The value is variable according to the market price. Average from £14 to £16 per ton, according to the nature of the ordnance, the higher price being the value of the smaller pieces.
PROOF OF ORDNANCE.
All natures of Ordnance undergo several kinds of proof before they are received into the service:—
1st. They are gauged as to their several dimensions, internal and external; as to the justness and position of the bore, the chamber, vent, and trunnions, &c.
2nd. They are fired with a regulated charge of powder and shot, being afterwards searched to discover irregularities, or holes produced by the firing.
3rd. By means of engines, an endeavour is made to force water through them.
4th. They are examined internally by means of light, reflected from a mirror.
IRON GUNS.
The guns are first examined as to their proper dimensions, in which no more than ·3 of an inch variation is allowed; and in the diameters of the bore only ·033 from 42 to 18 pounders, and ·025 from 12 to 6 pounders; but in the position of the bore ·5 of an inch out of the axis of a piece from a 42 to an 18 pounder, and ·334 of an inch from a 12 to a 6 pounder is allowed.