Polish Wz-23 versus Wz-33

[Fragman]

Hi. I recently picked up what I think is a Polish Wz-23 with a match head fuze (shown next to a Russian F1). I’m told it could also be a Wz-33. What is the difference between the Wz-23 and Wz-33? Thanks

 

[M8owner]

It is a Wz-33 defensive grenade.

http://www.bocn.co.uk/vbforum/threa...Hand-Grenade-with-WZ-31-Fuse?highlight=polish

 

[batonroundcollector]

I'm unsure which it is as they're definitely similar; it seems there is also a Wz-24 that is visually same - unsure if it is a separate model to the Wz-23 or the latter mislabelled... This article - https://www.wikiwand.com/pl/Granat_obronny_wz.33 - illustrates the differences between the Wz-24 (possibly Wz-23) and Wz-33 (via Google Translate):

The shell of the wz.33 grenade, unlike the shell of wz.24, had a threaded hole with a larger diameter, adapted for screwing in an aluminum sleeve (cover of the primer that stimulates the fuse). Its task was to tightly close the shell - protection against moisture and securing the explosive.

Threaded holes: a) for the fuse [shell wz.1924], b) for the cover of the primer [shell wz.1933]. (MPWP / PM)

 

[Fragman]

Awesome, thanks! This one has the large fuze well, so maybe the aluminium sleeve has been removed. It’s been teamed up with a match head fuze (same as used in a No16), which may have just been a fuze of convenient fit. Thanks again.

 

[no3nh4]

Hello,

I recommend reading this link (in Spanish)

http://armamentoguerracivil.com/granada-de-mano-polaca-wz-23-y-wz-24/

Greeting

 

[Fragman]

That is a great reference. Thanks!