A small arms projectile for a small arms weapon is provided within a cartridge cover (1). A release element (15) is provided for preventing movement of the projectile=s initiator (11) into an armed position. The release element (15) is held in an engagement position by the cartridge cover (1). Also, a channel (5) is formed between the initiator (11) and the projectile=s explosive charge (8) and a slidable shielding means (6) is provided therein. An insert element (10) is also located in the channel for preventing movement of the shielding means (6) into its armed position. The insert element (10) is held in place by the cartridge cover(1). When the projectile exits the cartridge cover (1) and the weapon=s barrel following firing, the release element (15) is configured to move out of the engagement position to release the initiator (11), and the insert element (10) is configured to move out of the channel (5) to allow the shielding means (6) to move into its armed position.