Q&A · 2:57:30-2:57:37

Why did the Kearsarge and Virginia classes retain double-decker turrets?

Loading practices were one reason for retaining the double-decker arrangements.

Gun Turrets Kearsarge Class Battleships Naval Gunnery Virginia Class Battleships

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Question

Why did the Kearsarge and Virginia classes keep their double-decker turrets when removing them could reduce top hamper?

Short answer

Loading practices were one reason for retaining them.

Notes

Loading practices were one reason for retaining the double-decker turrets. The question raises reducing top hamper as an alternative, but the loading explanation receives no further technical detail.