From the CSS Alabama Association.
The Alabama's pivot Blakely, the 100-pdr. was so light that it became overheated after a few rounds, causing the charge to have to be reduced. Another problem was a tremendous recoil. essentially, after a few rounds, it would be of little use in a prolonged engagement. Probably one of the problems when the ship faces a real warship like the USS Kearsarge.
From the Patriot Files.
The 100-pdr was recovered from the wreck June 29, 1995, and it was found to be loaded. On March 10, 1995, the shell was carefully defused by French explosive experts. The percussion-type fuse was unscrewed and removed without difficulty using a specially-made tool for just that purpose. The black powder inside the shell was found to be perfectly dry and ready to do its duty had there been a spark.
Attempts were made three months later to remove the shell.
Currently, the gun is undergoing conservation in Cannes, France.
The Alabama mounted eight cannons, six of which were of Blakely patent.
Two of the cannons were of Royal Navy style. Four of the 32-pdrs were Blakelys. Of course, so was the 7-inch, 100-pdr pivot. There was also a 68-pdr smoothbore gun.
One of the 32-pdrs had a percussion lock mechanism and stamped on the top of gun are the words "Fawcett Preston & Co., Liverpool 1862." Blakely made similar-type guns for Confederate ships and forts.
So, That's a Blakely. --Old B-Runner
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