Original German WWII Inert Experimental HHL Hafthohlladung “Sticky” Anti Tank Grenade by Vossloh-Werke – dated 1943 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The Hafthohlladung (Adhesive hollow charge) were a series of anti-tank grenades, sometimes considered an anti-tank mine, that was used by Germany during WWII. Sometimes called the Panzerknacker (Tank-Buster), all of these featured a cone shape, as they utilized the same type of shape charge design seen in the Panzerfaust series of anti-tank weapons. The basic idea was for a soldier to run up to a tank, stick the grenade on, arm it, and then run away. Like all deactivated ordnance, this grenade is Not Available for Export.

Most of the examples we have seen are larger, and were attached to the tank using strong magnets on the face of the grenade. This example however measures 8 3/8″ long with a base 2 3/4” in diameter, which is covered with a felt pad. This originally was saturated with a strong adhesive, which would hold the grenade onto the tank until it detonated.

The side of the shape charge cone of the grenade is stamped flf 43, indicating a manufacture date of 1943. The grenade was made by Vossloh-Werke GmbH in Westfalen, an explosives maker usually associated with “sticky bombs.” As such they were the perfect choice for making these experimental “sticky” anti-tank grenades, which unfortunately did not prove nearly as successful as their magnetic counterparts.
Condition is very good, with the tropical tan paint retained very well on the exterior. The grenade fuse assembly still can be removed from the body, and the interior shape charge cone can still be seen. The top of the fuse can also be unscrewed as well. The grenade appears to retain its original factory paint.

A very nice example of a rare anti-tank grenade, one of the first we have ever had! Ready for further research and display!