CHAPTER VIII._Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition.

MISCELLANEOUS OPERATIONS.

GETTING IN GUNS ON COVERED DECKS.

504. After bracing the yard over the port through which it is intended

to take the guns, secure the lizard round the yard five or six feet

outside of the ship, and hook the top burtons just outside of the

lizard.

Haul taut, and bring an equal strain on the burtons and lifts. Hook a

rolling-tackle on the opposite side of the yard, bowse it well taut,

and the trusses also, if they be of rope. Pass the end of the pendant

of the gun-purchase through the thimble of the lizard; take the end up

and make it fast round the top-mast, just above the lower cap. Have

the port lined with pine boards, to keep it from being chafed.

Bore a hole in the deck or decks through which it is intended to pass

the garnet, as nearly as possible over the rear end of the

gun-carriage, and as near in line with the centre of the port into

which the guns are to come as the beams will allow. Pass the upper end

of the garnet through the hole, and turn in the thimble, to which hook

the pendant-tackle. Place a tackle across the deck ready for bowsing

the gun into its carriage through the port.

Bring the gun under the yard and sling it as follows: place one bight

of the slings under the neck of the cascabel, and pass the lashing

which is attached to the slings round the chase, at such a distance

from the trunnions as will allow them to go into the trunnion-holes

without bringing too great a pressure of the slings against the upper

port-sill. Then toggle or hook the gun-purchase to the outer bight of

the slings, and sway away. When the breech of the gun is above the

port-sill, hook the garnet and the thwart-ship-tackle to the cascabel,

and bowse on both. When the slings bear hard on the upper port-sill,

lower the gun-purchase, and bowse on the garnet until the breech is

high enough for the trunnions to clear the cap-square bolts in the

carriage; then bowse on the thwart-ship-tackle until the trunnions are

over the trunnion-holes, lowering the purchase as required to bring

the gun into its place.

As each gun is mounted unhook the purchase and garnet, take off the

slings, run the carriage to its proper port, and place another for the

next gun.

TAKING IN GUNS OVER ALL.

505. Sling the gun slightly breech-heavy, to render it more

manageable. If it is to be mounted on the spar-deck, place the

carriage in the gangway; if on the main-deck, close to the main

hatchway on that deck. In place of the garnet, hook the stay-purchase

for lowering the gun into its carriage.

GETTING OUT GUNS THROUGH PORTS.

506. Secure the yard as in getting in guns, and sling the gun in the

same manner. Hook the garnet and haul it taut, so as to raise the

breech of the gun as much as the port-sill will permit; hook or toggle

the gun-purchase, and sway away. As soon as the trunnions are clear of

the carriage haul it from under the gun, ease away the garnet, and let

the gun go out the port. As soon as the gun is perpendicular to the

purchase, unhook the garnet and lower the gun into the lighter, or on

the wharf, as the case may be.

If the gun is to be taken out over all, the stay-tackle is to be

substituted for the garnet, only it is to be hooked to the same end of

the slings as the gun-purchase, and the lashing on the slings is to be

passed around the chase of the gun, as near the trunnions as possible,

without being in the way of the brackets.

MANNER OF USING THE GRIOLET PURCHASE FOR DISMOUNTING OR MOUNTING GUNS

ON COVERED DECKS.

507. In practice, guns are rarely shifted from one carriage to another

during action: it is only during a cessation of firing. While the

action is going on, the crew of a disabled gun are more usefully

employed in replacing the killed and wounded. Furthermore, spare

carriages are not so numerous as to permit this operation to be

performed frequently. Nevertheless, each gun's crew should be

thoroughly exercised, in order to develop their strength and skill.

508. The gun is to be run in, in the direction required to bring the

muzzle under the housing-bolt, and the breech under the hole bored in

the deck to receive the screw-bolt of the upper block of the

breech-purchase. This hole should be bored through the plank in the

deck, as nearly abreast the middle of the port as the beams will

allow, giving the block room to play clear of the beams and carlings.

With a gun's crew of twelve men the operation may be performed as

follows:

At the word "Stand by to dismount!" the Quarter-Gunner of the division

on the deck above that in which the gun is to be dismounted removes

the screw-tap, and stands ready to place the washer, key and un-key

the bolt of the breech-purchase block.

All the numbers, except 1, 2, 3, and 4, man the train-tackle.

No. 1 gives the word "Run in!"

While the gun is coming in, Nos. 1 and 2 remove breeching from jaws of

cascabel, and 7 and 8 remove it from side-shackle. Nos. 1 and 2 throw

its bight over the reinforce. No. 1 removes sight-bar and screws up

the thumb-screw firmly.

When the gun is in position--Nos. 1 and 2 adjust upper and lower block

of breech-purchase and secure the latter with the cascabel-pin. Nos. 3

and 4 chock fore-trucks, provide muzzle-purchase, and, assisted if

necessary by 5 and 6, adjust its upper block. Nos. 5 and 6 unshackle

breeching from ship's side, and shove toggle-block of muzzle-purchase

into the bore and back it to the breech-purchase.

Nos. 7 and 8 un-key and throw back cap-squares and choke luffs of

side-tackles, or, if rolling deeply, hitch them round the straps of

the blocks.

Nos. 9 and 10 provide breech-purchase and assist 1 and 2 in adjusting

it.

No. 11 chokes luff of train-tackle, or hitches it, if required;

provides and hooks tackle of muzzle-purchase; belays and lowers.

No. 12 provides and hooks tackle of breech-purchase; belays and

lowers.

These preparations made, all the numbers man the breech-tackle fall,

or divide themselves to bowse upon both falls together, as the

position of the gun in the battery may render either mode most

convenient.

At the word "Dismount!" the gun is swayed out of the carriage.

Nos. 3 and 4 attend chocking-quoins, and 11 attends train-tackle, if

required.

All the numbers, excepting 11 and 12, who attend purchase-falls, move

up to their ordinary stations for serving the gun, unhook

side-tackles, and remove the old carriage, under the direction of No.

1: and--

At the word "Mount!" the same men bring the new carriage into position

for mounting.

At the word "Lower!" Nos. 11 and 12 lower the gun into its place; all

the numbers then proceed, respectively, to reverse what they had done

in dismounting.

Guns on covered decks may also be dismounted by means of a

muzzle-lashing, the runner and the train-tackles, assisted by the

handspikes.

The gun is run in and laid square under the housing-bolt, the bed and

quoin removed, the muzzle elevated and secured as in the housing

position; then, after un-keying and throwing back the cap-squares, the

breech is bowsed up clear of the carriage by means of the

train-tackle, hooked in the eye of a runner, the block of which hooks

in an eye-bolt in the beam over the gun. If preferred, this mode of

dismounting may be adopted by substituting the muzzle-lashing for the

toggle-block of the griolet, and toggling the runner-block in the hole

made in the deck for the breech-purchase of the griolet.

THROWING GUNS OVERBOARD.

509. The gun's crew being assembled at Quarters, remove the pin and

chock from the cascabel, into the jaws of which place a selvagee

strap; hook the double block of the train-tackle into the housing-bolt

over the port, and its single block into the selvagee strap; remove

the cap-squares, and place a round block of wood on the sill of the

port, high enough to let the chase bear on it when slightly depressed;

raise the breech as much as possible, without lifting the gun out of

the carriage. When all is ready man the train-tackle well; have the

handspikemen also ready to assist in raising the breech; and if the

vessel is not rolling, it will be well to have additional handspikes

under the rear of the carriage to lift it also, so as to give free

egress to the gun. When all is ready, give the order: "All

together--launch!" In a gale of wind advantage should be taken of a

favorable roll to give the word, that the action of the sea and of the

men at the guns may be simultaneous.

If the guns are to be thrown overboard for the purpose of lightening a

ship which is aground, they must be buoyed, and care is to be taken

that each buoy-rope is of a proper length and strong enough to weigh

the gun. The best mode of securing the buoy-rope to the gun is to form

a clinch or splice an eye in the end which goes over the cascabel, and

take a half-hitch with the bight around the chase of the gun, and stop

it with spun-yarn.

The buoy must be sufficient to float the rope when saturated; or, in

deep water, a smaller line may be used for the buoy, and attached to

the rope intended for weighing the gun, that it may be hauled up when

wanted.

PART II.

EQUIPMENT AND MANOEUVRE

BOATS.

EQUIPMENT AND MANOEUVRE

BOATS.

EQUIPMENT OF BOATS.

WHEN DIRECTED TO BE MANNED AND ARMED FOR SERVICE.

1. Boats must be provided according to the time of absence and nature

of the service they are to perform, keeping in view the details

prescribed in Table (Article 5).

The number and class of Boat-Howitzers are assigned by the Bureau of

Ordnance.

2. When boats manned and armed are ordered, the Officers detailed to

command them will see that they are thus furnished, and report when

the boats are ready. They will also see that all articles are safely

returned, or duly accounted for, when the boats return to the vessel.

If the boats are directed to assemble alongside of any particular

vessel, the officers must report as they arrive there. If signalled

alongside of the ship of the Commander of the Squadron for exercise or

for inspection, they are to be inspected, if he shall so direct, by an

Officer appointed by him, whose duty it shall be to report those which

may be particularly well prepared, and those which he may find

deficient in equipment or arrangement, specifying particulars.

3. Whenever the Howitzers are to be used in boats they must be fitted

for the purpose as directed in "EXERCISE AND MANOEUVRE OF

BOAT-HOWITZERS;" their crews being armed with swords and revolvers.

4. Boarding-parties are to be supplied with swords, revolvers, and

rifles loading at the breech, with filled cartridge-boxes.

EQUIPMENT OF BOATS ARMED FOR SERVICE.

5.--TABLE OF BOAT EQUIPMENTS, ARMS, AND STORES FOR EXPEDITIONS

KEY:

A: LINE SHIPS AND 1ST CLASS SCREW FRIGATES.

B: ALL OTHER FRIGATES.

C: RAZEED FRIGATES AND 1ST CLASS SCREW SLOOPS.

D: ALL OTHER SLOOPS AND BRIGS.

E: LAUNCHES

F: 1st and 2nd CUTTERS.

G: 3rd and 4th CUTTERS.

H: 1st CUTTERS.

I: 2nd and 3rd CUTTERS.

J: 3rd CUTTERS.

