The procedures and commands presented below are recommended and endorsed by the National Civil War Artillery Association, in the preparation of the gun crew at the limber prior to posting on the gun. All commands are CAPITALIZED while descriptions of the action are in normal print. When specific cannoneers are involved in the action, the individuals illustrated are darkened.

Position A: With gun and limber previously placed, the Gunner or Chief-of-the-piece has moved the gun crew (detachment) into position to begin the manning of the piece. The detachment is at rest. The command of the detachment has been relinquished to the Gunner. The Gunner initiates the preparation sequence.

Gunner orders: DETACHMENT, ATTENTION POST ON THE LIMBER, MARCH.
(Gun crew advances to Position B)

Position B: Numbers 1 and 2 locate themselves near the outside rear of the right and left limber wheels followed by 3, 4, and 5. The Gunner advances to a position between the limber and gun, and then faces the limber Numbers 6 and 7 locate themselves close to the rear of the limber chest. Number 6 unlocks the chest assisted by 7 who holds open and closes the chest as necessary. Number 8 locates himself so that he may observe the implement exchange and the activities of the spectators. Number 6 takes charge of the gun crew. The Chief-of-the-Piece observes from a convenient position.

Number 6 issues gauntlets to numbers 1 and 2, when the exchange is completed. Number 6 orders the detachment to advance.

Number 6 orders: DETACHMENT, ONE STEP FORWARD, MARCH
(Gun crew advances to Position C)

Position C: Numbers 1 through 5 move forward one step:

Number 6 issues a tube pouch (for the primers) and a lanyard to Number 4, Number 7 issues a second tube pouch, thumbstall, priming wire (vent prick), gimlet, and vent brush to Number 3. Numbers 5 and 7 assist Number 3 with the thumbstall and pouch adjustments. When the exchange is completed, Number 6 orders the detachment to advance.

(Gun crew advances to Position D)

 

Position D: Numbers 1 through 5 move forward one step. Number 5 stands next to Number 7.

Number 6 issues the cartridge haversack to Number 5. When the exchange is completed, Number 6 orders the chest cover closed.
Number 7 closes the cover. Number 6 informs the Gunner that all exchanges have been accomplished.

Number 6 reports: EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN DISTRIBUTED

Satisfied that the crew has been properly outfitted, the Gunner takes command and moves the crew to the gun.

Gunner orders: DETACHMENT, ATTENTION POST ON THE GUN, MARCH
(Gun crew advances to Position E)

Position E: Numbers 1 and 3 advance to the right side of the gun, Numbers 2 and 4 to the left side. Numbers 1 and 2 locate themselves outside the gun wheels near the front edge of the wheel. Numbers 3 and 4 locate themselves outside the gun wheel aligned opposite the cascabel. Number 5 locates himself near the front of the Limber pole. Number 1 through 4 and 6 and 7 will perform their duties of serving the gun from these positions. The Gunner and Number 5 will move about as necessary between the gun and the limber Number 8 will move as required to ensure the safety of the ammunition chest and the spectators.

When each of the crew is in position, the Gunner will direct the loading of the piece. The Gunner will order the further preparation of the gun and its service by the crew. The Chief-of-the-Piece monitors the drill from a convenient position, observes the activities of the spectators and relays the orders of the Section Officer to the Gunner and the cannoneers.

Below are the commands and procedures recommended and endorsed by the National Civil War Artillery Association in the loading of artillery pieces. All verbal commands and responses are CAPITALIZED while all actions are in normal print. When specific can noneers are involved in an action, the individuals illustrated are darkened.

This sequence of activities (steps) commences after the detachment has been marched into position and posted as in Position E of the Limber Drill. Any activity may be interrupted by the command "Cease", “Halt” or “Stop” and will stop any and all gun activity.  This may be ordered by any cannoneer at anytime. The command "Commence Loading," ordered by the Gunner, reinitiates action.

Gunner orders TAKE IMPLEMENTS
(Cannoneers take up their implements and prepare to respond to additional orders.)

Position A: Number 1 detaches the sponge bucket and positions it on the ground. He takes the wet sponge from its hanger, wets it in the bucket and, keeping the wet sponge in hand, returns to his post (facing forward as described in Position E above). Number 2 takes the dry sponge and the worm from their hangers and, keeping the worm in hand, returns to his post (as described in Position E above). Number 3 uncovers the vent and removes the handspike from its hanger, placing it in the pointing rings at the trail of the piece. The Chief-of-the-Piece informs the Gunner of the firing order, the number of the gun and other information from the Section Officer. When implement acquisition has been completed, Numbers 3 and 4 face front, and the Chief-of-the-Piece returns to a place where he can coordinate the loading and firing sequences.

