Impressment happened and could become urgent when a new fleet had to be manned. The argument here is that dramatic violence became memorable partly because it was exceptional and counterproductive. A sailor injured by a recruiting party was of little use aboard ship, while the people doing the recruiting might later become his shipmates. Threats and coercion could be used, especially during an emergency closure of a sailors' pub, but the desired outcome was a usable crew rather than punishment. The press service operated under officers, which differs from the vague cinematic image of free-floating gangs.
Chapter · 42:06-46:37
Emergency press gangs and the limits of force
In a crisis the press service could intensify sharply, although serious violence worked against its military purpose.