Encyclopedia · Cannon and weapon systems

30-pounder Parrott rifle

The 30-pounder Parrott rifle was a siege and heavy field rifle of 4.2-inch bore, larger than the field Parrotts. It gave long range and accuracy against works and batteries.

Also known as: 4.2-inch Parrott.

TypeCast-iron rifled gun with wrought-iron band
Bore4.2 inches
ProjectileAbout 30 pounds
RoleSiege and heavy field

Siege Parrott

The 30-pounder Parrott rifle, of 4.2-inch bore, sat above the field Parrotts in size and was used in siege trains and heavy positions. Firing a shell of about thirty pounds, it reached far and struck accurately, making it valuable against fortifications and for counter-battery work.

Built like the other Parrotts of cast iron with a wrought-iron breech band, it shared their economy and their occasional failures, and it served on both sides through the siege operations of the war.

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