ABC-M7A2 and the ABC-M7A3 Riot Control Hand Grenade

Used to dispense CS gas for riot control.

Body is sheet metal with four emission holes on the top and one on the bottom.

Grey in color with a single red band.

Weight: 15.5 ounces.

Fuze Delay: 1.2 to 2 seconds

Average soldier can throw it 40 meters.

Releases a cloud of CS gas (Tear gas) for 15 to 35 seconds.

Produces burning sensation in the eyes, with tearing and photophobia. Respiratory symptoms include burning, pain and a sensation of suffocation. Skin symptoms may include a burning sensation, particularly in moist areas.

Most casualties require no medical care and the symptoms resolve spontaneously in 30-60 minutes.

First Aid:

  • Move the victim into fresh air, facing them into the wind. 

  • Change clothing

  • If symptoms persist, rinse eyes and mouth with water, use soap and water on the skin.

  • Reassure the victim

  • In the event of massive exposure, the skin may blister (treat it like a burn) and the lungs may be damaged (requiring intensive care, such as ventilatory support, steroids, and antibiotics).

For further information on the medical treatment of these injuries, read:

Medical Management of Chemical Agent Casualties: Chapter 8, Riot Control Agents

More Information on Hand Grenades

More Information on Operational Safety

From Operational Medicine 2001: Health Care in Military Settings
CAPT Michael John Hughey, MC, USNR
NAVMED P-5139
  January 1, 2001

Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C, 20372-5300
United States Special Operations Command, 7701 Tampa Point Blvd., MacDill AFB, Florida, 33621-5323

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