9‑pounder Gun (1702-1714)

Object name: 9-pounder Smooth Bore Muzzle Loading Gun
Country: England
Date made: 1702–1714
Material: Cast iron
Loading type: Muzzle loading More information
Bore type: Smooth bore More information
Projectile: Solid iron ball weighing 9 pounds (about 4kg)

Purpose and use - This type of gun was designed to hit what it was aimed at, not to fire in a high arc. It was used on ships and in forts, where strong impact mattered more than accuracy.

How it was used - The gun originally sat on a wooden carriage. After firing, it recoiled violently backwards. The crew had to pull it back into place before firing again.

Iron cannon design - The gun is made from cast iron and formed in one solid piece. This made it tough and reliable, even after repeated firing. The five raised rings along the barrel reinforce it against the force of firing.

Foundry mark - Foundry letters were often reused by different makers. Because of this, we do not know which foundry used this mark at the time.

View the full object record (XIX.794)