The field-carriages are of two types, both of iron. That for the muzzle-loader consists of a single bar to which the axle is bolted and stayed. To its lower end is bolted an iron box for a trail-wheel and a socket for a directing handspike. A small seat for the elevating-screw is bolted at its middle on top, and at the forward end is a light iron frame for holding two ammunition-boxes. The field-carriage for the breech-loader consists of two plate-iron brackets connected by the axle and three transoms. The lower part expands into a box for the trail-wheel, and the end is finished in a loop for a drag-rope. At the forward end is a lug for attaching a caisson, and a frame on the axle outside of the brackets on each side for ammunition-boxes. The elevating-screw works in a pivoting screw-box. It will be noticed that the breech-loader has trunnions, while the muzzle-loader has only a lug, making the forward ends of the two carriages different in construction.
Iron Field-Carriage for Muzzle-Loaders.
Broadside Marsilly Carriage.
The Marsilly or rear-chock carriage is the type used with the broadside smooth-bore guns. It consists of two plate-iron brackets with a transom across the front ends and a bed-plate in the rear, giving a support for the elevating-screw, and being provided with two brass friction-shoes resting directly on deck. Holes are cut in the brackets to lighten them. A wooden breast-sweep is bolted to the transom, and there are four bolts for hooking tackles, one at each end and one at the rear of each bracket. This carriage differs from European ones in the point of not having the breeching attached to it; the latter is secured to the gun.
Broadside Directing-Bar Carriage.
Broadside Marsilly Carriage. (Elevation.)
