The earliest first rates were powerful in nearby fleet battles but lacked the endurance expected of later ships of the line. Their limited stores could force fleets to provide almost dedicated supply ships for food and other necessities. Heavy artillery left little margin for mistakes in stability and freeboard, making lower gun ports hazardous when a ship heeled. The loss of Royal George shows why firepower, supply capacity, and seaworthiness had to develop together.
Notable Point · 5:22-7:07
Early first rates needed supply support and careful stability
Early first rates were formidable near their bases but lacked stores for long voyages and could become dangerously unstable under their artillery weight.