Signal Pistol Cartridges

These specialist cartridges are designed for loading into what appear to be over-sized pistols. Generally each cartridge contained a small propelling charge that when activated could launch the projectile a number of yards from the pistol.

The primary purpose - as the name hints - of these cartridges is to create a signal that can be seen by onlookers. The method differs depending upon the intended use of the cartridge. Smoke cartridges were meant for use during the day, with colored smoke to draw the attention of anyone in the area, while flare cartridges that created a bright intense light were intended for night time use. Some cartridges even included a whistle, so that the cartridge would make a high pitched sound as it passed through the air.

All belligerents during the Second World War made extensive use of Flare and Smoke cartridges, while some invested in the development of cartridges that could carry a small explosive charge similar to a hand grenade. But the small size of signal pistol cartridges meant the explosive charge was of a very small size and thus of little combat value.