Gunnery in 1858: Being a Treatise on Rifles, Cannon, and Sporting Arms Explaining the Principles of the Science of Gunnery, and Describing the Newest Improvements in Fire-Arms

"Gunnery in 1858: Being a Treatise on Rifles, Cannon, and Sporting Arms" by Greener is a scientific publication written in the mid-19th century. The work explores the principles of gunnery, discussing the advancements and techniques related to firearms and artillery of that era. The author aims to convey practical knowledge while critiquing existing systems, urging for a scientifically sound approach to improve weaponry efficiency and effectiveness. The opening of this treatise sets the stage by emphasizing the historical context of arms development from ancient times to the then-current state of gunnery. It points out the evolution of weaponry, from bows and arrows to firearms, illustrating the relentless evolution driven by necessity and competition among nations. Greener criticizes past Government reluctance to innovate in military armaments and advocates for a thorough understanding of the scientific principles behind modern firearms, discussing the need for practical improvements, better materials, and the importance of understanding gunpowder composition. The passage lays the groundwork for a detailed examination of mechanics and science related to gunnery, suggesting that comprehensive innovation in this field is crucial for national defense. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Greener (1806–1869) was an English inventor and gunmaker. He developed a self-expanding bullet in 1835, an electric lamp in 1846 some 33 years before Thomas Edison's patent in 1879. William Greener also invented the percussion system for firing cannon, made improvements to the miner's safety lamp and won a prize for designing a mechanical device by which four gates at railway/road level crossings could be opened or closed simultaneously. He also invented a self-righting lifeboat, which was exhibited with a rocket gun and several of his famous percussion muzzle-loading shotguns and rifles at the Great Exhibition of 1851, where he was awarded a gold medal.