M24 mine

The M24 mine, also known as the Schuhmine 42 (literally "shoe mine 42" in German), was a German anti-personnel mine developed during World War II. It was designed to maim rather than kill, primarily targeting the feet and lower legs of enemy soldiers. The mine was constructed of treated cardboard, making it difficult to detect with early metal detectors. The body of the mine was filled with approximately 200 grams of a TNT-based explosive. It was a pressure-activated mine, typically buried just below the surface of the ground. The Schuhmine 42 proved to be a cheap and effective weapon, widely deployed on the Eastern Front and in other theaters of the war. Its use resulted in numerous casualties and had a significant psychological impact on Allied forces. Post-war, extensive mine clearing operations were undertaken to remove the M24 and other landmines from affected areas. Despite these efforts, some mines remain in the ground to this day, posing a continuing threat.