234. This worm consists of a screw, 1 1/4 inch in diameter, of two turns, at the end of a cylindrical iron shank, with a socket and straps riveted to the staff, which is 1.5 inch in diameter. The worm is supported in the axis of the bore by means of a guide-ring of composition, kept in place on the shank, six inches from the end, by a shoulder and forelock.
Thus adjusted, it is used to draw the junk-wad and cartridge; the latter being laid hold of by the tie, if the staff be held in the axis of the bore, is uninjured.
When the ring is removed the worm will be equally efficient in drawing the selvagee wad.
LADLES.
235. Ladles, when required, are to be made according to the patterns sent to each of the Navy Yards. Ladles which may be on hand are to be tried in drawing projectiles from the guns before they are issued for service. The Ladle will not draw rifle projectiles, and should not be used for that purpose.
SCRAPERS FOR BOTTOM OF BORE.
236. These consist of two steel blades, crossing each other in the middle, and having their edges conformed to the curve of the bottom of the bore. They are inserted in a sponge-bead, and are designed to remove the cake usually caused by the adherence of the bottoms of the cylinders to the bottom of the bore.
The edges of the scrapers are so bevelled as to act only when turned to the right, or with the sun.
Scrapers are also to be supplied for rifled cannon, made to clean a groove and the adjacent lands.
ORDINARY HANDSPIKES.