436. To the Shell and Powder Division is assigned the most laborious and difficult of all the duties—that of keeping up a supply of projectiles.
437. It is therefore necessary to have it strongly manned, and a system of frequent reliefs for all the important stations, particularly in the magazine and shell-locker.
438. There are required three gangs of four each for the passage of projectiles: one to whip them out of the hold, or shell-room; a second to pass them to the door of the turret-chamber; and a third to pass them to the scuttle and adjust them in the bearer. When working with half-crews, the third gang assists at the shell-whip, the fall being dropped down to them.
439. The XV-in. passing-box requires two men to carry it to the turret-chamber.
440. The allowance of projectiles can only be determined by the character of the service expected, and the stowage capacity of the vessel, which is limited to about 150 rounds per gun for sea-service.
441. By reason of the contracted space in these vessels, all shell should be filled, and all powder must be made up into cartridges.
442. All XV-in. shell shall be fitted with three fuze-holes, and issued for service fuzed with 3 1/2, 5, and 7 seconds fuzes.
443. When the distance of the object is known to be less than the range of the shortest fuze, and time will admit of doing so, uncap all the fuzes. At other times uncap the fuze suited to the distance, and the one of longest time of burning.
D. Van Nostrand Publisher. Julius Bien, pr.