Flammenwerfer

weapon

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "Flammenwerfer" refers to a military assault weapon that projects a stream of blazing oil or thickened gasoline. These devices typically consist of fuel tanks, a compressed gas cylinder for propulsion, a hose, and a trigger-nozzle with an ignition source.

Modern flame throwers emerged in the early 1900s with German prototypes. The smaller, portable versions had a range of about 45 yards, while larger, tank-mounted units could reach over 100 yards. Used in conflicts like World War II, they were effective against fortified positions and enemy troops, particularly those using defensive tactics. Some later models utilized napalm, a thickened gasoline that burned intensely and adhered to surfaces, increasing their destructive capability.

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flame thrower
The smaller Flammenwerfer, light enough to be carried by one man, used gas pressure to send forth a stream of flaming oil for a distance of about 20 yards (18 metres). The larger model, based on the same principle, was cumbersome to transport but had a range…
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The smaller Flammenwerfer, light enough to be carried by one man, used gas pressure to send forth a stream of flaming oil for a distance of about 20 yards (18 metres). The larger model, based on the same principle, was cumbersome to transport but had a range…
Read More