Galbraith cannon

Philip · 20th April 2016, 07:12 AM

If this was made as a starting-gun for yacht racing, why is the elevation adjustable to 3 settings? One would think this feature superfluous on device that would essentially be a noisemaker. Throwing life-lines is a more plausible function, the flaring muzzle is not a common feature but might make loading the cannon easier on a rocking boat in stormy seas.

Rick · 20th April 2016, 04:54 PM

The Lyle gun was employed from shore by the Livesaving Service here in the US. I'm unaware of them being used on board a vessel; I suppose it could be used that way.
The most difficult part of employing the device was the proper faking down of the messenger line. If this was not done properly the shot would fall short and the line would have to be faked down again properly, which is time consuming.
Pictured a Lyle gun display and a picture of the faking board.

corrado26 · 21st April 2016, 11:24 AM

Very interesting!! Thanks a lot.
corrado26

20th April 2016, 04:54 PM	#2
Rick Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Nov 2004 Posts: 6,365	The Lyle gun was employed from shore by the Livesaving Service here in the US. I'm unaware of them being used on board a vessel; I suppose it could be used that way. The most difficult part of employing the device was the proper faking down of the messenger line. If this was not done properly the shot would fall short and the line would have to be faked down again properly, which is time consuming. Pictured a Lyle gun display and a picture of the faking board. Attached Images Last edited by Rick; 20th April 2016 at 06:38 PM.

20th April 2016, 07:12 AM	#1
Philip Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: California Posts: 1,036	If this was made as a starting-gun for yacht racing, why is the elevation adjustable to 3 settings? One would think this feature superfluous on device that would essentially be a noisemaker. Throwing life-lines is a more plausible function, the flaring muzzle is not a common feature but might make loading the cannon easier on a rocking boat in stormy seas.

21st April 2016, 11:24 AM	#3
corrado26 Member Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: Black Forest, Germany Posts: 1,239	Very interesting!! Thanks a lot. corrado26