------------------------------------------+-----------+-----------------+

| | A | B |

DEPARTMENTS.| NAMES OF +-----------+-----------------+

| ARTICLES. | E | F | G | E | F | G |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

|Boat-Carriage, complete |1ea|1ea|-- |1ea|1 to 1st |-- |

|Field-Carriage, complete |-- |1ea|-- |1ea| -- |-- |

| Ammunition-Chests |Either one or all, as the |

| (various in size | nature of the service may |

| & contents) | require. |

| | |

| Ammunition-Pouches |One for each man of the |

| | field-howitzer's crew, |

| | except Nos. 1 & 3. |

| | |

|Match-Rope (lengths)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Primers (tin-boxes)|2ea|2ea|-- |2ea|2 to 1st |-- |

|Spare Lock, complete |1ea|1ea|-- |1ea| 1 ea. |-- |

| of Howitzer |One for each field gun. |

|Swords |One for each man in the boat.|

| | |

|Breech-Loading Arms |One for each man of the |

| |boat's crew. |

| | |

|Minie-Rifles |When extra men in the boat, |

| |one for each. |

| | |

|Revolvers |One for each man of the |

| |boat's crew. |

| | |

|Cartridge-boxes, filled |One for each rifle, |

| |breech-loading gun, and |

| |revolver. |

| | |

| Magazine. |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Boat Arm-Chest |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

|Masts and Spars (set)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

| Spare Oars (set)|1ea|-- |-- |1ea| -- |-- |

|Set of Oars |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

| Thwart (set)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Boat-Hooks |3ea|3ea|3ea|3ea| 3 ea. |3ea|

| damages (set fixed)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Bucket |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Tarpaulin |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

SAILMAKER'S.|Sails (set)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Awning |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Tent-Awning (see drawing)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

| oars (sets)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Hand-Grapnels |2ea|2ea|1ea|2ea| 2 ea. |1ea|

|Anchors |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

| Anchor (15 f'ms long)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Marlinspike |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Spun-Yarn (balls of)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Grease (lbs.)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Fishing-Lines and Hooks |Three lines for the larger |

| |boats and two for the |

| |smaller, with 1 dozen |

| |assorted hooks per boat. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

MASTER'S. |Boat-Compasses |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Lead and Line |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Signals (sets)|One for the senior officer of|

| | the boats belonging to each |

| | ship. |

| | |

|Spy-Glasses |One for the senior officer of|

| | the boats belonging to each |

| | ship. |

| | |

|Ensign |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Lantern |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

|Candles (lbs.)|1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

| and Steel |1ea|1ea|1ea|1ea| 1 ea. |1ea|

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

| for cooking (set)|1ea|-- |-- |1ea| -- |-- |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

MASTER'S. |Fuel (quantity)|As may be judged necessary. |

|Breakers of Water (number)|To be regulated, like the |

| |fuel, according to the |

| |nature of the expedition and |

| |ballast required. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

PAYMASTER'S.|Provisions |To be regulated, like the |

| |fuel, according to the |

| |nature of the expedition and |

| |ballast required. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

SURGEON'S. |Articles for treatment of |To be regulated, like the |

| sick and wounded |fuel, according to the |

| |nature of the expedition and |

| |ballast required. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+---+---+---------+---+

[Part 2]

------------------------------------------+------------------+-----------+

| | C | D |

DEPARTMENTS.| NAMES OF +------------------+-----------+

| ARTICLES. | E | H | I | E | F | J |

------------+-----------------------------+----+----+--------+---+---+---+

|Boat-Carriage, complete | 1 | 1 | -- | 1 |-- |-- |

|Field-Carriage, complete | 1 | -- | -- | 1 | | |

|Match-Rope (lengths)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Primers (tin-boxes)| 2 | 2 | -- | 2 | | |

|Spare Lock, complete | 1 | 1 | -- | 1 | | |

| Magazine. | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Boat Arm-Chest | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

|Masts and Spars (set)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

| Spare Oars (set)| 1 |-- | -- | 1 |-- |-- |

|Set of Oars | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

| Thwart (set)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Boat-Hooks | 3 | 3 | 3ea | 3 |3ea| 3 |

| damages (set fixed)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Bucket | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Tarpaulin | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

SAILMAKER'S.|Sails (set)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Awning | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Tent-Awning (see drawing)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

| oars (sets)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Hand-Grapnels | 2 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Anchors | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

| Anchor (15 f'ms long)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Marlinspike | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Spun-Yarn (balls of)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Grease (lbs.)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Fishing-Lines and Hooks |Three lines for the larger |

| |boats and two for the |

| |smaller, with 1 dozen |

| |assorted hooks per boat. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

MASTER'S. |Boat-Compasses | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Lead and Line | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Ensign | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Lantern | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

|Candles (lbs.)| 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

| and Steel | 1 | 1 | 1ea | 1 |1ea| 1 |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

| for cooking (set)|1ea|-- | -- |1ea|-- |-- |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

MASTER'S. |Fuel (quantity)|As may be judged necessary. |

|Breakers of Water (number)|To be regulated, like the |

| |fuel, according to the |

| |nature of the expedition and |

| |ballast required. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

PAYMASTER'S.|Provisions |To be regulated, like the |

| | fuel, according to the |

| |nature of the expedition and |

| | ballast required. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

SURGEON'S. |Articles for treatment of |To be regulated, like the |

| sick and wounded | fuel, according to the |

| | nature of the expedition and |

| | ballast required. |

------------+-----------------------------+---+---+----------+---+---+---+

DETAILS OF THE FOREGOING TABLE.

FIXTURES IN BOATS FOR BOAT-GUNS.

6. Two eye-bolts on each bow, to receive the hooks of the skid; two

cross-pieces, of yellow pine, to bear the carriage, so as to carry the

muzzle of the howitzer just above and clear of the gunwale and stem.

One piece of yellow pine scantling, placed lengthwise and amidship,

mortised into the rear cross-piece to sustain the carriage in

sweeping.

MOVABLE PIECES.

7. Six pivot plates and bolts--one at the stem, one at the stern, one

at each bow, and one on each quarter; two light wooden tracks to lay

along the thwarts for the wheels of field-carriages and the slide of

boat-carriage; one midship wheel-track for the trail of

field-carriage; two stout skids, each fitted at one end with two

hooks, and connected at the shore end by an iron brace.

The chocks with rollers at the stem and stern posts of launches, are

arranged to be removed when the gun is used.

8. _Implements for Shifting the Howitzer from Boat to Field-Carriage._

One muzzle-block.

One selvagee strap.

One shifting-spar.

One short iron or wooden bolt, to keep the piece on the right slue.

9. _Implements, complete, for Serving and Working the Howitzer._

Breeching for boat-gun, if deemed necessary.

Lock with lock-string.

Elevating screw.

Sight.

Priming-wire.

Boring-bit.

Vent-cloth.

Sponge and rammer.

" " spare.

Spring-spike.

Rat-tail file.

Haversack, with strap, for Captain of howitzer, to contain a

supply of primers, spare fuzes, spare lock, vent-bit, vent-cloth,

and implements for spiking; leather ammunition-pouches for each

of the men of the field-gun, except Nos. 1 and 3, to be supplied

by the Quarter Gunner, with one round of ammunition each, and two

primers, when the order to land is given.

Drag-rope, fitted with hooks and handles.

Trail handspike.

A rope, or chain, to lock the wheels in descending slopes.

Transporting-boxes.

10. AMMUNITION.

A chest containing shrapnel.

A chest containing shell.

A chest containing canister.

These chests are of two sizes; the single, holding nine, and double,

eighteen rounds.

A key is becketed to each box for unscrewing the lid.

Cutting-tool for opening the Bormann fuze, one in each box of shell

and shrapnel.

FOR SMALL ARMS.

11. Cartridge-boxes and belts, furnished with cartridges and

percussion-caps, screw-driver, cone-key, and wiper.

An empty powder-tank for magazine, to contain filled cartridge-boxes

and spare cartridges.

SMALL ARMS.

12. Breech-loaders, in loops or brackets, under the gunwale of the

boat, protected by a water-proof canvas covering, running round the

rising of the boat.

Rifles.

Revolvers.

Swords.

Boat arm-chest.

A good tarpaulin to cover ammunition.

13. PROVISIONS.

Pork. To be cooked if there be time.

Bread, in water-proof bag.

Cheese, or canned meats.

Fresh water, in breakers; always to be used for ballast when ballast

is required.

Fuel and kindling.

14. UTENSILS AND ARRANGEMENTS FOR COOKING.

Launch-stove and utensils.

Mess-kettle.

Tin pots and spoons.

Funnel.

Bucket.

15. TOOLS AND ARTICLES FOR REPAIRING DAMAGES.

Axe, One for each boat.

Hatchet, One for each boat.

Hammer, One for each boat.

Hand-saw, One for each boat.

Nails, 2 pds. for each launch; 1-1/2 pds. for each large cutter;

and 1 pd. for each of the rest.

Sheet-lead, 3 square feet for each launch; and 2 square feet for

each cutter.

Tacks (number), 100 for each launch; 75 for each large cutter;

and 50 for each of the rest.

Marlinspike.

Spun-yarn.

Grease.

16. MISCELLANEOUS ARTICLES.

Boat ensign.

Set of signals for boat of Senior Officer.

Boat-compass.

Spy-glass.

Lead and line.

Lantern.

Candles.

Tinder-box, with flint and steel.

Fishing-lines and hooks.

17. FOR TREATMENT OF SICK AND WOUNDED.

Tourniquets.

Bandages.

Lint.

Medicines.

Surgical instruments.

18. BOAT-GEAR.

Masts.

Spars.

Rigging.

A set of oars, fitted with trailing-lines long enough to allow them

to trail alongside in the water.

Three boat-hooks.

Spare oars, with trailing-lines, for one thwart.

Cranes on the gunwale to hold spars and spare oars, raised

sufficiently high above the gunwale (9 inches) to allow the oars

to be got out or trailed. The spars thus arranged form a

considerable protection against musketry.

Small thrum-mats for muffling oars when required.

Anchor.

Chain or rope.

Hand-grapnels, fitted with a fathom of light chain, and five

fathoms of line.

Sails.

Awning and stanchions.

Tent awning. (_See_ Drawing.)

N.B.--In order to avoid delay and confusion when boats are called away

for service, it is recommended that the articles required by the

foregoing lists should be kept separately in the store-rooms, in

convenient packages for stowage in the boats and protection against

the weather. The contents of each package must be marked on it,

together with the name of the boat for which it is intended.

Particular attention should be paid by the Executive Officer of the

vessel to the best and most compact stowage of all articles required

for boat expeditions, which will, necessarily, vary according to the

size of the boat and the nature of the service she is to perform. The

occasions will be very rare when all of these articles are required at

the same time.

FORM OF EXERCISE AND MANOEUVRE

FOR THE BOAT-HOWITZERS OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY.

NOMENCLATURE.

19. THE CASCABEL is the part of the gun in the rear of the base-ring;

and is composed of--

The breech-plate.

The knob.

The neck.

Base-ring.

Cylinder.

Chase.

Loop, with hole for bolt.

Lock-lugs.

Mass-sight.

Mass for breech-sight.

The BORE includes all the part bored out, viz.:

Cylinder of bore.

Chamber.

These guns must not be polished bright.

BOAT-CARRIAGE COMPLETE, consists of--

Bed.

Slide.

Compressor-plate.

Compressor-bolts.

Compressor-handles.

Lugs for loop.

FIELD-CARRIAGE COMPLETE, consists of--

Axle.

Trail.

Braces.

Supports for transporting boxes.

Lugs for loop.

Trail-wheel or runner.

Bolt for trail-wheel or runner.

Socket for handspike.

Elevator.

Disk of elevator.

Box for elevator.

[Illustration: HOWITZER AND BOAT CARRIAGE. D. Van Nostrand Publisher.

Julius Bien, pr.]

[Illustration: HOWITZER ON FIELD CARRIAGE. D. Van Nostrand Publisher.

Julius Bien, pr.]

EXERCISE OF THE BOAT-HOWITZER.

20. While preparations are in progress for clearing out the boats, the

Officer of each boat will see that the howitzer, and its various

equipments, are also in readiness. The Junior Officer or Officer of

the piece will attend to the gun itself and its carriages.

The Quarter Gunner will get up the ammunition from below; also the

lock, sights, sponges, spare fuzes, ammunition-pouches, and primers.

Spare article box.

This will be the proper time for examining the shrapnel and shells,

which must receive the particular attention of the Officer who is to

command the boat.

The Captain of the gun will look after the traverses, tracks, and

pivot-plates.

The Coxswain will have ready the thwarts, oars, masts and sails.

When the boat has been cleared for hoisting out, lay the thwarts and

traverses, and bolt the pivot-plates on the bows and quarters; if the

stem and stern pivot-plates interfere with the purchases, they can be

secured after the boat is in the water. If the field-carriage is to

accompany the gun, lay the wheel and trail tracks.

In a sea-way, it may be better to place the howitzer in the launch,

laying it athwartships, and bolting the two ends of the slide into the

bow pivot-plates, which will hold it perfectly firm.

As a general rule, the howitzer is not to be handled separately from

one of its carriages. It may be hoisted into the launch on either

field or boat carriage, as circumstances may dictate.

When the boat-carriage is preferred, sling it with a stout strap

passed through the loop-lugs and brought up round the gun, into which

hook the purchase; previously shove the bed a little towards the rear

end of the slide, so that the carriage will hang square, and set the

compressors tight.

When the boat has been hoisted out, the howitzer, its ammunition, and

equipments, should be stowed in it conformably to the requirements of

the occasion.

