Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:45:32-1:46:03

Eight 16.5-inch guns offer the stronger heavy-battery choice

On a 41,000-ton battleship, the heavier eight-gun battery gains range and striking power while twelve 15-inch guns remain an attractive volume-of-fire alternative.

15-inch Guns16.5-inch GunsBattleshipsCapital ShipsNaval GunneryWarship Design
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Question

Would a 41,000-ton battleship be better with twelve 15-inch guns or eight 16.5-inch guns?

Short answer

Eight 16.5-inch guns are preferred for their probable range and heavier hits, although twelve 15-inch guns remain attractive.

Notes

The comparison assumes a 41,000-ton battleship and 50-calibre barrels for both alternatives. Eight 16.5-inch guns are preferred because they would probably offer slightly greater range and heavier hits. Twelve 15-inch guns remain an attractive alternative. The preference is qualified rather than a claim that the smaller-calibre battery would be ineffective.