Encyclopedia · Cannon and weapon systems

Williams gun

The Williams gun was a Confederate breech-loading, hand-cranked rapid-fire gun, a 1-pounder that fired quickly by turning a crank. It was first used in 1862.

Also known as: Williams rapid-fire gun.

TypeConfederate breech-loading rapid-fire gun
CaliberA 1-pounder
OperationHand crank
First used1862

A Confederate rapid-fire gun

The Williams gun was a Confederate rapid-fire gun, a small breech-loading 1-pounder worked by a hand crank that opened the breech, loaded, and fired in quick succession. It gave a rate of fire well above that of an ordinary gun.

First used in 1862, a number of Williams guns were made and issued in Confederate service, one of the several attempts of the war to develop a workable rapid-fire gun.

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