Q&A · 2:46:34-2:46:56

The practical limit on naval shell size

Materials define the theoretical boundary, but ammunition handling and useful rate of fire impose the real design limit.

Question

What sets the upper limit on the size and weight of a naval shell?

Short answer

Metallurgy sets the theoretical limit, while shell handling and rate of fire set the practical one.

Notes

A larger breech and propellant charge can be engineered only as far as contemporary metallurgy permits. Before that absolute boundary, shell weight slows movement through magazines, hoists, and turrets until combat performance suffers.