Ordinarily, the howitzer may be placed in the bow on its

boat-carriage, bolted to the stem-pivot; the field-carriage aft, with

its wheels resting on the floor of the stern-sheets and bearing

against the after thwart; the trail laid over the quarter-rail, so as

not to interfere with the steering; and the ammunition stowed in the

stern-sheets, or elsewhere, as may be most convenient for trim of

boat, or for its own preservation.

These arrangements can be subsequently changed as circumstances may

require.

The Captain of the howitzer slings his haversack and deposits in it a

supply of primers, a vent-bit, and vent-cloth, which are handed to him

by the Quarter Gunner.

The equipment of the boat will be much facilitated by assigning to

each man special duties of preparation and providing articles.

As the bow-oars cannot well be pulled when the howitzer is mounted in

the bow, Nos. 1 and 2 do not ordinarily assist at the oars.

[Illustration: FRIGATES LAUNCH D. Van Nostrand Publisher. Julius Bien,

pr.]

STATIONS.

21. For 20 men the stations in the boat and at the howitzer will be as

follows; if fewer are employed, the higher numbers are to be omitted:

BOAT. | HOWITZER.

_Stations._ | _Duty._

Quarter Master, Stern-Sheets. | Signals and assists with ammunition.

Quarter Gunner, Ammunition. | Ammunition.

Cockswain, Helm. |

Chief of Piece, Bow. | Superintends the firing.

_Port._ _Starboard._ |

1. ---- Bow-oar. | Captain of howitzer, points and fires the

If the lock and sight are on | gun, superintends orders, and gives

left side Captain will take | orders in absence of an Officer.

station on port side. |

2. Bow-oar. ---- | 2d Captain, tends vent and primes.

3. ---- 2d oar. | Sponger, sponges and pushes home charge.

4. 2d oar. ---- | Loader, receives and enters ammunition.

5. ---- 3d oar. | Tends forward compressor.

6. 3d oar. ---- | Tends after compressor.

7. ---- 4th oar. | Train rope.

8. 4th oar. ---- |

9. ---- 5th oar. |

10. 5th oar. ---- |

11. ---- 6th oar. |

12. 6th oar. ---- |

13. ---- 7th oar. |

14. 7th oar. ---- |

15. ---- 8th oar. |

16. 8th oar. ---- |

17. ---- 9th oar. | Runs field-carriage forward when landing.

18. 9th oar. ---- | Runs field-carriage forward when landing.

Officer of boat directs the whole of the operations, or may take

especial charge of the howitzer.

Officer of the gun is in command of the piece, unless otherwise

ordered by the Officer of the boat.

(Preliminary Order)--"MAN THE HOWITZER!"

22. The Captain of the gun sees that the elevator, sight and lock are

in order for firing.

Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. Trail oars.

No. 3 goes to starboard side of muzzle, having the sponge and rammer

ready.

No. 4 goes to port side of muzzle, takes out tompion.

No. 5 to starboard side, near forward compressor.

No. 6 port side, near after compressor.

No. 7 after-end of slide, and hooks training-rope.

No. 2 tends the vent and puts in primer.

If the gun is unloaded, it must be run in.

I. "SPONGE!"

23. No. 2 closes vent, (_a_)

No. 3 enters the sponge, and, pressing it firmly to the bottom of

bore, turns it round and withdraws it. (_b_)

Quarter Gunner takes a round from the ammunition-box, and, if shell or

shrapnel be used, holds it for the Officer in command of gun to adjust

the fuze.

II. "LOAD!"

24. Quarter Gunner passes forward with the fixed charge, protecting it

under his jacket, (_c_)

No. 4 receives the charge from Quarter Gunner and enters it.

No. 3 pushes home to the mark on rammer-handle, (_d_)

No. 2 puts in primer and covers it with his hand until Nos. 3 and 4

are clear of the gun. (_e_)

III. "POINT!"

25. Nos. 5 and 6 ease compressors. (_f_)

All six men and Captain of gun run out the howitzer, (_g_)

Nos. 5 and 6 then tighten compressors.

Officer of gun puts up the sight as directed by Officer of boat. (_h_)

Captain of gun brings the elevation within the limits of the boat's

motion, and causes No. 7, with the assistance of some others, to train

nearly to object if the boat is under way.

IV. "FIRE!"

26. If the boat has motion, or is under way, a discretionary execution

of this order is necessarily implied.

The assumed elevation having been given by the elevator, a slight

motion of the helm is made to sweep the piece laterally, so as to

cross the object.

The Captain of the gun closely watches this movement, with his eye

down on the sights, and holding the lock-lanyard firmly, draws it as

soon as the sights coincide with the object.

Immediately after firing he coils up the lanyard and pulls from the

vent any pieces of the quill that may remain, and also enters the bit

to clear it entirely through, (_i_)

NOTES TO THE FORM OF BOAT EXERCISE.

27. (a) The necessity for closing the vent is a mooted question; but

as the operation itself is a slight one, having no appreciable effect

in complicating or delaying the manoeuvre of the gun, it is not deemed

advisable to omit it in this "Form." An equally sure method, is merely

to lay a piece of untwilled woollen cloth over the vent, and press it

down with the hand; or else turn the lock on it, and hold that down.

(b) Too much care cannot be used in sponging, as a premature explosion

endangers life and limb. A moist sponge is to be preferred, for

contact with it must surely extinguish every trace of fire in the

bore.

It may be considered as a safeguard against accident, for during many

years' practice, in proving pieces and exercising the men to fire

rapidly--ordinarily, seven or eight times in a minute--not a single

instance of premature explosion has occurred.

from the fingers, rain, or spray of the sea; otherwise, there will be

a failure to ignite.

(d) The ammunition is never to be struck with the rammer-head, but

pushed home, and with very moderate force; particularly omitting a

very common practice of forcing the charge after it reaches the bottom

of the bore. In pushing home the charge, No. 2 should always keep his

body at the side of the chase, and not before the muzzle.

(e) It is not necessary to pierce the cartridge when

percussion-primers are used; their fire being always sufficient to

pass through it.

(f) It is only necessary to give the compressors a turn, or a part of

a turn; this will relieve the nip completely, and time is saved

subsequently in compressing.

(g) Some will take hold of the standard of the carriage-bed that

receives the loop of the piece, others of the breech or bed, as may be

convenient, to run out the gun.

(h) In tightening the thumb-screw that holds the breech-sight in

position, do not turn it too hard; the thread may be stripped by

continuing to do so. The sight may descend by the shock of the

discharge, but this is of no moment.

In point-blank firing, the breech-sight is not required; the eye must

then range along the cylinder and muzzle-sight.

(i) The charge may not be fired; if this arises from not properly

drawing the lock, it will be evident at sight, as the wafer of the

primer will not flash; in this case No. 2 throws back the lock.

If the primer explodes without acting on the charge, care must be

taken not to approach the piece too soon, as it may only hang fire,

and the recoil will injure any one in the way of it. After a

seasonable pause, the Captain of the howitzer will remove the residue

of the primer, pass the bit down the vent, and insert another primer.

PIVOTING THE HOWITZER.

28. The sweep allowed by the stem-pivot is about one point and a half,

starboard or port; if this is not sufficient to train the piece on the

object, without diverging too much from the course or position of the

boat, then the bow-pivots may be used.

The Officer of the boat gives the order--

"PIVOT ON THE PORT (OR STARBOARD) BOW!"

29. No. 7, with the assistance of the others, trains the rear end of

the slide into the bow-pivot which is not to be used. No. 2 bolts it

in. No. 3 draws bolt out of stem-pivot, and, with assistance, draws

round the forward end of the slide into the pivot to be used; drops in

the bolt. No. 2 withdraws the bolt from rear end of slide.

The sweep on the bow-pivots includes an arc of about 120 degrees.

It is not advisable to train the howitzer more than a point abaft the

beam if forward, or more than a point forward the beam if aft; as the

accidental explosion of a shell near the muzzle, and even of a

shrapnel, might be dangerous to those in the boat.

On the bow-pivot, the piece may be pointed nearly from the direction

of the keel to a little abaft the beam.

SHIFTING THE HOWITZER.

30. If the howitzer does not bear on the object with such assistance

as is admissible from the helm, then the Officer in command may direct

it to be shifted to the other end of the boat.

The light 12-pounders, with their boat-carriages, average 660 pounds

each; and can be transported by hand from one end of the boat to

another.

With their boat-carriages, the 12-pounders of 750 average 1,200 pounds

each; the 24-pounders about 2,000 pounds, and will probably be more

conveniently managed, especially if the boat has motion, by placing

rollers 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 inches in diameter on the tracks laid for the

field-carriage. On these the boat-carriage can be shifted from one end

of the boat to the other, using light falls to keep it under command.

DISEMBARKATION OF THE HOWITZER.

I. "PREPARE TO LAND!"

31. The Quarter Gunner fills the pouches with one round each, and

passes them to the men, each of whom, except Nos. 1 and 3, slings a

pouch over the right shoulder, and buckles the strap as short as

possible, so as to keep the ammunition clear of the water when leaving

the boat.

The Captain of the gun also shortens the strap of his haversack.

"TRAIL BOW AND STROKE OARS!"

32. Nos. 1 and 2 adjust the bed of the boat-carriage to its proper

place on the slide for shifting; place the muzzle-block, and make the

muzzle bear on it by means of the elevator; pass the strap around the

neck of the cascabel and put the shifting-spar through the strap; the

Quarter Gunner, assisted by the men from the after oars, raises the

field-carriage up on the tracks.

II. "TRAIL!"

33. The boat being beached in season, the men trail oars and jump to

their stations.

Nos. 3 and 4 over the bow to adjust the skids, which are launched by

Nos. 5 and 6.

No. 2 attends the elevator.

No. 3 attends the muzzle.

Nos. 8, 10, 11, and 13, the shifting-spar, assisted by as many of the

crew as can take hold.

No. 7 draws the loop-bolt.

The Stroke Oarsmen run the field-carriage forward, the Quarter Gunner

guiding it on the track by the trail.

III. "SHIFT THE HOWITZER!"

34. Nos. 1 and 2 clear the elevator; heave up the breech of the gun by

the spar; Nos. 5 and 6 back the bed on the slide; run the

field-carriage a little forward, so that its lugs come under the loop

of the howitzer; lower the piece; put in the loop-bolt and elevator;

hook on the drag-rope and ship the trail-handspike in its socket.

IV. "LAND!"

35. Nos. 5, 6, 7, and 8 now jump out of the boat, and, with Nos. 3 and

4, divide to each skid; not standing between them, but keeping outside

of them. The Stroke Oarsmen wheel the piece up to the gunwale by the

spokes, the Quarter Gunner guiding the trail by the trail-handspike,

and the rest of the crew take hold of the drag-rope to ease the gun

down from the bow, the Quarter Gunner still guiding it down the skids.

When down off the skids and on the bottom, the drag-rope is hooked

around the axle, and the howitzer run up on the beach.

The Captain of the howitzer superintends and assists whenever it may

be necessary.

The sponges and rammers are now to be attached in their places on the

trail.

The transporting-boxes will also be filled.

EMBARKATION OF THE HOWITZER.

36. When the howitzer is to be embarked, the transporting-boxes should

be taken off and put in the boat separately.

The men unsling the ammunition-pouches, and pass them into the boat,

which is to be brought to a convenient distance from the beach, and

the skids laid and secured.

The field-carriage is then pointed with the trail towards the boat,

and drawn down to the skids, with a wheel resting on each.

Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 divide at the wheels, and take hold of the

spokes, so as to assist the carriage up. No. 14 ships the

trail-handspike and tends it with No. 15. The rest of the men get into

the boat and take hold of the drag-rope. At the word "HEAVE!" the men

at the wheels bear the carriage up on the skids, those in the boat

haul on the drag-rope, and the two at the trail bear it up, so that

the Quarter Gunner, who stands at the bow, can get hold of the

trail-handspike and guide the carriage fairly.

