Does putting a pin back in a grenade work?

Contrary to popular belief, the pin itself isn’t what arms a grenade. The pin’s sole purpose is to prevent accidental activation of the firing mechanism. Think of it as a safety catch, not the primary locking device.

The crucial component is the strike lever (or spoon, as it’s sometimes called). This is the part that holds the firing pin in place, preventing it from impacting the detonator. Reinserting the pin is technically feasible, provided the strike lever remains untouched and in its safety position.

Here’s a breakdown:

Pin Removal: Removing the pin disengages the safety, but the grenade is still inert.
Strike Lever Engagement: The strike lever is what keeps the grenade inactive. If it’s released, even slightly, the firing pin is free to move.
Pin Reinsertion: Putting the pin back *only* re-engages the safety. It does absolutely nothing to prevent detonation if the strike lever has been disturbed.
Detonation Sequence: The sequence is: strike lever release → firing pin movement → detonator impact → explosion. The pin plays no role after removal.

Important Note: Even if you successfully reinsert the pin, the grenade should be considered extremely dangerous. Improper handling can still result in detonation. Never attempt this unless you are a qualified explosives expert with the proper safety equipment and training in a controlled environment. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a guide for handling explosive devices.

What does it mean when a grenade is hissing?

A hissing sound emanating from a grenade usually indicates a functioning time delay fuse. This fuse burns down, producing a characteristic hiss as it approaches detonation. The hissing sound is a critical auditory cue, signaling the imminent explosion. However, it’s crucial to understand that this sound isn’t always easily discernible. The intensity of the hiss can vary depending on the specific grenade type and environmental conditions. Moreover, the sounds of combat – gunfire, explosions, and general battlefield chaos – can easily mask the hissing sound, making it difficult to detect.

The absence of a hiss doesn’t necessarily mean the grenade is inert. Some grenade types have different fuze mechanisms that don’t produce an audible hiss. Furthermore, damage to the fuse could also prevent the production of a hissing sound. Always treat any grenade as if it is live and ready to explode, regardless of whether or not you hear a hissing sound.

Different types of grenades may have different fuse durations and therefore different hissing durations. Knowing the specific type of grenade you’re dealing with can help in estimating the remaining time before detonation, though this is unreliable in practice due to potential variations in fuse burning rates. Prioritize immediate evacuation and seeking cover, treating the hissing as a critical alert rather than relying on its sound to determine the exact time to detonation.

Training and experience are paramount. Proper training on grenade identification, handling, and safety procedures is vital to understanding the potential variations in auditory cues and ensuring survival in a combat situation. Never handle a grenade without proper training. Remember, assuming a grenade is safe simply because you don’t hear a hiss can be fatal.

Are grenades legal in the US?

The legality of grenades in the US hinges entirely on the Federal Explosives Act. Simply put: no, grenades are not legally obtainable for civilian use.

The core issue is the manufacture, storage, distribution, receipt, and transportation of explosive materials. Under federal law, this requires a Federal Explosives License or Permit (FEL/FEP). These licenses are incredibly difficult to obtain and are almost exclusively granted to businesses and individuals with demonstrable legitimate needs – think demolition companies, mining operations, or certain military contractors.

Let’s break down why this makes grenades effectively illegal for the average person:

Manufacturing: Making a grenade, even a crude one, is illegal without the proper FEL/FEP. This includes all components, from the casing to the explosive filling.
Possession: Owning a grenade, regardless of origin, is almost certainly illegal without the aforementioned license. This applies to both functional and inert devices.
Transfer: Buying, selling, trading, or gifting a grenade is strictly prohibited without the proper licensing and paperwork.

Important Considerations:

ATF Jurisdiction: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is the primary agency enforcing these regulations. Penalties for violating federal explosives laws are severe, including substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences.
State Laws: While federal law sets the baseline, individual states may have additional restrictions on explosives. Always check your local and state regulations.
“Inert” Grenades: Even inert training grenades, lacking explosive filler, can still fall under the purview of these laws depending on their construction and how they are presented.

In short: Unless you’re a licensed professional with a legitimate need, attempting to acquire or possess a grenade is a serious federal crime.

What kills you when a grenade goes off?

