This invention relates to a non-detonating cartridge containing an explosive composition, and more particularly but not exclusively to a non-detonating cartridge having enhanced safety characteristics. The cartridge includes a container including a cavity suitable for receiving a low explosive composition; an initiator, for in use initiating the explosive composition inside the cavity; and a shielding member which is displaceable relative to the container between a safe position, in which the initiator is shielded from the cavity such that initiation of the initiator does not result in initiation of the explosive composition, and a live position in which the initiator is exposed to the cavity to permit initiation of the explosive composition. The cartridge is characterised in that the shielding member is slideably displaceable relative to the container.