Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:07:59-2:08:16

Why the 15-inch gun was more practical than the 18-inch

The 18-inch gun offered greater shell power but imposed very heavy turrets and structural stresses that made the 15-inch weapon easier to use in a balanced ship.

15-inch Guns18-inch GunsNaval ArtilleryRoyal NavyWarship Design
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Question

Should a large British capital ship have used 18-inch rather than 15-inch guns?

Short answer

No; the 15-inch gun offered a better balance because 18-inch turrets were much heavier and imposed greater structural stress.

Notes

The 15-inch weapon offered a better balance than an 18-inch main battery. The larger gun required extremely heavy turrets and placed greater stress on the hull and supporting structure. Those penalties consumed weight that could otherwise support protection, machinery, ammunition, or endurance. The most powerful available weapon was therefore not automatically the best choice for an effective capital ship.