To all Interested,
The James Type I Projectile
A challenge to the pattern maker and to the molder, The James Type I projectile of the American Civil War was surely a unique piece of ordnance in the Federal arsenal. Patented by Charles T. James, his death would eventually be caused by the detonation of one of these shells.
I have marveled at the projectile’s complexity when compared to the rest of the projectiles in use by the Federal artillerist. The most interesting part of the shell’s design is its method of rotation and propellant gas check. This is achieved by a sandwich of canvas, tin and lead sleeves that surround the back half portion of the shell body.
I have pondered over the following questions concerning the casting of the inner most lead sleeve and solicit your thoughts, opinions or facts:
1. What design was used to form a reservoir for the molten lead being poured into the four (4) entry holes at the shell base; see the lead filled holes at figure 1?
2. Was the tin sleeve used to form the outer form for the poured lead sleeve?
3. What was used to keep the molten lead from escaping into the eight slots of the “cage”?
When adding your thoughts on these questions please use my reference numbers in reply. Thanks.
Kind Regards,
John