Satisfied that all implements are in hand, the cannoneers are properly posted, and that the gun has been prepared, the Gunner begins the cleaning steps in the loading sequence.
Gunner orders- ATTENTION DETACHMENT, LOAD BY DETAIL, LOAD
(All cannoneers come to attention for the first step in the loading sequence.)

Position A: Numbers 1 & 2, with their implements in hand, turn inward to face each other.Gunner orders: TEND, VENT
(Number 3 steps well inside the wheel establishing Position B)

Position B: Number 3 cleans the vent using the vent brush. Then Number 3, with the thumbstall on his left thumb, places the thumb-stall over the vent with the fingers to the left side of the gun tube and the elbow elevated to exert downward pressure to shut off the flow of air to the tube. Having accomplished this, Number 3 announces the completion of the step.
Number 3 reports: VENT STOPPED

Satisfied that the vent is properly covered and that no air can escape, the Gunner continues the cleaning steps.
Gunner orders: WORM Position C: Number 2 steps obliquely to the left with the left foot and brings the right foot square therewith and introduces the worm onto the tube. Number 3 keeps the vent stopped. Number 2 runs the worm down the tube seating it at the breach. He turns the worm

two or more times, in order to pick up any debris, which may be in the tube. After turning the worm, number 2 withdraws the worm slowly extracting whatever the worm has picked up. He may re-worm if there is any indication that debris is left in the lube. When the task has been completed, Number 2 returns to his post, announces that the step as been accomplished, places the worm either on its stand or with the head upon the axle and the shaft running toward the front of the gun, parallel to the barrel (Note: for those crews choosing to use a separate implement to "dry sponge" Number 2 would now place the worm down and take the dry sponge).

Number 2 reports: WORMED

Gunner orders: SPONGE (or WET and DRY SPONGE if appropriate)
Number 1 steps obliquely to the right with the right foot and brings the left foot square therewith and places the sponge down the tube pushing it all the way to the breach. Number 1 turns the sponge twice and then withdraws it halfway, where he turns it once, then reseats the sponge to the breach and again turns it twice The sponge is then withdrawn completely and cleared of any debris.
Number 1 reports: WET SPONGED
Number 1 or Number 2 then repeats the entire sponging step, so there will be two distinct sponging steps performed. (Note: a separate dry sponge may be used.) If Number 2 is utilized to complete this process, he steps obliquely to the right with the right foot and brings the left foot square therewith. He runs the sponge down the tube pushing it all the way to the breach. Number 2 turns the sponge twice, and then withdraws it halfway, where he turns it once, then reseats the sponge to the breach and again turns it twice. The sponge is then withdrawn completely and cleared of any debris. Having accomplished the task, Number 2 returns to his post and announces DRY SPONGED. Number 1 then spins the sponge around and taps the underside of the barrel twice with the head of the rammer. He places the rammer on the edge of the muzzle, the rammer staff extending horizontally to the right side of the tube. This signals that sponging is complete and the tube and the crew are ready for the round.
(If Number 1 completes both the wet and dry sponging steps, he will report SPONGED)

Satisfied that the gun tube is clean and that the vent is stopped, the Gunner initiates the loading of the cartridge.

Gunner orders: LOAD, (TYPE OF ROUND), RANGE (xxx) YARDS or, if in a practice situation, LOAD, SIMULATED (or LIVE) CARTRIDGE (This order alerts the cannoneers and specifies the type of cartridge to be prepared and can also add other instructions.)

Number 8 or Number 6 repeats: LOAD (TYPE OF CARTRIDGE) RANGE (xxx) YARDS. The gunner then issues the command to proceed.

Gunner orders: ADVANCE THE CARTRIDGE
(This order starts a series of actions at both the gun and the limber.)

