The Royal Navy's move toward 18-pounder frigates changed more than hull size. Captains had to choose between long-range hitting power and the heavier short-range broadside offered by carronades. Smaller 32-gun versions also widened the range of yards that could build the type, while 38-gun ships demanded more specialized industrial capacity. Official ratings could understate the real armament because carronades were often left out of the nominal count.
Notable Point · 1:08:16-1:14:58
18-pounder frigates and carronade tradeoffs
The Royal Navy's 18-pounder frigates balanced long-range guns, short-range carronades, industrial capacity, and rating conventions.