Zimmerit question?

[R. Murray]

I have a question regarding Zimmerit. According to what I've read it's use was discontinued in Sept. 1944 due to a false rumour that it could catch fire when struck ( even by a non-penetrating hit ) & cause the destruction of the tank. I've also read that it was discontinued due to the expense & effort required to apply it & also that magnetic AT grenades weren't used enough by the Allies to warrant it's continued use. My question is: Which of the above " holds the most water " ( so to speak )?
Thanks.

[Greg]

The actual panzer headquarters order to the tank assembly firms on 9 Sep 44 read, "Based on a decision by the Inspector General of Panzer Troops on 7 September 1944, for the purpose of simplification, the protective coating against magnetic shaped charges is no longer to be applied to armored vehicles."

So I'd say your reason #2 holds the most water.

Regards,
Greg

[cbo]

The actual panzer headquarters order to the tank assembly firms on 9 Sep 44 read, "Based on a decision by the Inspector General of Panzer Troops on 7 September 1944, for the purpose of simplification, the protective coating against magnetic shaped charges is no longer to be applied to armored vehicles."

So I'd say your reason #2 holds the most water.

Regards,
Greg

Maybe the General Inspector was not ready to say:

"The General Inspector has realized that spending time and money applying 100+ kilos of flammable paste to combat a non-existing enemy weapon was a bad idea. You are hereby to cease this meaningless and wastefull practice."

[Greg]

Maybe the General Inspector was not ready to say:

"The General Inspector has realized that spending time and money applying 100+ kilos of flammable paste to combat a non-existing enemy weapon was a bad idea. You are hereby to cease this meaningless and wastefull practice."

LOL Claus, you are undoubtedly right!

Greg