This non-excavated
specimen is referred to as a stand of grape. The Federal forces discontinued the
12-pounder stand of grape prior to 1861 and replaced it with canister. The shot used in
canisters were large enough to be effective, and the canister balls possessed the
advantage of striking a great many more points on impact than grape. When
fired, the center bolt would break free, sending nine iron grape shot, two
rings, and two plates flying at their intended target. Stands of grape are
also found in the following field calibers: 18-pounder (5.3-inch caliber), and 24-pounder
(5.82-inch caliber). Note the crude mold seams on the iron balls which point to
Confederate manufacture. Three complete 12-pounder stands were recovered from Vicksburg,
Mississippi. Complete excavated specimens are extremely rare.