When the howitzer is in the boat, the skids are unhooked and put in

the boat by Nos. 3, 4, 5, and 6.

The howitzer may now be shifted to the boat-carriage, by reversing the

process already described in orders Nos. 1, 2, and 3, for shifting to

the field-carriage.

[Illustration: Fig. 3. CREW AT THEIR STATIONS FOR ACTION; Fig. 1. CREW

AT THE DRAG ROPE.; Fig. 2. D. Van Nostrand Publisher. Julius Bien,

pr.]

37. EXERCISE WITH HOWITZER ON FIELD-CARRIAGE.

GUN'S CREW.

STATIONS. | DUTY.

Quarter Gunner |Charge of ammunition and spare

| equipments.

No. 1. Captain, rear of breech, to |Captain of piece -- points and fires

the right (or left, depending | the howitzer, superintends orders,

on the position of lock and | and gives orders in absence of an

sight). | officer.

2. Rear to breech, to the left. |Closes the vent, put in primer.

3. Right side of muzzle. |Sponges and rams home.

4. Left side of muzzle. |Receives and enters ammunition.

5. Rear and outside of right |Assists at right wheel.

wheel. |

6. Rear and outside of left |Passes ammunition, assists at left

wheel. | wheel.

7. Five yards rear of right |Assists at right wheel, attends bolt

wheel. | of trail-wheel and trail-handspike.

8. Five yards rear of left |Passes ammunition, assists at left

wheel. | wheel.

9. With No. 7. |Assists at right wheel.

10. With No. 8. |Assists at left wheel.

(Preparatory Order)--"MAN THE HOWITZER!"

38. The men go to their stations as above designated, the Captain of

the howitzer with his haversack, previously supplied, and all the men,

except Nos. 1 and 3, with one round in a pouch.

No. 3 takes the sponge and rammer.

No. 6 unbolts trail-wheel, and ships handspike in its socket of trail.

The transporting-boxes, if there be any with the howitzer, are to be

deposited about twenty-five yards in its rear, in charge of Quarter

Gunner.

The drag-rope is deposited with the ammunition-boxes.

I. "SPONGE!"

39. No. 3 enters the sponge, and, pressing it firmly to the bottom,

turns it round and withdraws it. No. 2 serves the vent.

Quarter Gunner takes a round from the ammunition-box, or from the

pouch or passing-box of one of the men; and, if shell or shrapnel be

used, holds it for the Officer in command of the piece to adjust the

fuze.

II. "LOAD!"

40. The charge is to be passed along by the Quarter Gunner to No. 8,

and by No. 8 to No. 6, and by No. 6 to No. 4, who enters it into the

muzzle.

No. 3 pushes home to the mark on rammer-handle.

No. 2 puts in primer, and covers it with his hand until Nos. 3 and 4

have withdrawn to their stations outside the wheels.

III. "POINT!"

41. Officer of gun puts up the sight, as directed by Officer in

command.

The Captain of the gun gives the piece the proper elevation with the

screw, and causes No. 7 to train the gun with the trail-handspike to

the desired direction. He then withdraws as far as the lock-lanyard

permits, standing on the quarter of the breech, and outside of the

wheel.

No. 2 stands outside of the left wheel. Nos. 3 and 4 fall back, and

the remainder of the gun's crew take the stations first assigned them.

IV. "FIRE!"

42. The Captain of the howitzer instantly draws the lanyard at the

word.

No. 2 closes the vent.

Nos. 4, 6, and 8 go to the left wheel; 5, 7, and 9 to the right wheel,

taking hold of the spokes, ready to wheel the carriage forward, as may

be directed by the Officer in command.

(Concluding Order)--"SECURE THE HOWITZER!"

43. The Quarter Gunner secures the transporting-boxes, and gets ready

the lashing.

The Captain of the howitzer coils the lanyard around the lock.

No. 7 bolts the trail-wheel.

No. 3 may carry the sponge in his hand if the fire is merely

suspended.

No. 7 may also carry the trail-handspike.

Nos. 8 and 9 hook on the drag-rope, and lead its parts fair for taking

hold.

Wheel the piece to the ammunition-boxes, and place them on the axle.

The piece is now ready for any change of position.

REMARKS ON THE USE OF NAVAL LIGHT ARTILLERY.

44. The facility with which the Naval Howitzers are handled is apt to

cause a misconception of the purposes for which Naval Light Artillery

should ordinarily be used on shore; which are, to be landed from boats

in such numbers as may be required, or admitted by circumstances,

supported by the seamen and marines of a squadron, and not to be

assembled as a battery, to replace, or be substituted for, regular

field-artillery.

45. The force landed should be handled as light infantry, for which

the individuality of sailor-life so well fits the men; while the

character of the gun, and the usually broken nature of the shore-line

renders this formation necessary.

46. Open order in approach, in landing, in motion, and in action, is

therefore advisable; because a compact formation requires too much

attention to position, distances, and alignments in any of them, with

more perfect drill than can well be obtained; and which, under fire,

exposes too much of a mark to every shot fired.

47. The evolutions in the field should constitute but a small part of

the general system of drill, either with a single howitzer or a

battery, and should be assimilated to those of light infantry,--that

is, the most extended order that the ground admits of,--never massing

the guns in close order, but habituating the seamen to open out with

them in skirmishing order, keeping on their flanks, never in their

rear, using every cover of ground, trees, or, if time will admit,

throwing up some earth as a protection against riflemen or the

wide-spread fire of shrapnel,--while at the same time the fire is

concentrated to prevent attack on the pieces in detail, or is

dispersed, as may be required.

48. Such a drill will best develop the scope and efficiency of the gun

as a naval arm, and will render most effective the peculiar advantages

of its lightness and mobility in rapid movements.

49. Evolutions in action, or preparatory thereto, should always be

performed with the ammunition in the pouches; it being a common error

in the service to use the ammunition-boxes at such times, when they

are only designed for service out of action.

50. If liable to be attacked, all the ground within musket range,

especially if it is broken by ravines, should be reconnoitred,

particularly on the flanks; and, if possible, all the approaches by

which the enemy, and particularly cavalry can approach, should be

obstructed; and all obstacles to a retreat or change of position

removed.

51. Although commanding positions are to be preferred, the top of a

hill should not be chosen where the men and pieces are relieved

against the sky, forming a much better mark.

52. Shell and Shrapnel produce a greater moral effect than grape or

canister, and in general a greater real injury, as the latter are

generally fired at too great distances.

NOTES ON THE USE OF BOAT-HOWITZERS.

53. N.B.--Before equipping boats with howitzers, notice attentively

the Hints for General Service, commencing at page 146, Boat Armament

of the U.S. Navy, and Suggestions for Landing, of that system, which

relate more especially to the condition and management of boat-guns.

54. Too much care cannot be taken to be fully provided, and to have

each detail in good condition; for, after the boat has left the ship,

it may be impossible to compensate for failure in some seemingly

trivial article.

55. The chief purposes of naval light artillery are:

1. To attack small vessels that are lightly armed, and furnish but

slight protection to the crews.

2. To contend with other armed boats.

3. To cover the landing of troops.

56. The landing of seamen is rather a remote contingency in the naval

service, and should never be resorted to when opposed by good

infantry, or when the object to be attained would take the seamen too

far from their boats, which should be the base of operations.

57. BOAT-GUNS.--No tackles are required to run out 12-pdrs.; but

24-pdrs. may possibly require them.

58. The hole in the cascabel for reeving a breeching has been

purposely omitted in howitzers, as hitherto the use of a breeching has

not been found necessary. Should one be required, a thimble may be

fitted to the neck of the knob to serve in place of this hole.

With a breeching, the piece may be fired as if on an ordinary

carriage.

59. The recoil is controlled by compressing the slide between the bed

and the lower plate. It is necessary, however, that the surfaces of

the carriage in contact should be plane. If they are not so, dismount

the gun and examine them, and where the wood is worn smooth, remove it

in the slightest manner, and correct the surfaces generally. In making

the surface plane, it is by no means necessary that it should be

rendered smooth. It ought to be as little so as possible for the

present purpose.

[Illustration: IMPROVED SHRAPNEL

SECTION OF 12 PDR. SHRAPNEL

With Bormann Fuze and Filling of Sulphur.

D. Van Nostrand Publisher. Julius Bien, pr.]

60. FIELD-CARRIAGE.--In order to moderate the recoil on smooth ground,

take out the axle or pin of the trail-wheel and turn the wheel up on

the trail.

For using the howitzer on shore, two transporting-boxes are supplied,

placed on a support and lashed to the axle of the field-carriage. When

more than a single piece is landed, it may be found convenient to

secure the trail of one field-carriage to the axle of another, and

then, by means of pieces of stuff, or boat's spars, secured from axle

to axle, to place the ammunition-boxes, provisions, and pouches upon

them.

61. Shrapnel may be effectively used where the dispersion of common

canister becomes too great and its effects feeble. It takes the place

of common shell, to a great extent, when uncovered masses of men are

in view, and is designed to burst in front of troops, at just such a

distance and height as to disperse the balls among them.

62. Similar terms are used in marking the sight and the fuze. Thus, if

the fuze be adjusted to 2 seconds, and the piece elevated by the sight

raised to the line on it marked 2 seconds, then the shrapnel will

burst about 500 yards from the piece, and spread its balls from that

point to a considerable distance further--effectively at least 150

yards.

The adjustment of the fuze to the distance and the altitude of

explosion are regulated to the elevation; and, therefore, the three

conditions to good effect may be said to depend mainly on a correct

knowledge of distance.

63. The 12-pdr. shrapnel contains 80 musket-balls, and if its

explosion occurs at one hundred or one hundred and twenty yards in

front of and fifteen to twenty yards above the object, one-seventh of

the number of balls may be relied on to take effect upon an object 20

by 10 feet in size.

64. Shells may be advantageously substituted for shrapnel when the

hostile force is sheltered, especially by such quarters as small craft

or merchantmen afford, or when material of any kind is the object of

the fire.

65. At two hundred yards canister, only, is required.

In case of a want of canister, the shrapnel or common shell furnishes

an excellent substitute by cutting into the magazine of the Bormann

fuze, which will cause it to explode at the muzzle.

66. When provided with the Bormann fuze, the shrapnel, or shell, as

issued, is complete. The upper surface of this fuze is graduated into

seconds and fourths of seconds; and it is only necessary to lay bare

the composition contained in the fuze, by the cutting-tool, to prepare

the projectile for instant use. In this respect the Bormann fuze has

an advantage over the ordinary fuze. The length of the fuzes limits

the distance within which the fire of these guns is considered as

effective.

67. The introduction of the 12-pounder rifled howitzer has greatly

extended the accuracy and effective range of the boat and field

artillery.

Solid shot and shell have sufficient penetration to be effective

against ordinary wooden vessels at any distance which the elevation

allowed by the respective carriages will reach. _See_ TABLE OF RANGES.

The shrapnel has sufficient velocity at 2,000 yards to disable men and

horses.

Hitherto no certain or efficient time-fuze has been adopted for rifled

howitzers.

There are objections to firing grape and canister from rifled guns, as

the grooves are injured thereby, and the rotary and irregular motion

given to the mass diminishes its effect. If used, the balls should be

of lead or zinc.

68. Fixed ammunition is preferable, on the score of greater

convenience, and of avoiding difficulties.

* * * * *

For MANOEUVRES OF BOATS ARMED FOR SERVICE, see "Naval Howitzers

Afloat;" by Commander Foxhall A. Parker, U.S.N.

LANDING SEAMEN, MARINES, AND HOWITZERS

FOR EXERCISE OR SERVICE ON SHORE.

69. As the efficiency of seamen when landed in any considerable number

depends most materially upon a proper system of organization and

training previous to their being landed, and without which they are

inefficient, the following system is recommended:

70. The small-arm men are to be formed into companies of 80 men, with

four petty officers. Each company to be commanded by a Lieutenant,

with two other officers. The company to be subdivided into two

platoons, and each platoon into two sections, and to be exercised in

such movements as are absolutely necessary to manoeuvre as a company

and in battalion, by the officers who are to command them.