Yo, what kills you in a grenade blast? It’s the freakin’ shrapnel, dude. Think of it like a really, really angry shotgun blast, but instead of pellets, it’s a cloud of razor-sharp steel fragments. That grenade casing? It completely disintegrates into a lethal swarm of tiny projectiles.

Ever notice how some grenades are all bumpy, like a pineapple? That’s no accident. That textured surface helps increase the shrapnel effect, creating even more of those deadly little pieces. It’s basically optimized for maximum carnage.

Here’s the breakdown of what makes it so deadly:

Velocity: These fragments move at incredibly high speeds. We’re talking potentially supersonic, ripping through flesh and bone.
Kinetic Energy: Because of that speed, they pack a serious punch. Even small fragments can inflict devastating injuries at close range.
Fragmentation: The number and size of fragments vary depending on the grenade type, but it’s always a significant amount, increasing the probability of getting hit.

Beyond the shrapnel, the blast wave itself is also dangerous, causing internal injuries. But honestly, the shrapnel is the primary killer. It’s brutal, it’s effective, and it’s why you always want to get the heck out of dodge when you see one coming.

Pro-tip: Different grenade types have varying shrapnel patterns. Some are more cone-shaped, while others are more spherical. Knowing this can help you understand how to best cover or take evasive maneuvers. But always remember – cover is your best friend.

Can you outrun a grenade?

The question of outrunning a grenade is a fascinating one, particularly from a strategic perspective. While the raw speed of a human versus a grenade’s fragmentation velocity is a losing proposition, the key is understanding the blast radius and shrapnel distribution. Simply outrunning the initial projectile is not enough.

The blast wave, crucial to understand, isn’t a simple sphere; it’s a cone, with the most lethal shrapnel concentrated above the point of detonation. This means a prone position offers significantly better survivability, minimizing exposure to the lethal upward trajectory of the fragments. The effective blast radius is also critical, and this varies wildly based on the grenade type and the terrain. Knowing the specific grenade used (pineapple, fragmentation, etc.) drastically alters the optimal escape vector and speed needed.

Therefore, a successful “outrun” strategy necessitates an immediate, rapid movement to cover, preferably low to the ground and angled away from the anticipated detonation point, incorporating knowledge of terrain and blast physics. Consider the environment – a building offers significantly more cover than open terrain. Improvised cover, even if minimal, is superior to no cover at all. Think of this not as a footrace, but as a complex tactical maneuver that weighs speed against minimizing the lethal zone’s impact.

Finally, attempting to throw the grenade back is statistically disastrous. The chances of successfully doing this in a high-pressure situation while simultaneously maintaining awareness of your surroundings are negligible and the risk of premature detonation exceptionally high. Prioritizing immediate self-preservation is always paramount.

Is the ATF banning smoke grenades?

ATF just pulled the rug out from under us. They’re revoking the exemptions for those consumer-grade flashbangs and smoke grenades. Think of it as a major game patch, except this one nerfs *everything* we’ve been using. No more cheesy tactics relying on those readily available smoke screens for quick getaways or disorienting enemies. It’s a significant change, impacting everyone from weekend warriors to serious collectors. Expect a surge in prices for the remaining legal options – if you can even find any – and be prepared for stricter background checks and limitations on purchasing.

Basically, the meta has shifted. You’re going to have to adapt your loadout and strategies. Stockpiling what you have left is your best bet, provided you legally acquired them beforehand. Forget about casual shopping for smoke; this is going to become a rare commodity, or require a whole new level of paperwork.

This isn’t just some minor tweak. This is a full-on system overhaul that demands we find new approaches. The old methods are obsolete. Prepare to innovate.

Why were grenades yellow in WWII?

Contrary to popular belief, WWII grenades weren’t uniformly yellow. The color varied depending on the type and nation of origin. A common misconception stems from limited exposure to certain types or propaganda imagery.

Common Misconception: The pervasive image of a bright yellow grenade is often inaccurate. While some grenades did incorporate yellow, it wasn’t the dominant color.

The Reality: Many Allied grenades, particularly British and American, featured a predominantly green body with a thinner yellow band or stripe near the top. This yellow band served as a crucial visual identifier.

High Explosive Identification: The yellow band was a clear indicator that the grenade contained high explosives. This was critical for immediate recognition on the battlefield.
Distinguishing from other types: This color-coding system helped differentiate high-explosive grenades from other types, such as smoke or fragmentation grenades, which often had different color schemes.

