An accelerometer adaptor, for near field shock wave measurements, is described for applications in which the mounting structure undergoes elasto-plastic deformation. It is of simple construction, light, easy to install and remains attached on the mounting surface during relatively large deformations. The design overcomes the possibility of the accelerometer being projected from the mounting plate, which results from mounting directly on a plate surface. It was successfully employed for measuring peak accelerations up to 100 000g. ©1997 American Institute of Physics.