Ratner Grade 1 Fire Resisting Quality Scene and Date unknown
This
is an example of a reasonably well executed but failed attempt to
blow open a book safe. The charge has removed most of the keylock,
the remains of which can be seen still attached
to the back of the door plate.
With
a slightly lesser charge the fire-resisting chamber housing the
boltwork would have remained
fixed to the door and the bolts withdrawn using the external handle.
However
the force of the explosion has caused the four front edge retaining
screws to shear with the result that the chamber became lodged within
the door opening at its leading edge
and any attempt to pull on the door would only cause it to jam more
tightly.
This
is a result of the door geometry, which being hinged on an external
pivot, requires that
internal components have to swing in a slight arc to the left before
passing clear.
The
reddish powder is sawdust and alum packing from the ruptured fire-resisting
chamber.
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