Molotov cocktail (petrol bomb)

Design and components

Basic elements are straightforward and have remained similar across decades: a glass or other brittle bottle, an ignitable liquid such as gasoline, alcohol or other fuel, and a fuse made from a rag or absorbent material. Sometimes additives are mixed to increase adherence or burning time, and in some designs the device is sealed in a way that fragments of the container spread burning liquid on impact.

• Container: easily breakable vessel.
• Filling: flammable liquid or mixture.
• Ignition: cloth wick or other slow-burning trigger.

History and name

Improvised incendiaries of this kind predate the 20th century, but the name "Molotov cocktail" emerged in the context of the Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union, when Finnish forces mockingly used the term in response to Soviet propaganda. The weapon saw notable use in several 20th-century conflicts and disturbances; similar devices were also employed during the Spanish Civil War and many later urban and guerrilla actions.

Uses, examples and legal status

Molotov cocktails have been used by irregular military groups, insurgents, rioters and arsonists because they are cheap and simple to produce. Use of such devices is illegal in most jurisdictions and can lead to severe criminal charges; their presence is also treated as evidence of intent to commit violent or destructive acts. For background on incendiary devices and their classification see incendiary devices overview and for historical context consult resources on irregular warfare at paramilitary tactics.

Risks, countermeasures and notable facts

Handling or manufacturing Molotov cocktails poses grave risk to the maker and bystanders: accidental ignition, burns and unintended spread of fire are common hazards. Modern security and military responses include armoring vehicles, using firefighting agents, and restricting access to fuels. Accounts of their use in civil disturbances and arson investigations can be found in studies of public disorder and crime prevention; see general summaries at civil unrest resources and legal perspectives at arson law. For a concise historical case study see materials on the Spanish Civil War and early 20th-century conflicts at Spanish Civil War sources.