71. Small vessels should furnish a platoon of 40 or section of 20 men,

that the companies formed by their aggregation may be of equal

strength.

72. The companies when landed are to fall in, and number from the

right according to the seniority of the Captains of their respective

ships, so that they at once will fall into their places according to

their number when landed.

73. Each ship landing two companies is to be prepared to land with the

small-arm men six Pioneers--2 with a saw and axe each, 2 with a

pickaxe and spade each, 2 with a small crowbar and sledge-hammer, or

such intrenching or other tools as the nature of the expedition may

require; the tools to be slung on the men's backs; smaller detachments

a proportionate number.

74. The ship's bugler, if she have one, or drummer, will be sent with

the men. He is to be able to sound the "Assembly," "Retreat," "Close,"

"Extend," "Commence Firing," and "Cease Firing," which sounds the men

are to be accustomed to on board ship.

75. If the men are likely to be on shore during the night, they should

have a haversack and blanket slung across their shoulders.

76. As muskets are apt to miss fire the first time if not properly

clean, the greatest precaution is to be taken to see that the nipple

is perfectly clear before loading; first, by blowing down the barrel

and placing the finger before the nipple, to feel that the air passes

through it, and afterwards snapping a cap off to dry up any oil or

moisture that may be in the barrel. To avoid accidents, it is better

not to cap the muskets until after landing.

77. When field-pieces are landed, the guns shall be numbered from the

right in the same manner as a company.

78. One or more armorers should be sent with each landing party with

cleaning-rods, screw-drivers, and spare nipples.

79. The boats should be formed in divisions, according to the

seniority of the Captains of their respective ships--or of the

Commanding Officers of the divisions--numbering from the right. The

seamen and marines, having been told off in companies previous to

leaving their ships, on landing they will form immediately in the same

order.

80. The howitzers being mounted as boat's guns and prepared for

landing are brought at once into action, or remain in the boats,

according to circumstances.

81. Each division of boats should have a distinguishing flag; and

scaling-ladders, intrenching tools, and other implements, should be

carried by designated boats.

82. The boats will always land a boat's length apart. Before leaving

the ship four boat-keepers should be appointed to each boat carrying a

howitzer, and two for the others, with an officer in charge of each

division of boats, who are on no account to leave them. Should there

be a probability of the landing party being attacked on a

re-embarkation, the boats should be hauled off to their anchors, with

a long scope of cable, having a stern-line to the beach, and a man in

the boat to veer in, that the troops may be readily embarked. The

officer left in charge of the boats should be careful to avoid being

surprised; and, if circumstances admit, strengthen his position by

cutting down trees and throwing up small breastworks a short distance

in front.

83. A fast-pulling boat with Medical Officers will attend in rear of

the line, designated by a yellow flag.

84. Should the distance from the point of landing be considerable, the

boats of each division, in tow of each other, lightest boats leading,

will fall in--the leading boat of each division abreast (Art. 72),

leaving space for the whole line to form abreast when ordered. On

approaching the beach the tow-ropes should be cast off, and the

launches with howitzers dress up in line ready to open fire, if

necessary, to clear the landing. The officer in command will commence

firing from the howitzers when he thinks fit; but no musketry is to be

fired without special orders.

85. When the Commanding Officer perceives the beach to be clear, or

when he considers it proper, he will order "Cease firing!" and direct

the boats with skirmishers and light howitzers to pull in and land as

quickly as possible. On landing they will immediately extend, advance,

and seize the first cover near the beach, if there be any, but will

not open fire till the Officer commanding them sounds "Commence

firing." The main body then pull steadily in and land, forming line in

rear of the covering party. The howitzers form on the flanks of their

divisions, or as ordered. Pioneers and scaling-ladders as ordered. The

main body being formed, will advance in line or column, according to

circumstances, preceded by the skirmishers firing, if necessary. When

firing in close order the front rank should fire kneeling, as, owing

to the shortness of muskets, accidents frequently occur. Under certain

circumstances, as advancing on an open beach, the boats might be

employed on the flanks to cover the advance or retreat.

86. Should the boats be employed for the disembarkation of troops, the

same arrangement should be made. It will then be desirable that every

boat should carry a flag similar to that of the Commanding Officer of

its division; and, when in large numbers, the boats should also be

painted according to the colors of the flags, that the troops may

readily know their own boats.

87. The re-embarkation should be conducted on similar principles to

the disembarkation--the skirmishers and light howitzers extending in

rear of the line, which will then pass through the intervals, forming

again, if necessary, to support the skirmishers, who will retire

firing, and re-form in rear of the line. The main body will then

embark, followed by the covering party under cover of the boats' guns.

88. When landing in a heavy surf, the ammunition should be put in one

or more small powder-tanks, with the lids well screwed down.

PART III.

ORDNANCE

AND

ORDNANCE STORES.

PART III.

CHAPTER I.

ORDNANCE AND ORDNANCE STORES.

1. All articles of Ordnance and Ordnance Stores, when duly delivered

at any Navy Yard, are to be borne on the books of the Inspector of

Ordnance, and duly accounted for, according to such regulations as

may, from time to time, be established by proper authority.

2. He will make monthly estimates and requisitions for all materials

and articles which may be required by the master workmen in the

Ordnance Department, and which he may deem necessary; which

requisitions are to be forwarded to the Chief of the Bureau for his

approval.

No articles are to be purchased without previous requisitions, nor any

to be used until duly inspected, approved, and receipted for.

Before reception, every article shall be carefully examined by the

master workman in whose department it is required, and such other

person as the Inspector shall appoint, and compared with samples, to

see that it conforms to the standard, and is, in quantity and quality,

as called for by the requisition or order of the Bureau for its

delivery.

He will keep on hand standard Patterns and Drawings, approved by the

Bureau of Ordnance, to which all articles of manufacture or issue

shall strictly conform; notifying the Bureau of any discrepancies

therefrom in articles received from other Yards, that unauthorized

variations may be checked and the manufactures of each Yard be

identical.

3. The Inspectors of Ordnance at all Navy Yards shall have the

immediate custody of all articles appertaining to ordnance, and they

shall be kept in suitable places, separate from the other articles in

the Yard.

And they will promptly inform the Bureau of all orders received from

Senior Officers, which may in the least affect the execution of the

instructions given by the Bureau in relation to their duties.

4. Inspectors of Ordnance having charge of the articles above

mentioned are, under the direction of the Commandant of the Yard, to

be responsible for their being carefully attended to, and preserved

from injury.

5. Whenever any of them shall require repairs, other than those which

can be made in the ordnance workshops, the Inspector will apply to the

Commandant of the Yard, or to the Bureau through him, for the

necessary means to keep all articles in his charge in order and ready

for service.

6. He shall require from master workmen employed on ordnance work

reports in the required form (see blank forms) of the expenditure of

materials and labor upon each and every object under their immediate

superintendence, at which time they will make a return of all

unexpended material on hand. They will also be responsible for all

waste and improper use of material by those under their general

superintendence.

7. The Inspector of Ordnance shall have authority over all master and

other workmen employed on ordnance work, and direct all its details.

He will examine and certify to the correctness of all bills rendered

for materials, supplies, or labor in the Ordnance Department, and

examine and certify to the correctness of the pay-roll of all persons

employed on ordnance work.

8. No Inspecting Officer or person employed by the Bureau is to show

to, or leave in the way of persons not authorized by the Bureau, any

drawing, descriptions, or dimensions of guns under contract, nor to

permit the examination by such persons of the guns themselves.

9. The resident and other Inspectors are to inform the contractors of

this strict requirement on the part of the Bureau, and to request them

to cause it to be rigidly enforced by all persons under their control.

10. It is most positively forbidden to communicate any information

whatever in relation to ordnance matters, or to show or describe

ordnance work, of any description, to any person not in the employ of

the government, unless by superior authority.

Inspectors are also directed not to hold correspondence in writing

with manufacturers, contractors, or other parties in relation to

ordnance supplies, unless specially directed by the Bureau.

Officers on Ordnance duty will give no official opinion, to Inventors

or others, upon the merits of any invention appertaining to Ordnance,

which may be submitted to them officially or unofficially for

examination, unless by special direction of the Bureau of Ordnance.

All such opinions will be forwarded to the Bureau, to whom parties

must be referred for information.

11. The Inspectors of Ordnance at the several Yards and stations are

required to enjoin upon all their employes the strictest secrecy in

relation to every thing connected with their duties. No information

whatever is to be given to any one in relation to the prices of

articles, the details of work, or the condition of ordnance or

ordnance supplies.

Any breach of this order is to be followed by prompt dismissal from

employment.

12. Whenever any ordnance stores shall be furnished to vessels, or for

any other purpose, the Ordnance Officer shall take proper receipts for

them from the officer to whom they are delivered. These receipts shall

be signed at the Ordnance office, and the commander is required to

ascertain before sailing if the proper officers have signed all

receipts and vouchers.

13. The Ordnance Officer will deliver with them an Invoice of the

number and cost of such stores, retaining a receipted duplicate,

approved by the commander, to be forwarded to the Bureau of Ordnance.

One Ledger, one Invoice, and twenty blanks for Quarterly Returns to

the Bureau of Ordnance, are to be furnished each vessel fitted for

sea.

If any articles are purchased abroad, or obtained from other stations

after the vessel is regularly fitted for sea, they should be duly

entered in the Ledger, and a note made therein stating when, and from

what source received; and, if practicable, their number and cost

should be inserted in the Invoice of other articles supplied the

vessel.

14. A separate list shall be furnished to all commanders of vessels of

the ammunition furnished, which list is to be returned to the Ordnance

Officer of the Yard to which the vessel shall return, with any

additional supplies which she may receive during the cruise entered on

it.

15. The allowances which are prescribed for the different classes of

vessels in the Table of Allowances are not to be exceeded, except by

the express sanction of the Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance.

16. It shall be the duty of any commander of a vessel, before making

or approving requisitions, to examine the allowance table and

expenditure books, to see that the amount required, together with that

on hand, does not exceed the allowance, and that the articles required

are allowed. If these articles are not allowed, or are in excess of

the allowance, but are, in his opinion, necessary for the use of the

ship under his command, he will state on the requisition, opposite the

article, "in excess of allowance," or, "not allowed," and the reason

why considered necessary, before sending it to the Commandant of the

Yard or Squadron for his approval.

In case he shall neglect so to do, the Inspector of Ordnance will only

furnish the allowance, and shall return the requisition for

correction, calling the attention of the approving officer to this

neglect.

17. All Ordnance Stores, except the ammunition, shall be delivered to

the Gunner, or other officer appointed to receive them, at the

ordnance store-houses, the Inspector of Ordnance furnishing him with

the means of transportation, and men for stowing them in their

appointed places on board, when the crew are not available for this

purpose.

In order to guard against the loss or misdirection of Ordnance Stores,

which has frequently been found to occur whilst they were being

transferred from the Ordnance Store-houses to vessels going into

commission, or in the case of vessels landing their stores on

returning from a cruise:

The Bureau directs that whenever Ordnance Stores of any kind are to be

received from or delivered on board of a vessel, a responsible officer

be present, whose duty it shall be to take an exact account of them

and see them safely delivered at their destination, indorsing the

Receipts and Invoices with his name.

For any loss that may occur in the performance of this duty, that

officer will be held pecuniarily responsible; and whenever any stores

are found to be missing, the name of the officer who superintended

their removal is immediately to be forwarded to the Bureau.

The Inspector of Ordnance will be vigilant in seeing this order

strictly carried out.

18. All stores landed from ships will be received at the Ordnance

Store-houses, when all responsibility on the part of the officer

delivering them shall cease, and a survey be held, as soon thereafter

as practicable, to determine the quantity of stores, and the condition

in which they are delivered.--(See form of survey.)

