Military Museum Opens April 26 for the 2026 Season

Published on January 29, 2026
Duration: 10:14

This entry details WWII-era explosives and ordnance, including dynamite, landmines, and .50 caliber armor-piercing rounds, as presented by Mel Bernstein (Dragonman) at his military museum. The content emphasizes the historical context and the deactivated status of the items, offering insights into their mechanics and historical application. Instruction is provided by a recognized expert in military history and firearms collection.

Quick Summary

Dragonman's Military Museum in Colorado Springs features deactivated WWII explosives like M1 Dynamite and various landmines (M7, M7A1, M10). Expert Mel Bernstein demonstrates the power of .50 caliber AP rounds, capable of penetrating 1.5 inches of steel, and explains the activation mechanisms of the ordnance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00WWII Explosives Introduction
  2. 00:56.50 Caliber Armor Piercing
  3. 01:26Detonators and Fuses
  4. 03:11Museum Tour: Machine Guns and Mortars
  5. 04:11Landmine Collection
  6. 07:31M10 Landmine Mechanics
  7. 08:41Detection and Marking

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of WWII explosives are featured at Dragonman's Military Museum?

The museum showcases deactivated WWII explosives including M1 Military Dynamite, M7 and M7A1 landmines, and the M10 landmine. Historical crates for 'Gold Medal' explosives are also displayed, highlighting their original packaging and transport methods.

How powerful were the .50 caliber armor-piercing rounds discussed?

The .50 caliber armor-piercing rounds featured have a 660-grain weight and a black tip. They demonstrated significant power by penetrating a 1.5-inch thick steel plate, illustrating their effectiveness against armored targets.

What are the activation mechanisms for the landmines shown?

The M7 and M7A1 landmines utilize a tripwire mechanism. The M10 landmine is designed to be buried and activates via pressure or weight applied to its surface, triggering the firing pin.

Is the ordnance at Dragonman's Military Museum safe to handle?

Yes, Mel Bernstein emphasizes that all items displayed at his museum are deactivated and safe for public viewing. However, caution is advised when handling any historical ordnance, even if inert, due to its original purpose.

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