Yes; in cannon fired horizontally, or under very small angles, the portion in rear of the trunnions is heavier than that in front; an arrangement which increases the pressure of the trail on the ground so as to diminish the recoil. But in pieces fired under large angles, the trunnions are placed in rear of the center of gravity, for the purpose of increasing the ease of pointing.
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PART VII.
WINDAGE.
1. What is meant by windage?
The difference between the diameter of the projectile and that of the bore.
2. Is it absolutely necessary to allow windage?
Yes, in order to make an allowance for a piece becoming foul, the expansion of shot by heat, the incrustation of rust, and for the tin straps of fixed ammunition.
3. What advantages are derived from reducing the windage?
An increase in the accuracy of fire; a more extensive range, or an equal range with a smaller charge, as there is less loss of gas; and less injury to the surface of the bore.
4. Why should the bore suffer less injury by a diminution of the windage?