When the vessel returns to a yard to be refitted or to be laid up at

the end of the cruise, her Ledger and Invoice are to be handed to the

Ordnance Officer of the yard for his examination, and for the use of

the officers who may be ordered to hold a survey upon the Ordnance

Equipments and Stores; and when the survey is completed, both Ledger

and Invoice are to be forwarded to the Bureau of Ordnance with the

report of survey.

19. It having been found that in the "Reports of Survey" made at the

different Navy Yards on the Ordnance Stores of vessels returning from

sea, many articles are put down as "deficient by Returns" without

these deficiencies being in any way accounted for, the Bureau directs

that the Surveying Officers shall require the Gunner (or other officer

having charge of the Ordnance Stores, in case there be no Gunner on

board) to show a just cause for said deficiencies; a statement of

which, properly signed, is to be forwarded to the Bureau with the

Report of Survey. In case of his failure to do so, he will be held

responsible for the loss, and the value of the deficient articles

checked against his pay.

Where arms or other articles are lost or destroyed in action, the fact

must be properly authenticated by the signature of the Commanding or

Executive Officer.

20. Ordnance Ledgers of all vessels coming from a cruise shall be

signed by the Gunner or Executive Officer and the officer in command

before leaving the Yard or station.

Invoices and Receipts must invariably be given and taken of all

ordnance, ordnance stores, equipments, and small arms, when

transferred from the keeping of one officer to another.

And whenever any article of ordnance is lost or mutilated, the fact

shall be reported to the Bureau, with all the circumstances of the

case, and the value of the same will be deducted from the pay of the

person having it in his possession at the time, unless sufficient

reason for a contrary course should appear.

21. It shall be the duty of the Inspector of Ordnance (or of the

officers who inspect a ship on her return from a cruise) to report to

the Bureau the condition in which the articles under the charge of the

Gunner may be transferred, that his care and attention may be properly

known and appreciated.

22. Officers upon Ordnance duty at Navy Yards may correspond with the

Bureau on subjects connected with Ordnance duties, forwarding their

communications open, to the Commandant of the Yard for transmission.

23. The dates of all circulars, orders, telegrams, or letters to which

reference is made in corresponding with the Bureau, shall be

distinctly quoted.

And the same rule is to be observed in forwarding triplicate Bills,

Bills of Lading, and Invoices, the date of the order or orders being

written across the face in red ink; and the receipt of all telegrams

must be immediately acknowledged.

24. The Commandants will, in forwarding communications, accompany them

with such remarks or recommendations as they may deem proper, and at

any other time make such suggestions as they may consider will promote

the public interest.

25. In shipping or forwarding stores each box or package shall be

numbered, and have the nature of its contents stencilled or marked on

the outside, and noted on the Invoice. The Invoice should in all cases

of shipment accompany the articles.

All stores intended for shipment to squadrons, shall be legibly and

conspicuously addressed to the Commander-in-Chief of the squadron, and

marked for that squadron.

INSPECTION AND PROOF OF NAVAL GUNS

26. All cannon for the navy, cast at private foundries, will be

fabricated in strict accordance with the terms of the contract made

with the Bureau of Ordnance, and subject to the inspection of an

officer detailed to supervise the operations. (See "Instructions for

the Inspection and Proof of Cannon, 1864," for further details.)

27. New guns are to be closely examined and measured, inside and out,

for defects of metal or manufacture, and the results recorded in the

prescribed forms by the Inspector resident at the foundry, as soon

after being finished as possible, if he has not already done so in the

various stages of manufacture, which is preferable, as the detection

of errors which pass the limits of toleration may save useless

subsequent labor. Internal defects of metal will, for instance,

generally be betrayed by a close examination of the core-pieces. As

rust tends to conceal defects, this examination of the guns is to take

place before exposure to the weather. And previously to the final

examination and proof of guns, they are not to be covered with paint,

lacquer, oil, or any material which may hide defects of metal.

If it is ascertained that any attempt has been made to conceal

defects, the gun or guns so treated are to be rejected without further

examination.

As the water-proof, which is of great importance in detecting defects

of metal not otherwise developed, necessarily succeeds immediately the

powder-proof, and can be effectively applied only in fine weather, and

when the temperature is above the freezing-point, final inspections

are to be made at such times only.

DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF INSTRUMENTS REQUIRED AND USED IN THE INSPECTION

AND PROOF OF GUNS.

28. 1st. A mirror for reflecting the sun's rays into the bores. Two

will be required if the sun be in the rear of the Inspector.

2d. A lamp attached to a staff for examining the bores when the sun is

obscured, or the guns are under cover.

3d. A standard cylinder gauge. This is a hollow cylinder of iron,

turned to the least allowed diameter of the bore, and one calibre in

length. It has a cross-head at each end, one of which has a smooth

hole through its axis to fit the staff, and the other is tapped to

receive the screw in the end of it.

[Illustration: DAHLGREN SHELL GUN

PARROTT RIFLE GUN 1864.

D. Van Nostrand Publisher. Julius Bien, pr.]

4th. A measuring-staff of steel or iron, in joints of suitable length,

connected together by screws. Each joint is provided with a light

brass disk, the diameter of which is 0.05 inches less than that of the

bore. Through the centre of the disk there is a hole which fits upon a

shoulder at the joint; the whole is so arranged that when the joints

are screwed together the disks between them are held firmly in place,

while the length of the staff is not affected by them. A steel point

is screwed on to the end. When pushed to the bottom of the bore, the

staff coincides very nearly with its axis. The outer joint is

graduated to inches and tenths. A slide is made to play upon it with a

vernier scale, graduated to hundredths of an inch. On the inner end of

the slide a branch projects at a right angle, sufficiently long to

reach across the muzzle face, and, when in contact with it, to

indicate the precise length obtained from that point to the end of the

measuring-point on the other end of the staff. A half disk of wood,

made to fit the bore, with a groove for the staff to rest in, placed

just inside of the muzzle, is useful in preventing any springing of

the staff.

The point being taken off, the staff can be used with the cylinder

gauge, to measure the distance to which the latter descends. But as

the graduation is intended for the points, care must be taken in this

case to allow for the difference.

5th. A chamber-gauge for verifying the shape and size of conical

chambers.

The head should be made of close-grained, well-seasoned wood, and of

the exact dimensions of the chamber. Two planes, crossing each other

at a right angle, coinciding with the vertical and horizontal central

sections, have been found better than a solid block. The edges should

be bevelled. A metal socket in its centre connects it with the

measuring-staff. Being pushed to the bottom of the bore, if the length

coincides with that obtained by the point, it is obvious that the

chamber is large enough, provided the cylindrical part has not been

bored too deep, in which case a shoulder would be found at the

junction. The edges of the gauge should be chalked before it is

inserted. When withdrawn, if the chalk-marks are visible all around

the chamber, it is evident the chamber is not too large. With slight

modifications, this arrangement may be applied to the slope of

cylindrical chambers, and to the curve at the bottom of the bore of

any guns. Should the inspection of guns with conical chambers or

slopes take place at the foundry, an examination of the chamber reamer

will be very satisfactory. If found correct in size and shape, the

impossibility of making the chamber too large will be apparent.

6th. A star-gauge, for measuring the diameters of the bores and of

cylindrical chambers. This instrument is composed of the staff, the

handle, and a set of points for each calibre.

The staff is a brass tube, made in three pieces, for convenience of

stowage, and connected together, when required, by screws. Its inner

end expands into a head, in which are placed four steel sockets, at

equal distances from each other, which receive the points. Two of the

sockets opposite to each other are secured permanently. The two others

are movable. A tapering plate or wedge, the sides of which are

cylindrical, runs through a slit in the head; an aperture in the inner

ends of the movable socket embraces the cylinder, so that when the

plate is moved forward or backward, the sockets are projected or

withdrawn. The tapering of the plate has a certain known proportion to

its length, so that if it is moved in either direction a given

distance, a proportional movement is imparted to the sockets, and to

the points which they contain. It is easy to see how, in this manner,

a movement of .10 in. may increase or diminish the distance between

the points .01 in. Therefore there would be no difficulty in

estimating, to a considerable degree of accuracy, a difference of .001

in. between the points. In general, however, the distance on the plate

required to move the points .01 in. is about .06 in. only.

A square sliding rod is connected with the tapering plate, and runs

through the whole length of the tube, projecting some inches beyond

the outer end. This rod has as many parts as there are joints in the

staff, and, like them, connects by screws. Each section of the rod

works in its proper joint, through a square socket at each end, and is

prevented from falling out by pins. When screwing the joints together,

if the ends of the rod are pressed up to each other they become

connected by the same motion.

The staff is graduated to inches and quarters, so that the distance of

the points from the muzzle of the gun may always be known. A centre

line, starting from the centre of the upper socket, is marked upon the

staff throughout its length.

The handle in use at present is of brass, made to fit over the outer

end of the staff, and to connect with the sliding rod by a screw,

having a large milled head at the outer extremity of the handle. It

may be used on either joint, as required. A slit through the handle

permits a part of the staff near the end to be seen beneath. A scale

on one side of the slit is graduated with the distance that the rod

moves, to throw the points .01 in. apart.

That part of the handle containing the slit and scale is separated

from the other part; it is made to fit closely over it. On each side

there is a small tube; a thread is cut in one, through which a fine

screw, held by a stud on the permanent part of the handle, works and

gives it motion; a guide runs through the other. Seen through the slit

is a small plate of silver inserted in the staff, and a fine mark upon

it to show the place of zero, when the points are adjusted. The

zero-mark on the scale is made to correspond with it by means of the

screw just mentioned.

The points are of steel, with a strong shoulder at one end, below

which the screw is cut that fits into the socket in the head. A wrench

is made to fit the other end, so as to turn the point firmly into its

place. They are made of such a length that they will just pass into

the adjusting-ring when they are all in place. To this instrument

belong the adjusting-rings and the muzzle-rest in the form of T; of

the rings there is one for each calibre, reamed out to the exact

minimum diameter of the bore. The latter can be used for any class of

guns. Its office is to keep the staff of the star-gauge in the axis of

the bore. For this purpose it contains a groove, above the

perpendicular branch, to receive the lower half of the staff. There is

a movable slide on each branch, which can be adjusted to marks for

each calibre, so that points projecting from their rear will enter the

muzzle and hold the rest in place. In this position the upper edge of

the transverse branch coincides with the diameter of the bore.

A hook is pivoted on the inner side of the transverse branch, on one

side of the groove, and so fitted that when the star-gauge is in the

gun, it embraces one-half of that portion of the staff which is above

the groove. Therefore, if the transverse branch be placed so as to

coincide with the axis of the trunnions, the hook thrown over the

staff, and the latter turned so that the centre line just meets the

end of the hook, the perpendicular points will be perpendicular to the

axis of the trunnions. If the staff is then drawn out carefully, the

measurements will all be taken in the same plane. A notch in the end

of the hook, made to coincide with the plane of the muzzle, may be

used for marking the distances on the staff.

The upright branch is movable, and is made to fit into the end of the

transverse branch, for convenience and security in packing.

In examining the bores after proof, it has been found that the

greatest indentation occurs in general near the seat of the

projectiles. But, as it is not always found at precisely the same

point of the circle of the bore, a convenient mode of searching for it

is desirable. This is supplied by a disk for circular measurements,

which may also be considered as belonging to the star-gauge. It is

made of composition, and is divided into halves, with a hole through

the centre to receive the staff of the star-gauge.

It is turned so as to fit into the muzzle of the gun closely, with a

projecting lip two or three inches broad to hold it in place, and with

cleats overlapping the edges, to keep it from going in too far. The

face is a plane surface. The circumference is divided into as many

equal parts as may be thought desirable, which are numbered in regular

order. The centre hole is reinforced on the inside by a projection

which is turned to receive a collar that fits closely around it, and

holds the two halves together when they are placed on the staff.