Important Note: The specific color schemes varied greatly between nations and even within different models from the same nation. Always refer to accurate historical documentation for precise details on individual grenade types.

Research Resources: For detailed information consult military manuals, technical drawings, and photographs from WWII.
Museum Exhibits: Many military museums house original WWII grenades, providing visual confirmation of their actual color schemes.
Online Archives: Numerous online archives contain detailed images and specifications of WWII ordnance.

In summary: The bright yellow color often associated with WWII grenades is a simplification. While yellow was used as an identifier for high explosives, it was typically a part of a larger color scheme, often on a green base, rather than the primary color of the entire grenade.

Can you bite the pin out of a grenade?

Negative. That’s a rookie mistake. Pulling the pin from a grenade is not a viable tactic, even in a highly-pressurized scenario. It’s a guaranteed kill, not a clutch play.

Here’s the breakdown:

Pin removal initiates the arming sequence. The pin doesn’t just *hold* the firing mechanism; its removal allows the internal spring-loaded mechanism to function. Think of it like disengaging a safety – except the ‘safe’ state is when the pin is *in*.
The spoon’s role. Once the pin is removed, the spoon is released. This spoon holds the firing pin back, preventing premature detonation. Removing the pin is like pulling the trigger on a time bomb.
The “cook-off” timer. The grenade has a time delay (the “cook-off” time). This isn’t an arbitrary number, it’s a precise delay before the explosive charge ignites. There’s no magic way to disarm a grenade that is already “cooking off”.

In short: You don’t bite, rip, or even *touch* the pin on a live grenade unless you’re actively trying to get yourself and everyone nearby killed. The chance of success is 0%, the chance of failure is 100%. Don’t even consider it. There are no second chances in this situation.

Advanced Tip: even if you somehow managed to remove the pin without triggering detonation (highly improbable), the grenade is still extremely dangerous. The shock of dropping it, striking it, or any other mishap could trigger detonation. Ejecting an armed grenade is a really bad strategy.

What is the lethal radius of a grenade?

The M67’s advertised lethal radius is misleading. Think of it like this: the game developers (the military) give you a suggested kill zone of 5 meters. That’s where you’re most likely to get a guaranteed kill. But that’s not the whole story.

The real danger zone extends much further. We’re talking a casualty radius of around 15 meters. That’s where you’ll still inflict serious injuries, even if it’s not an instant kill. Shrapnel can travel surprisingly far. Think of it as the “splash damage” radius in your favorite shooter. You might not get a one-hit kill, but you’ll definitely weaken your enemies.

5-meter radius (16 ft): High probability of a kill. Aim for this if you want a guaranteed kill. Think “critical hit” zone.
15-meter radius (49 ft): High probability of casualties (wounds, incapacitation). Consider this your “area of effect.” Expect some collateral damage.

Pro-tip #1: Terrain matters. Obstacles like walls and cover can significantly reduce the effective radius, especially against shrapnel. Use the environment to your advantage.

Pro-tip #2: Never underestimate the blast wave. Even outside the shrapnel radius, the blast can still knock you off your feet, creating an opening for your enemies to exploit.

Throwing Technique: Practice makes perfect. Accurate throws are crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of your grenade and minimizing self-inflicted damage.
Cover & Concealment: Always seek cover immediately after throwing. Don’t wait to see the result; it’s already too late. This is more crucial than accurate aiming if survival is your goal.

Bottom line: While the 5-meter radius is your optimal kill zone, the 15-meter radius is the actual danger zone. Treat this information like a boss fight strategy guide — knowing the enemy’s attack patterns will make you better prepared.

Has anyone jumped on a grenade and survived?

Whoa, incredible story! The question is, has anyone ever jumped on a grenade and survived? The answer is a resounding, albeit incredibly rare, yes.

There’s a documented case of a Marine, whose name I believe was Carpenter, who single-handedly saved a fellow Marine’s life. An enemy grenade landed nearby, and Carpenter, in an act of ultimate self-sacrifice, dove on it.

The blast, understandably, was massive. The sheer force involved is something to consider. Grenades typically use a fragmentation warhead, meaning they explode sending lethal metal shrapnel outwards at high velocity. Carpenter absorbed the brunt of that explosive force, saving his comrade.

