PROMOUVOIR, Fr. to promote.
PROMU, Fr. promoted.
PROOF, in arithmetic, an operation whereby the truth and justness of a calculation are examined and ascertained.
PROOF of artillery and small arms, is a trial whether they will stand the quantity of powder allotted for that purpose.
The British government allow 11 bullets of lead in the pound for the proof of musquets, and 29 in two pounds, for service; 17 in the pound for the proof of carabines, and 20 for service; 28 in the pound for the proof of pistols, and 34 for service.
When guns of a new metal, or of lighter construction, are proved, then besides the common proof, they are fired 2 or 300 times, as quick as they can be, loaded with the common charge given in actual service. British light 6 pounders were fired 300 times in three hours, 27 minutes, loaded with 1lb. 4oz. without receiving any damage.
Proof of ordnance. All natures of ordnance undergo several kinds of proof before they are received into the British service; viz. 1st, they are guaged as to their several dimensions, internal and external, as to the justness of the position of the bore, the chamber, the vent, the trunnions, &c.
2d, They are fired with a regulated charge of powder and shot, and afterwards searched to discover irregularities or holes produced by the firing.
3d, By means of engines an endeavor is made to force water through them; and,
4th, They are examined internally, by means of light reflected from a mirror.