When ready for use, the face is in the plane of the muzzle-face. Its

zero-mark is made to coincide with a light punch-mark on the

muzzle-face, directly below the line of sight.

On the staff of the star-gauge a brass slide is fitted, having a

thumb-screw to hold it in any position; from the inner end a point

extends at a right angle to its axis, of sufficient length to meet the

points at the circumference of the disk; a centre line extends from

the base to the apex. The slide being moved so as to make its inner

end coincide with any mark upon the staff, at which a circular

measurement is required, and the centre line of the point being made

to coincide with that of the staff, it is secured by the thumb-screw.

The point of the slide is then in the same plane with the

perpendicular measuring-points, and its direction always indicates

them; a series of measurements, made before proof, may thus be

compared with another made at the same points after proof.

It is obvious that the determinations will not be absolutely accurate,

for when the gun is worn, should the stationary points be

perpendicular, the movable points, being then horizontal, would fall

below the true horizontal diameter, and the measurements would be more

in error than it would be with the points in any other direction.

Still, if care is taken to preserve the points at the greatest length

possible, a very tolerable degree of accuracy may be attained. In the

inspection of guns arranged on skids, the gun itself should be turned,

which will insure accurate measurements. Care must also be taken not

to allow the joints of the staff to become so loose that the

coincidence of the centre line is destroyed when they are screwed

together. If this should occur, however, a few turns of thread, placed

between them at the time of putting the instrument together, would

remedy the difficulty.

7th. An instrument for verifying the interior position of vents.

When the vent is drilled in the vertical plane of the axis, as in the

guns of old patterns, a simple head, shaped to fit the bottom of the

bore, or the chamber, with a staff fitted to it, is sufficient. But

for the Dahlgren guns, with two vents, some other plan is better. The

following has been found satisfactory:

A head of well-seasoned wood, which is fitted to the chamber, is

attached to a wooden disk of the diameter of the main bore. The

surface of the head corresponds with a longitudinal central section of

the chamber; at the point where the projection of the vent would meet

it a piece of hard wood is inserted. A central line drawn through its

length, crossed at a right angle by another line at any known point

from the smaller end, will afford convenient points to measure from. A

stout square wooden staff is attached to the axis of the head; at a

distance equal to the length of the bore, the end is jogged into the

centre of a half disk of wood, which is fitted to the bore. The whole

is so constructed that the straight edge of the half disk (or the

chord) is in the same plane as a horizontal section of the head. A few

holes are bored through the disk attached to the half head, to allow

the instrument to pass freely into the gun and out of it.

A wire of untempered steel, of the size of the vent, with a sharp,

well-centred point, and a small spirit-level, are required to use with

this instrument.

The gun being levelled, and the instrument being pushed to the bottom

of the bore, the upper edge of the half disk near the outer end of the

staff is then brought to a level. The surface of the half head then

corresponds with the horizontal central section of the chamber. The

point of the wire being pushed gently to meet it, will show very

accurately the interior position of the vent.

8th. Profile-boards for distances in front and rear of the base line.

Their lower edges are adapted to the shape of the gun, and the upper

ones are parallel to the axis of the bore.

The distances from the base-line of the several parts, and of the

points at which diameters are to be measured, are laid off accurately

on the upper edge, and then marked in lines perpendicular to it on the

sides and lower edges of the profile. An iron strip is attached to the

upper edge to prevent warping, and the whole is well coated with

shellac varnish, to keep it from absorbing moisture.

The following instruments are used in connection with the

profile-boards:

A rule for verifying the marks, of such a length that not more than

one fleeting may be necessary, to be graduated decimally according to

the standard.

A small square of steel, to be used in referring the marks on the

board to those on the rule.

A steel straight-edge, long enough to extend across the muzzle-face,

and several inches on the board, to ascertain the extreme length from

base to muzzle. It is also used for the same purpose at the extreme

end of the cascabel.

A steel scratcher, to mark the gun at points not otherwise indicated,

where diameters are to be measured.

9th. A trunnion-square of steel or iron for ascertaining the position

of the trunnions, with reference to the axis of the bore. This

instrument is a square with two branches, one of which is fixed and

the other movable. The foot of each branch is in the same plane, and

is parallel to the upper edge of the main piece which connects them.

The latter is graduated to inches and tenths. The movable branch

slides on the main piece, and may be secured to it by two

thumb-screws. It is provided with a vernier scale graduated to

hundredths of an inch. Between the branches there is a slide, also

provided with a vernier graduated as before, with a thumb-screw to

secure it firmly; in its centre there is a sliding-point, moving

vertically, with a thumb-screw to fasten it. Above the foot of each

branch there is a slit to receive the shank of a plate, on the end of

which a thread is cut; the lower edge of the plate forms a right angle

with the branch, and the plate is fastened to the branch by a nut, at

a point from the end equal to the semi-diameter of the trunnion, which

is marked on each branch.

When the feet of the branches, or the lower edge of the plates, rest

upon the trunnions, the upper edge of the main piece is parallel to

their axis, if their alignment is correct. When in the latter

position, the edges of the feet will lie close against the sides of

the trunnions.

A graduated steel wedge is used to measure the deviation of the

trunnions from the feet of the square.

10th. A trunnion-gauge, which is an iron ring of the proper diameter

of the trunnions. Its outer edge coincides with the diameter of the

rimbases.

11th. A trunnion-rule, to measure the distance of the trunnions from

the base ring, or line. This is an iron rod with a head at one end,

through which passes one branch of a small square. The centre of the

rod is marked on the end, and the square is set so that the inner edge

of the branch which is parallel to the rod is at a distance equal to

the semi-diameter of the trunnion from the centre. It is secured in

this position by screws and clamps.

The upper side of the rod is graduated to inches and tenths. A slide

with a slot through it, to show the graduation beneath, traverses upon

it, and is kept from turning by a guide on the lower side. There is a

vernier upon the slide, graduated to hundredths of an inch; a

thumb-screw serves to secure the slide at any point on the rod. That

end of the slide from which the graduation of the rod commences has

both of its sides drawn out, to form knife-edges; the knife-edges and

the end of the slide are in the same plane. When the square at the end

is placed on the trunnion, the end of the rod will touch its side at

the point of its greatest diameter. The rod being held parallel to the

axis of the bore, with the side of the head pressing the rimbase, the

knife-edge will be in a proper position to fall into the base line

when moved to find it.

12th. A beam-calliper for measuring diameters is a square of steel or

iron, with two branches, one of which is fixed and the other sliding.

The inner edges of the two branches, when pushed together, lie, of

course, in contact with each other throughout their length. The beam

is graduated to inches and tenths. A vernier is attached to the

sliding branch, graduated to hundredths of an inch. The latter is

provided with a thumb-screw, to fasten it at any point.

The length of the beam must be rather greater than the diameter; and

that of the branches than the semi-diameter of the guns to be

inspected, at their largest points.

13th. A cascabel-block is a wooden cylinder of the proper diameter of

the breeching-hole, the size of which it is used to verify.

The opening between the jaws may be ascertained by measuring the iron

block which is fitted to go between them, or by a template.

14th. A vent-guide, to be used with vents in guns of Dahlgren's

pattern.

This instrument is made of bronze or composition. When placed upon the

gun, one of its branches coincides with the curve of the cylinder, and

the other, starting from its centre, lies along the cylinder in

contact with it longitudinally. The lower edges of the branches are a

right line and a curved line, making two right angles with each

other. The length of that of the transverse branch is equal to the

distance between the centre of the two vents. The rear surface of the

transverse branch is curved and quadrilateral. Its sides are inclined,

so that their rear edges show the exact direction of the vents. Every

point in the upper edge lies in the same horizontal plane. The height

is sufficient to permit the edges to give an accurate direction to the

drill.

The upper edge of the other branch runs off in a sloping curve to its

extremity.

A centre line is drawn through the lower edge of the longitudinal

branch, and is continued upwards on the rear surface of the transverse

branch to the top.

The guide being placed with its centre upon the centre mark of the

gun, and the centre line of the longitudinal branch being made to

coincide with the centre line scribed upon the cylinder, the rear

lower edge of the transverse branch will then coincide with the

base-line, its extremities will indicate the centres of the vents, and

the rear edges of the sides will show their true direction.

15th. Vent-gauges of untempered steel wire, with shoulders to prevent

them from slipping into the vent. One should be of the proper diameter

of the vent, one of the greatest, and one of the least diameter

allowed.

16th. A vent-searcher, a steel wire of the length of the vent, bent to

a right angle at the lower end and pointed. It is used for detecting

imperfections in the sides of the vents.

17th. A semicircular protractor of metal for measuring the inclination

of vents, or for ascertaining their deviation from the guide.

18th. A set of templates for verifying the shape of lock-lugs, the

angle of the rear sight mass, the curve between the base-line and the

front of rear sight mass, that at the end of the cascabel, the bevel

of the breeching-hole, the opening of the cascabel, and the shape of

the muzzle swell.

If the inspection should take place at the foundry, the templates used

in chipping might be verified and used for inspection.

For guns of Dahlgren's pattern, a bronze model, showing the shape of

the lugs and rear sight mass, and the position of the vents, is

furnished as a guide to the contractors.

19th. A standard foot-rule for verifying measures.

20th. A foot-rule of steel for measuring the masses, the length of the

trunnions, and for other purposes. The graduation should be extended

to each end.

21st. A set of ring-gauges, large, medium, and small, for inspecting

the projectiles used in proof.

22d. A small beam-calliper, with outside edges, for examining the

adjusting rings and the ring-gauges.

23d. A platform balance, for weighing the projectiles used in proof,

and for bringing the shells up to the standard weight. For use with

the above there should be provided a bag of dry sand, a funnel, some

wooden plugs for the fuze-holes, and a hammer.

24th. A set of implements for loading and cleaning, viz.:

A rammer, faced with hard wood or metal, with a graduated scale on

the staff, near the muzzle, to show the distance of the front of the

projectiles from the muzzle.

A bristle sponge with a worm in its end, for ordinary use in firing.

A sheepskin sponge, for drying the bore after cleaning it.

A gun-scraper.

A ladle.

A boring-bit.

A priming-wire.

A lock and lanyard, should navy primers be used in firing; but if

friction primers are used, then a lanyard with a hook in its end will

be required, only.

A breeching and a couple of tackles, if the guns should be fired on

skids.

Six handspikes.

Six buckets and a large tub, for washing out the guns.

If the firing is made into a butt, a couple of wheelbarrows, with two

or three pickaxes and half a dozen shovels, will be necessary.

25th. A searcher, with six or more points, to detect injuries or

cavities in the bore.

26th. A machine for taking the interior impression of vents.

This consists of a wooden head, one-half of which is cylindrical, and

the other half is of the shape of the chamber, both being rather

smaller than the parts of the bore that they are intended for. A

staff, flat on its upper side, and rounded on its under side to fit

the curve of the bore, is mortised into the circumference of the

cylindrical part of the head. A mortise is cut through the chamber

part of the head, extending several inches in rear and front of the

position of the vent. Into this mortise a loose piece is fitted,

capable of free motion upwards and downwards, the top of which is

pierced with holes to secure the wax or composition which is spread

over its surface. This movable piece rests on a wedge attached to a

flat rod running through a slot in the head; there is a slot in this

rod about four inches long, a pin passing through it into the staff.

To use the instrument, withdraw the rod as far as the slot will

permit, which will allow the movable piece on which the composition

has been spread to drop below the surface of the head, and protect it.

Push the head to the bottom of the chamber, and arrange the position

of the staff so that the movable piece will cover the vent, then press

the end of the rod home. This motion will throw out the composition,

and a distinct impression of the vent and of fire-cracks (should there

be any) will be left upon its surface; draw the rod back as far as

the slot will allow, and withdraw the instrument: the impression,

being protected thereby, will come out uninjured.

Impressions of injuries or cavities in the bore may easily be taken by

a similar contrivance.

27th. Hydraulic pump and apparatus for the water-proof.