What’s even more mind-blowing? He survived. Seriously, the odds were astronomically stacked against him. We’re talking about a situation where even with perfect placement, survival isn’t guaranteed. The injuries sustained would likely have been catastrophic for most.

His actions earned him the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. This is a testament to not just his bravery but also his incredible luck. The injuries sustained might have been incredibly severe, yet he pulled through.

The Mechanics of a Grenade Blast: The blast radius, the fragmentation pattern, and even the ground type all play a factor in survival chances. A grenade exploding in soft earth versus hard concrete would drastically alter the resulting shrapnel trajectory and impact.
The Human Factor: Beyond the physics, Carpenter’s positioning, the angle of the blast, and even sheer dumb luck, likely all contributed to his survival.
Medical Advancements: We also have to consider the advancements in trauma care. What might have been a fatal injury decades ago, might be survivable today, thanks to improved medical technologies and treatment protocols.

This is a testament to human resilience, an incredibly rare instance of survival against overwhelming odds. It’s a powerful story of heroism and sacrifice.

What happens if you get flashed by a flashbang?

Getting flashed by a flashbang grenade is a disorienting experience. The intense, brief flash of light – the namesake of the device – isn’t just momentarily blinding; it’s a neurological event. It’s designed to overwhelm your visual processing system, rendering you effectively helpless for a short period.

Immediate Effects:

Temporary Blindness: Expect complete or near-complete loss of vision for several seconds. This isn’t simply “darkness”; it’s an inability to process visual information. Think of it as a forced visual reboot.
Disorientation: The sudden, intense light triggers a cascade of neurological responses, leading to spatial disorientation. You might struggle to locate objects, assess distances, or even maintain your balance.
Nausea and Headache: Some individuals experience nausea and headaches following exposure. These symptoms are generally short-lived, but can be debilitating during a critical moment.
Ringing in the Ears: Though less common than blindness, the concussive effect of the bang can result in temporary tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

Longer-Term Effects (Rare):

While usually temporary, in rare instances, prolonged exposure or particularly intense flashes can lead to more significant issues, such as temporary vision impairment lasting longer than a few minutes. Always seek medical attention if you experience persistent symptoms.

Mitigation Strategies (For Training Purposes):

Protective Eyewear: High-quality ballistic eyewear offers significant protection against flashbangs. Note that specialized eyewear designed for flashbangs is recommended for the most effective protection.
Proper Training: Familiarization with the effects of flashbangs through controlled training exercises can help mitigate the impact. Practicing techniques to maintain situational awareness and recover from flashbang exposure is crucial.
Teamwork: In tactical scenarios, teammates can provide cover and support to individuals affected by a flashbang, reducing vulnerability during the recovery period.

Important Note: Improper use of flashbang grenades can lead to serious injury. Always adhere to safety regulations and only use them under appropriate supervision and training conditions.

Why is it called a pineapple grenade?

The nickname “pineapple grenade” is a direct result of the weapon’s physical design. The distinctive, segmented casing, with its numerous grooves and knobs, closely resembles the exterior of a pineapple. This visual similarity led to the adoption of the nickname, which quickly spread throughout military circles and beyond. The design itself wasn’t purely aesthetic; those grooves and knobs served a functional purpose: they enhanced the fragmentation effect upon detonation, creating a larger, more lethal blast radius compared to smoother alternatives. This increase in lethality, ironically linked to the seemingly innocuous fruit it resembles, makes the “pineapple” a memorable and strategically significant weapon in military history, and a notable element in various video games that faithfully recreate its distinctive appearance and devastating impact.

Why are brass knuckles illegal?

Brass knuckles’ illegality stems from their inherent danger. They’re effectively illegal almost everywhere, though the specifics vary. Some jurisdictions only prohibit metal knuckles, while others broaden the ban to include hardened plastic or other robust materials. This isn’t arbitrary; the design significantly amplifies the force of a punch, concentrating impact onto a small area. The result? A drastically increased risk of serious injury, ranging from broken bones to severe lacerations and even fatalities. Think of them as a real-world “power-up” – but unlike a video game, the consequences are brutally real and permanent. There’s no “respawn” in the face of a well-placed brass knuckle blow. The severe damage potential, along with the ease with which they can be concealed, makes them a particularly problematic weapon for law enforcement.

