By Jack W. Melton Jr.
Zinc time fuse adapter Paper time fuse
Tin connecting cylinder
Sulphur matrix Lead case shot balls Powder train tube
Bursting cavity tin cylinder
Note the difference in the nose and base thicknesses between these two crosssectioned Parrott projectiles. Notches in sabot Wroughtiron sabot Diameter: 2.86 inches Bore Diameter: 2.90 inches Gun: 10-pounder Parrott Rifle, M1861 Length: 8.50 inches Weight: 9.6 pounds
Construction: Case shot Fusing System: Time, Parrott Fusing Material: Zinc Fuse Threads Diameter: 1.12 inches Fuse Hole Length: 1.31 inches
Sabot: Ring, wrought iron, Type I Wall Thickness: .43 inches Matrix Material: Sulphur Case Shot Material: Lead Case Shot Diameter: .69 caliber
A tin bursting charge cylinder was inserted into the shell through the fuse hole, the lead case shot loaded around the bursting can and a hot, liquefied matrix poured into the cavity. The paper time fuse has been driven down into the shell from impact. There are chisel notches in the wrought-iron sabot that help bond the sabot to the cast-iron shell body in order to prevent slippage when fired. Federal Ordnance records state that 51,130 10-pounder Parrott case shot projectiles were purchased for a total cost of $106,248.20*. * Message of the President of the United States and Accompanying Documents, To the Two Houses of Congress, at The Commencement of the Second Session of the Thirty-Ninth Congress. Washington. Government Printing Office, 1866. Page 662. 12
The Artilleryman