Position D: Number 5 walks from his post at the end of the limber pole to the limber chest to receive the cartridge. Number 7 opens the chest and holds the cover. Number 6 selects the cartridge and, assisted by Number 7, removes and stores the packaging. Number 6 places the cartridge in the haversack carried by Number 5. Number 7 closes the chest cover. Number 5 advances the cartridge to the Gunner who inspects the content of the haversack, looking for loose powder. All being as specified, Number 5 advances to Number 2 via a route to the outside of Number 4. While Number 5 obtains the cartridge, Number 2 places his implement in its stand (or upon the axle as previously described) and positions himself inside the wheel with his back to the gun tube. Number 5 stations himself outside the wheel opposite Number 2. Number 5 opens the haversack and lifts it so that Number 2 may reach into it to obtain the cartridge. Taking the cartridge, Number 2 turns to his left, counterclockwise, and inserts the cartridge into the muzzle, ensuring that
it is properly placed for the rammer. Number 5 moves to his original post after delivering the cartridge, again traveling on the outside of Number 4.
Number 2 now returns to his original post, takes up the worm and announces that the task has been completed.  (NOTE: In some areas number 2 is expected to place his implement on the hub at this time. This will signal that there is a load in the tube and ready to be seated.)

Number 2 reports: CARTRIDGE ADVANCED

Gunner orders: RAMNumber 1 runs the cartridge down the tube using one hand on the rammer shaft, keeping the thumb uninvolved, with the body behind the muzzle as much as possible.  Simultaneously, Number 1 moves himself toward the axle of the carriage (being careful not to actually contact any part of the gun with his body) and his hand passes underneath the tube. (Note: After seating the round Number 1 should wait about 10 seconds before grasping the ram again. There is always increased danger as the cartridge is pressed against the breech.)  Prior to seating the charge, he withdraws the rammer about 1 foot and gives a final thrust, releasing the rammer as the charge is seated at the breach. Number 1 again thrusts himself toward the axle of the carriage and his hand passes underneath the tube.  After 10 seconds, the rammer is then completely removed, one-handed, thumb uninvolved.  Number 1 then moves to the right wheel axle hub and places the rammer on top of the hub. He holds the rammer shaft upright in his left hand with the sponge slightly forward. This indicates to all that the gun is loaded. It is also acceptable for number 2 to have the worm on the left hub to signal a Round is in the tube.

Number 1 reports: RAMMED

Gunner orders: SIGHT THE PIECE
(The purpose of this action is to allow the Gunner and the Chief-of-the-Piece to determine
that the field of fire is clear of spectators, vehicles, etc.)

Position E: The Gunner advances and stations himself along the left side of the trail, left foot forward, right leg extended alongside the trail. He sights along the tube or, if a slight hand is used, conducts a sighting routine. The Gunner may manipulate the elevating screw. As the Gunner approaches the piece, Number 3 uncovers the vent, steps to his original post, pauses momentarily, and then moves to the handspike. Number 3 may point the gun as indicated by the Gunner who taps on either the left or right side of the trail indicating the desired direction. Being satisfied the field of fire is clear; the Gunner stands, reports “Clear” and returns to his post. Satisfied that the loading is complete and that the area in front of the gun is clear, the gunner initiates the firing sequence.

Below are listed the commands and procedures to be followed by the National Civil War Artillery Association in the firing of artillery pieces. All verbal commands and responses are CAPITALIZED while all actions are in normal print. When specific cannoneers are involved in an action, the individuals illustrated are darkened.

This sequence of activities (steps) commences after the cannoneers have completed the loading sequence and are posted as in Position E of the loading sequence. As stated previously, any of the following activities may be interrupted by the command "Cease, Stop or Halt." "Cease, Stop or Halt" may be ordered by any cannoneer at any time. The command "Commence Firing," ordered by the Gunner reinitiates the action.

Gunner orders: READY or READY THE PIECE
(This command alerts the cannoneers that the firing sequence has begun. Numbers 3 and 4 prime the charge.)

Position A: Numbers 3 and 4 simultaneously step inside the wheels. Number 3, while keeping his face away from the vent, inserts the priming wire holding the shaft or the bow of the wire between his fingers. Number 3 punctures the powder bag and removes the Priming wire. Number 4 hands the friction primer (Hooked or Not) to Number 3 who places it in the vent. Number 4 then hands the hook end of the lanyard to Number 3 (if not hooked previously) and steps outside the wheel (facing forward or back) setting himself in position so that he can see the cannoneer that will give the fire order. Number 4 nods to Number 3 who attaches the lanyard hook to the primer (if not already done). Number 3 may announce: PRIMED. Number 3 then steps outside the right wheel to his original post.

