Confederate

Archer

 

DIAMETER:  2.94 inches
GUN:  3-inch rifle
LENGTH:  5 11/16 inches
WEIGHT:  7 pounds 4 ounces
CONSTRUCTION:  Solid shot
SABOT:  Lead band
FUZING:  None
Archer projectiles are named after Dr. Junius L. Archer, owner of the Bellona Foundry, which was located in Virginia. This projectile has two deep grooves on a tapered cone to help hold the lead sabot in during firing. The majority of the fired Archer projectiles are found with the lead sabot missing. In the space between the lead band and the projectile body was a lubricated hemp rope. During firing this hemp rope was forced into the grooves of the cannon when the lead sabot expanded. The lubricant reduced friction and subsequent wear on the cannon. Similar specimens have been found in 3.3-inch caliber.