2.6-inch Wiard Lead Canister

Federal

Canister

DIAMETER: 2.55 inches
GUN: 6-pounder Wiard rifle, 2.6-inch caliber
LENGTH: 5 13/16 inches
WEIGHT: 5 pounds 15 ounces
CONSTRUCTION: Canister
SABOT: Lead cup
FUZING: None

This excavated example was intended for use in the 6-pounder, 2.6-inch caliber Wiard rifle. Specimens have been recovered at Shiloh, Tennessee. It has a thick lead base that is both recessed and concave. The sides are made of a thin lead sheeting. It contains rows of lead balls packed in sawdust, with a thin tin top crimped in place. Similar specimens are found in 3.67-inch and 3.8-inch caliber. On the base of the 3.67-inch lead canister, the word "BASE" appears in raised letters on the lead bottom. On the base of the 3.8-inch canister, the word "BASE 3.8" is in raised letters on the concave bottom. Federal government contracts show purchases of 2.6-inch canister from Hotchkiss & Sons. Standard canister are found with iron or lead balls stacked in tiers; the interstices are then filled with dry, sifted sawdust which is packed with a pointed stick so that the balls will hold by themselves.