US Naval Academy cannon construction

Special "4 pounder", 4 gauge bronze barreled  cannon that is lanyard fired.



Thumbnail images - click to see larger

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Barrel just cast at foundry and after machining & polishing

Naval bronze alloy

Barrel = 48 inches

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Insignia on cast barrel before & after polishing		 n5.JPG (73110 bytes)

Carriage assembly 

White oak
Authentic detail & construction
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Alignment		 n9.JPG (70475 bytes)
Close tolerance wheel turning.
Oak wheels were inserted in steel rims.		 n10.JPG (72201 bytes)
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Finished cannon
Close-up of breech

550 lbs

 

Trunnion diameter = 2 inches, caps made from welded steel
Connecting rods = steel
Axels = 1.5 inch cold rolled steel
Wheels = Solid Oak, recessed into 1/4 inch steel rims - Full bearings
Firing mechanism = Machined brass, chambered for 4 gauge (500 grains ffg BP)
Construction time = 3 weeks

Home page: www.cannon-mania.com