Any of the various patterns of this machine may be applied to the

proof of guns. An iron cross-head is secured to a stout wooden block

which fits into the muzzle, and which has a flange or shoulder to

cover the muzzle-face; rings of caoutchouc or gutta-percha are placed

between them; an iron rod with a ring in one end, to fit over the

trunnion, and with a thread cut on the other end, is used on each side

of the gun, to connect the trunnion with the cross-head. The whole is

set up with nuts, and the pressure upon the rings makes a tight joint;

a coupling upon the cross-head receives the hose, and the water is

forced into the gun through a hole in the wooden block. Care should be

taken that the valve is loaded with the proper weight for proof.

28th. Dies for marking guns.--A full set of figures, with such capital

letters as may be required for the inspection-marks; these should be

one inch in length. Also, small letters of suitable size to mark

"lbs.," and a full set of half-inch figures.

USE OF THE INSPECTING INSTRUMENTS.

29. The guns having been freed from rust, and their foundry numbers

noted, in the order of their relative positions, on the field-book,

the inspecting officer will proceed to verify the instruments to be

used in their measurement, if this has not been previously done in a

manner entirely satisfactory to him.

He will then examine carefully the guns, inside and out, for defects

of metal or of manufacture, and note the results.

The interior of the bore is to be examined by reflecting the rays of

the sun into it from a mirror or mirrors; or, if the sun is obscured,

and there can be no delay, by means of a spirit-lamp, or of a wax

taper, on the end of a rod, taking care not to smoke the surface of

the bore.

The cylinder-gauge is then to be introduced, which must pass freely to

the bottom of the cylindrical part of the bore. If obstructed, the

depth to which it reaches should be noted.

The star-gauge is used to ascertain the exact diameter of the bore,

and of the cylindrical part of the chamber. The bore must be measured

at intervals of 1/4 inch from the bottom of the cylindrical part to

the seat of the shot; of 1 inch from that point to the trunnions; and

of 5 inches from the trunnions to the muzzle. If any marks of the

reamer or other defects are seen in the bore, they are to be searched

for, and their depths and positions noted. These results are to be

tabulated according to the blank forms furnished. The whole length of

the bore is ascertained by means of the measuring-staff, with the

point screwed on, supported in the axis of the bore by the disks and

half-tompion.

In the absence of this instrument, a pine rod, having the proper

length of the bore marked on it, and the end rounded to the curve of

the bottom of the bore, will answer as well, using a thread or a

straight-edge across the face of the muzzle.

The shape and dimensions of the chamber, and the position of the

interior orifice of the vent, are verified by means of the

chamber-gauge, the description of which will explain its use. An

inspection of the chamber-reamer will be generally satisfactory in

determining the size and shape of the chamber.

The vent is measured by the appropriate gauges, the smaller of which

must enter freely, and the larger not at all. It is searched for

roughness, or for cavities in the metal around it, by means of the

searcher, the point of which should feel every part of it carefully.

Its inclination to the surface, and its position externally, are

verified by means of the vent-guide furnished for the Dahlgren guns,

and by the semicircular protractor and the vent-gauge.

In guns of the ordinary construction, the position of the vent is

marked on the profile-board, and its inclination to the surface is

determined by the protractor and vent-gauge.

The exterior lengths of the gun are measured by the profile-board,

marked with the true dimensions, the differences being measured by the

foot-rule, or, if minute, estimated by the eye.

The exterior diameters are measured with the calipers and square, or

by the set-gauges used in turning, and a graduated wedge.

To verify the position and alignment of the trunnions of a gun, it is

first necessary to ascertain, by means of the trunnion-gauge and of

the calipers, their cylindrical form and their diameters, which should

be the same, or allowance must be made for half the difference in

measuring their axial distances from the base-line, by the

trunnion-rule, which should next be done. These distances should be

equal, or their axes do not coincide--an error not tolerated.

The trunnion-square is then placed upon the trunnions in the plane of

their axis. The feet of its branches should coincide with the surfaces

of both trunnions, throughout their length, above and in rear, and

their inner edges with the faces of the rimbases. Then, with the

beam-compass, scribe on the upper surface of the gun the distance of

the axis of the trunnions from the base-line, and push the

sliding-point of the square down, till, at that distance, it touches

the surface of the gun, and screw it fast. Then turn the gun over, and

again scribe on it the same distance from the base-line. The square,

being again applied, will determine whether the trunnions are above or

below the axis of the bore, which will coincide with that of the gun,

if accurately bored, and turned on the same centres and bearings. If

the branches rest upon the trunnions before the point of the slider

touches the gun at the scribe, their axis is below; but if the point

touch first, above the axis of the bore, by half the space between.

The graduated wedge, being placed under the vertical sliding-point,

will determine the amount. If both touch at once, both axes are in the

same plane.

No gun can be received, the axis of the trunnions of which is above

that of the bore.

The lengths of the trunnions are measured with the foot-rule, and the

diameters of the rimbases by that of the exterior rim of the

trunnion-gauge.

If the alignment of the trunnions be correct, it will serve as a means

of determining the correctness of the line of sight, which, before the

gun is removed from the lathe, should be distinctly traced on the

sight-masses and the swell of the muzzle, and should be at right

angles to the base-line, to the axes of the trunnions, and to the

connecting piece of the trunnion-square, when its branches rest

against their rear, with the plates across their upper surfaces.

The Inspector will further satisfy himself of the correct tracing of

the line of sight on the gun, by examining the lathe and the manner

of tracing it in the plane of the axis of the bore, at right angles to

the axis of the trunnions, as by it are placed the sights and vent,

and in their absence it serves as a line of metal sight.

The positions of the sight-masses are verified by the profile-board,

and by reference to the line of sight, traced on them; their form and

dimensions by the templates.

The positions of the lock-lugs and their forms are verified by means

of the bronze pattern furnished to each foundry for each class of the

Dahlgren guns, and their dimensions by the templates. For other guns

the position of the lock-piece is marked on the profile-board, and

their measures taken as above.

The opening of the cascabel and its curves, and those of the breech

and the muzzle-swell, are verified by means of the "cylinder-block"

and the templates.

30. The following variations from the proper dimensions may be

tolerated by the Inspector, though every effort should be made to

conform exactly to the drafts furnished by the Bureau of Ordnance.

In the diameter of the bore { more 0.03

{ less 0.00

Exterior diameter { where turned } more .05

{ or planed } less .05

{

{ where not } more .20

{ turned or planed } less .05

In the length { of the bore, more or less .10

{ from rear of base-ring or line to face of

{ the muzzle, more or less .25

{ of the cascabel, from rear of base-ring to

{ the end, more or less .20

{ of the reinforce, more or less .15

From the axis of trunnions to base-line, more or less .05

In the length of chamber, more or less .10

In the position of the axis { above axis of the bore .00

of the trunnions { below axis of the bore .20

In the length of trunnions, more or less .05

Diameter of trunnions, less 0.05

In the same gun, no variations to be tolerated in the

position of the trunnions, or in their alignment.

In the vent { diameter more 0.025

{ do. less .000

In lock-piece any dimensions {more .10

{less .00

Variation of position of exterior orifice of vent .05

Idem of interior do. do. .20

Depth of cavities { in the bore or vent .00

{ on exterior surface of reinforces,

{ where turned or planed .10

{ elsewhere, where turned or planed .25

{ on trunnions, within one inch of rimbases .10

{ on trunnions, elsewhere .25

Enlargement or indentation of bore by proof, not to exceed .02

The measures are to be taken by scales corresponding with the standard

measures of the United States.

If two or more cavities should be near each other on the exterior, the

gun may be rejected, though the cavities should be of less depth than

tolerated in the table.

If the trunnions are placed within the limits of toleration, the

preponderance must not vary more than 5 per cent., more or less, from

that fixed in the contract.

POWDER-PROOF.

31. The proof-charges shall be as follows:

----------------------------------+-------+------------------+------+------+

| OF | | | OF |

----------------------------------+-------+------------------+------+------+

{| 35 |Shell 330 lbs.| | 3 |

XV-inch 43,000 lbs.{| 45 |Shell 330 lbs.| | 3 |

{| 55 |Cored sh. 400 lbs.| | 3 |

| | | | |

XI-inch 16,000 lbs.{| 25 |Solid shot |Gromet| 1 |

{| 15 |Shell | | 10 |

| | | | |

X-inch 12,500 lbs.{| 18 |Solid shot |Gromet| 1 |

{| 12 |Shell | | 10 |

| | | | |

IX-inch 9,000 lbs.{| 15 |Solid shot |Gromet| 1 |

{| 10 |Shell | | 10 |

| | | | |

8-inch of 63 cwt., or 7,000 lbs.{| 12 |Shot |Gromet| 1 |

{| 10 |Shell | | 10 |

| | | | |

8-inch of 6,500 lbs.{| 10 |Shot |Gromet| 1 |

| | | | |

8-inch of 55 cwt., or 6,000 lbs.{| 10 |Shot | | 1 |

{| 8 |Shell | | 10 |

| | | | |

32-pdr. of 4,500 lbs. | 8 |Shot | | 10 |

----------------------------------+-------+------------------+------+------+

16,000 lbs.| 30 |1 Shot |Gromet| 10 |

12,000 lbs.| 20 | do. | do. | 10 |

6,400 lbs.| 15 | do. | do. | 10 |

5,700 lbs.| 13 | do. | do. | 10 |

4,700 lbs.| 10 | do. | do. | 10 |

3,600 lbs.| 10 | do. | do. | 10 |

3,000 lbs.| 9 | do. | do. | 10 |

----------------------------------+-------+------------------+------+------+

The cannon-powder for proof shall be of not less than 1,500 feet

initial velocity, as determined by the gun-pendulum at the Ordnance

Yard, Washington.

It shall be filled in service cylinders, and well settled.

For chambered pieces the increased charges should fill the chamber and

necessary portion of the bore.

The projectiles shall be of full weight, and not below the mean gauge;

the shells shall be filled with a mixture of sand and ashes, to bring

them up to the proper weight of the filled shell.

Sabots for the shell and a gromet wad over the shot.

The gun should be fired on skids or a proving-carriage, to test the

trunnions.

If five per cent. out of any lot offered for ordinary proof under a

contract shall fail to sustain it, the whole may be rejected, as may

be stipulated in the contract.

WATER-PROOF.

32. The pressure to be applied in the water-proof will be two

atmospheres, or thirty pounds to the square inch.

The penetration of water in this proof through the metal of the piece,

in any place, will cause the rejection of the gun; and if, on

examination after the water-proof, there shall be any defects

indicated by weeping or dampness in the bore, the gun shall be

rejected.

The water-proof is alone to be depended on to detect minute clusters

of cavities in the bore, which for this purpose should be perfectly

dry, and examined by sunlight. All inspections, consequently, should

take place in fair weather, and when the temperature is above the

freezing-point.

MARKING GUNS.

33. Guns for the naval service, received by authority of the Bureau of

Ordnance, are to be marked in the following manner, viz.:

On the cylinder, in the line of sight near the sight-mass, all

accepted guns are to have stamped an anchor two inches long.

Drawings of these stamps will be furnished by the Bureau of Ordnance.

On the base ring or line, the initials of the foundry, the register

number, and the weight of gun in pounds.

On the right trunnion, the calibre and year of fabrication.

On the left trunnion, the letter P. and the initials of the inspecting

officer; all the above in one-inch letters.

On the upper jaw of the cascabel, the preponderance in pounds to be

stamped lightly with half-inch figures.

On the end of the upper jaw, the cascabel block and head of the pin,

the foundry number in quarter-inch figures.

The foundry number is also to be marked on the right rimbase.

Guns rejected for imperfections of any kind will have the letter C.

stamped on the anchor, so as to partially obliterate it.

The founders are to be dissuaded from selling such guns to other

parties, and required to break them up.

Ordnance Instructions for the United States Navy. 1866. Fourth edition. · 第 8 / 12 章