Leander was a 50-gun fourth rate carrying 24-pounder and 12-pounder guns in roughly equal numbers. The nominal gun total concealed the effect of that mixed battery on her weight of shot. Some fifth rates could throw more weight despite their lower rating. Comparing fighting power therefore required attention to the guns themselves as well as the ship's rating.
Notable Point · 1:32:20-1:33:09
Leander's 50 guns did not guarantee a heavier broadside
Leander's mixed 24-pounder and 12-pounder battery shows why nominal gun count and rating did not fully describe a ship's weight of shot.