Interestingly, the legal history of brass knuckles is intertwined with their historical use. Originally tools for practical purposes like hammering or tightening, their evolution as weapons in street brawls and organized crime ultimately led to widespread prohibition. This historical context, coupled with their modern day abuse, underscores the need for continued regulation. The simple design, cheap materials, and devastating effectiveness make them a surprisingly persistent concern for public safety.

From a game design perspective, if you were to represent brass knuckles in a game, you’d need to carefully consider the realistic damage they inflict. A simple “damage multiplier” wouldn’t suffice; you’d need to incorporate mechanics reflecting the likelihood of critical hits and the potential for lasting, debilitating injuries. The game’s rating would undoubtedly be affected by such a weapon.

What is the fruit that explodes like a grenade?

The sandbox tree (Hura crepitans) is infamous for its explosive fruit. This isn’t a mere popping; it’s a violent ejection of seeds. Imagine a pumpkin-sized capsule, roughly 3-5 cm long and 5-8 cm in diameter, containing 16 carpels. When ripe, this capsule explodes with astonishing force, scattering its flattened, 2 cm diameter seeds at speeds up to 70 meters per second – that’s over 150 mph! This ballistic seed dispersal mechanism is a fascinating example of natural selection at work, maximizing seed distribution over a wide area.

The explosive power stems from the pressure build-up within the ripening fruit. As the fruit matures, the carpels become increasingly tense, finally releasing with a loud bang. This forceful ejection ensures that the seeds land far from the parent tree, minimizing competition for resources. Note that the explosive nature of the fruit presents a significant hazard. Avoid getting too close to a ripe sandbox tree; the projectiles are capable of causing serious injury. This isn’t just a botanical curiosity; it’s a potent reminder of the power and danger inherent in nature.

For educational purposes, consider demonstrating the explosive power (from a safe distance, of course!) or using slow-motion footage to highlight the mechanics of the seed dispersal. Contrast this method with other dispersal strategies like wind dispersal (dandelions) or animal dispersal (berries). This provides a rich opportunity to discuss evolutionary adaptations and the survival strategies of different plant species. The sandbox tree’s explosive fruit serves as a compelling example for illustrating both the wonders and potential dangers of the natural world.

Are flash bangs legal?

Flashbang Legality in the US: A Comprehensive Guide

Flashbangs, also known as stun grenades, are subject to strict regulations in the United States. Their sale and possession are heavily restricted outside of military and law enforcement contexts. This essentially means obtaining them legally as a civilian is exceptionally difficult, bordering on impossible.

Key Restrictions: The legal framework surrounding flashbangs varies by state, but generally involves stringent licensing and background checks far exceeding those for firearms. Many states outright prohibit their civilian ownership. Even in cases where some limited exceptions might exist (e.g., specific uses in theatrical productions under very strict permits), acquiring the necessary approvals is an extremely arduous process.

Understanding the Risks: Attempting to obtain flashbangs illegally carries significant legal penalties, including hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences. Furthermore, improper use can lead to severe injury, including permanent hearing loss and eye damage. The devices are designed for tactical use by trained professionals, and their uncontrolled deployment poses substantial safety risks.

Alternatives for Training and Simulation: For training purposes, there are safer and readily available alternatives such as simulated flashbang effects utilizing less harmful light and sound sources. These offer a suitable substitute for training without the inherent dangers and illegality associated with actual flashbang grenades. Consult with training professionals to identify compliant options appropriate for your needs.

Always prioritize safety and legality. Do not attempt to acquire or utilize flashbangs without the proper authorization and training.

Does getting hit by a grenade hurt?

Getting hit by a grenade? Let’s just say it’s a game over scenario, and not the kind where you can respawn. The explosion itself delivers a brutal, multi-faceted attack. We’re not talking about a simple health point deduction; this is a full system crash. The blast wave causes significant blunt force trauma, potentially leading to internal organ damage – think crushed ribs, ruptured lungs, and severe concussions. This is the equivalent of a massive AOE attack with devastating splash damage. But that’s just the beginning.

