Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 40:32-41:10

Choosing the battery for a 74- or 84-gun ship of the line

The preferred mix is 36-, 24- and 12-pounders, with 32-pounders accepted in place of the heaviest guns and long nines for chasing.

Age Of SailNaval GunneryRoyal NavyShip DesignShips of the Line
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Question

What gun battery would best suit a 74- or 84-gun ship of the line?

Short answer

Choose 36-, 24- and 12-pounders, or accept 32-, 24- and 12-pounders, with long nine-pounders as chase guns.

Notes

The preferred battery is 36-pounders, 24-pounders and 12-pounders distributed across the ship's decks. A 32-, 24- and 12-pounder arrangement is an acceptable alternative. Long nine-pounders would also be carried as chase guns. A detailed design calculation for this preferred armament is not supplied.