Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 32:10-32:23

Could USS Gearing defeat HMS Victory without torpedoes?

Gearing's modern guns and high-explosive shells are expected to decide the counterfactual fight from beyond Victory's range.

High Explosive ShellsHMS VictoryNaval GunneryShips of the LineUSS Gearing
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Question

Who would win between USS Gearing and HMS Victory without torpedoes, and how long would it take?

Short answer

With high-explosive ammunition, Gearing could stay outside Victory's range and destroy her with a few hits, especially if it struck the powder.

Notes

The hypothetical fight excludes torpedoes. With modern guns and high-explosive shells, Gearing could remain beyond Victory's effective range and bombard the sailing ship. Only a few hits are expected to be needed, especially if a shell reaches the powder.