The KFM Meter: A Radiation Detector That Will Stand The Test Of Time

Abstract

The Kearny Fallout Meter (KFM) is a Cold War-era radiation detection instrument made from common household materials. This device was designed for citizens in the case of a nuclear conflict. This article examines the relevancy of the KFM by comparing it to two modern radiation detectors: an industrial digital radiation meter and an open-source DIY gamma detector. Despite the improved technology, the KFM is considered advantageous because of its cheap construction and ease of use. Conversely, it has two important shortcomings: the first is that some materials are not available for its construction due to modern manufacturing techniques, and second the operator must expose themselves to the high radiation field to observe the readings.