Cryptic crossword clue
Weapons loaded with bullets to begin with and they’re blown up 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ARMBANDS

I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
A
R
M
B
A
N
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S

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "they’re blown up" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they’re blown up = armbands.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does ARMBANDS mean?

ARMBANDS noun
  1. A band worn around the arm, usually to symbolize protest or mourning.
  2. A band worn around the arm of the captain of a team.
  3. An inflatable band worn round the arms to keep afloat in water

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