The fragmentation is where things get truly nasty. Hand grenades aren’t designed for pinpoint accuracy; they’re area denial weapons. Upon detonation, they unleash a storm of shrapnel – think high-velocity projectiles acting like a hail of extremely lethal bullets. This translates to penetrating trauma, causing lacerations, perforations, and widespread tissue damage. The impact isn’t just about the initial penetration; the shrapnel fragments can also cause secondary injuries as they ricochet, leading to a complex injury pattern.

The severity depends heavily on factors such as proximity to the detonation, the type of grenade, and the presence of cover. Think of it like a high-risk, high-reward situation in a game – the closer you are to the explosion, the higher the chance of a critical hit resulting in instant death. Even if you survive the initial blast, the long-term consequences could be catastrophic, ranging from permanent disabilities to long-term health complications. Essentially, there’s no “healing” from this kind of damage; it’s a permanent debuff.

How close can you survive a grenade?

Grenade proximity? Let’s talk survivability. In a confined space, even the minimum safe distance is a lie. Forget about that “blast radius” – shrapnel’s a brutal equalizer. You’re looking at a tiny window of opportunity: two to four seconds to escape. That’s it. No heroic last stands, just pure, frantic evasion. Your best bet? Run like hell. If there’s a window, *smash it* and get the hell out. Think of it like this: your survival hinges on speed and spatial awareness. Mastering map navigation and knowing your escape routes are essential skills to avoid a gruesome end. Knowing grenade types helps too. Frag grenades have a larger blast radius and throw more shrapnel than smoke grenades, for example. Practice your reaction time; even a split-second hesitation can be fatal. Ultimately, the distance isn’t the key, it’s getting out ASAP.

Why do soldiers tape grenades?

Taping grenades, specifically the spoon to the body, is a controversial practice with significant risk. While the intended purpose is to prevent accidental detonation should the pin be inadvertently pulled – the spoon would remain attached, delaying arming – it’s far from foolproof and introduces several serious drawbacks.

Why it’s risky:

Tape failure: The tape can degrade, loosen, or fail under stress, rendering the measure ineffective.
Delayed detonation: Even if the tape holds, the delay is minimal. Any impact or movement could dislodge the spoon before the user realizes the pin is out.
Misunderstanding of safety procedures: Relying on tape instead of proper handling and safety procedures is a dangerous shortcut. Improper storage and handling remain the biggest risks.
Compromised functionality: The tape can interfere with the grenade’s function, potentially causing malfunctions like a dud or misdirection of the blast.

Better Practices:

Proper training and handling: Strict adherence to established safety procedures and thorough training are paramount.
Secure storage: Always store grenades in designated, secure containers to minimize accidental access and handling.
Regular inspection: Inspect all equipment regularly to ensure proper function and no degradation of materials.

In short: Taping a grenade spoon is a last-resort, highly unreliable measure. It’s far better to prioritize proper training, handling, and storage. It’s crucial to emphasize that this practice does not eliminate the risk of accidental detonation and should never replace standard safety protocols.

Does laying on a grenade actually help?

Let’s be clear: no, laying on a grenade isn’t a guaranteed survival tactic. It’s a desperate, last-resort maneuver with highly variable outcomes depending on grenade type, proximity, and terrain. Think of it as drastically reducing the blast radius’s lethal effects, not eliminating them entirely.

The effectiveness hinges on several factors:

Grenade Type: Fragmentation grenades are the biggest concern. Their shrapnel is the primary killer. Smoke or flashbangs are significantly less dangerous, though still capable of causing injury.
Body Position: Covering the grenade with your body creates a significant barrier, but your position relative to the blast is critical. A direct hit, even partially shielded, is likely lethal.
Terrain: Hard ground will reflect shrapnel, potentially increasing injury. Soft ground absorbs some of the blast, but still won’t fully protect you.
Helmet Use: Using a helmet to cover the grenade improves your chances significantly over no cover, but it isn’t a foolproof method. The impact of a proximity fuse is still lethal. The detonation still has potential for lethal concussion injuries.

The “soldier saving soldier” stories you hear are testament to the act’s potential, not its reliability. It significantly reduces shrapnel dispersion, potentially converting a fatal blast radius into one inflicting only serious injuries, therefore significantly increasing the odds of survival for the others. It’s a calculated risk with a tragically low chance of success for the person taking the hit, but it can save many lives.

Consider this: The act itself can still result in severe internal injuries and blast trauma, even with a lessened blast radius. Death is still highly probable.