A Short Comparison of Cannons VS Carronades

Carronades and cannons were both vital artillery pieces in the 18^th century, but they were designed for different purposes, especially when it came to range and impact.

Carronades were direct-fire, short-barrelled guns known for their devastating power at close range. Due to their shorter barrels and reduced gunpowder charges, carronades had a significantly shorter range. However, they were also much lighter than cannons firing the same-sized shot, making them easier to mount on smaller vessels or in upper decks.

In contrast, long guns or cannons were traditional, full-length artillery pieces capable of firing solid shot over distances of 1,000 yards or more. Their extended range made them suitable for line-of-battle engagements, where ships exchanged broadsides from a distance. However, their considerable weight and size meant that only larger ships could carry them in significant numbers.

The Naval Gunner, a period manual containing accurate methods of disparting ordnance and official gunnery tables, offers clear evidence of these differences:

Carronades – Dimensions and Ranges

Iron Ordnance on Sea Service Carriages

Conclusion

This comparison illustrates the stark differences in performance between carronades and cannons. Carronades were ideal for close-range action, where quick and powerful broadsides could devastate enemy decks and hulls. Cannons, on the other hand, were necessary for long-range duels, fleet actions, and engagements requiring sustained fire over thousands of yards.