Existing comment:
(Cannon cutaway):
This cutaway model demonstrates how cannon are fired. The gunlock mechanism uses a flint to produce a spark that ignites priming powder in the flashpan and vent. This in turn ignites the main charge -- three pounds of power for a nine pound gun. The explosion forces the shot out of the barrel and towards the target. Wadding secures the shot in place and increases the force of the discharge. It contains the expanding gas of the black powder charge, and directs most of the energy generated into propelling the shot forward. |