3-034-812 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Section of Captain Scott's turret gun-carriage in the Glatton, 1871. 'These guns are each rifled with nine grooves, and throw projectiles with studs as bearings to run in the grooves, which give the rotation that enables these long bolts, weighing from 400 lb. to 600 lb., to attain great range and accuracy... The captain of the gun is shown in the act of pointing his weapon, which is laid by means of sights placed on the top of the turret, and corresponding with the line of the bore of the gun...the Glatton's recent trip to the Nore was arranged for the purpose of testing her gun-carriages...These stood the severe tests they were subjected to in the most satisfactory manner, and the vessel bore the concussion of both guns fired simultaneously without showing any signs of weakness...The success of the trial was so complete that the dummies standing on the light decks were not disturbed, and the effect of the blast below resembled only a slight rush of wind. The Controller of the Navy and the other officials who witnessed the trial returned to Sheerness much gratified with the behaviour of the ship, as well as quite satisfied with the gun-carriages, which they went out more especially to try'. From "Illustrated London News", 1871.