s, seeing use in multiple conflicts. The appearance of Phoenician Scheme on ordnance records suggests involvement in component-level logistics, refurbishment, or quality assurance programs rather than a new grenade model. Understanding this context helps prevent confusion with distinct NATO or Warsaw Pact grenade types.
Myths, Misidentifications, and Source Gaps
Online discussions sometimes conflate Phoenician Scheme with export variants, foreign practice grenades, or entirely fictional devices. In reality, the designation most plausibly refers to markings on U.S. M67 components or training assemblies. When precise technical orders or depot labels are unavailable, claims should be treated with caution and cross-referenced against verified ordnance documentation.
Practical Identification and Safety Notes
Handling any military ordnance requires professional training and strict protocols. If you encounter a marked grenade or component, do not attempt to disassemble or move it. Contact local EOD or ordnance disposal authorities immediately. Correct identification relies on consulting current service manuals, depot records, and, when available, TM/NAVSEA technical documentation.