Number 4 reports: PIECE IS READY

Satisfied that the gun and the cannoneers are ready to receive the fire order, the Gunner may issue the "Prepare” command, or if other orders are standing, he may report to the Chief-of-the-Piece or the Section Officer that the piece is prepared to fire. In some units Number 1,2 and 3 come to the PREPARE or FIRING POSITION when Number 4 reports the piece ready. This adds an extra measure of safety if the “Prepare” command is omitted.

Gunner orders: PREPARE or, he may relinquish control of the fire order and report: NUMBER (x) GUN IS PREPARED
(The "Prepare” command is directed to the cannoneers. The "Gun x, Prepare -- ----" report is directed to the Chief-of-the-Piece. When the "Prepare” order is initiated by either the Gunner or, by his proxy, another NCO or Commissioned Officer, the cannoneers respond. (Note: it is important that the Gunner stay involved, if even as an echo to the officer giving the command. This alleviates confusion that may result in a Number 4 picking up the FIRE command from another crew. It is essential that the Number 4 has eye contact with the individual giving the command, and as such, keeping the Gunner involved, no matter what, provides that connection.)

Position B: Number 1 removes the rammer from the hub and steps to his original post where he assumes the position for firing by bending his left knee, placing the shaft of the rammer into the crook of his left elbow and covering his right ear with his right hand. His eyes are on the muzzle of the gun. Number 2, on the opposite side of the gun takes a mirror image position to Number 1. His eyes are on the muzzle of the gun. Number 3 assumes a position for firing similar to Number 1. His eyes are on the vent. Number 4 faces the cannoneer that will give the fire command. The lanyard is extended and taunt. Number 4, holding the handle of the lanyard at knee height, grips the handle in his right or left hand so that the back of the hand is toward the primer with the lanyard protruding between the second and third fingers close to the knuckles. The command to "Fire" or "Cease Fire" order follows immediately after the cannoneers are in the Prepare to Fire Positions.

(If he has relinquished control, the order to "Fire" originates from the same cannoneer as the "Prepare " command.)

Number 4 pulls the lanyard smartly. The gun discharges.

The loading sequence for the next round may now be started. (Note: The sequence is not complete until the vent is tended, the gun wormed and sponged.) A minimum of two minutes will be allowed to elapse between the command of "Fire, "just executed, and the introduction of a load to the bore.
A minimum of three minutes should be allowed to elapse between the “Fire” commands.

If the gun did not discharge or it is perceived that the gun has not fired, any of the cannoneers may call a misfire.

Any cannoneer reports: MISFIRE

Gunner acknowledges: THE PIECE HAS MISFIRED

Gunner orders: DO NOT ADVANCE - THE PRIMER HAS FAILED
(No further attempt is made to service the gun except Numbers 1 and 2 take alternate post.)

Position C: Numbers 1 and 2 cross their implements high above the gun at the approximate center of the axle The display indicates to everyone on the field that a misfire has occurred. All cannoneers will stand clear of the gun for a three-minute interval. The interval is timed by the Gunner and should be checked by the Chief-of-the-Piece or a commissioned officer.

Gunner acknowledges: THREE MINUTES HAVE ELAPSED

Gunner orders: Number 2 Re-pick and Prime or Number 2, take charge of the Piece
(Numbers 1, 2 ,3 and 4 begin the procedure to clear the misfire.)

Position D: Number 1 and Number 2 disengage the crossed implements. Number 1 moves into a position near the hub on the outside of the right wheel. Still holding the rammer shaft upright and tilted over the tube as if crossed, Number 1 must make room for Number 3 to advance with the tools (either in front of or behind the position of Number 1) Units should decide for themselves on this option. Number 2 places the worm in the implement stand and steps inside the left wheel by hugging the wheel and keeping his back to the muzzle and the tube. He stations himself facing to the rear of the tube in such a manner as to use his non-dominant hand (left if you are right-handed) to work the vent. Number 3 advances to his misfire station near Number 1 and positions himself outside the right wheel, near the axle hub. Number 3, working above the right wheel, hands the proper tools to Number 2.. Number 2 works the vent and extracts the remains of the primer, if any. Number 2 returns the tools to Number 3. (Note: Number 2 and Number 3 should assess the situation and determine if the primer is protruding enough from the vent to utilize pliers or if it is set low and requires a gimlet). Number 2 would normally keep his back to the tube and work the vent with his left hand. Number 3 must position himself so that he or Number 2 does not reach over the vent during the exchange of tools.

Number 2 reports: PRIMER EXTRACTED or THE VENT IS CLEAR
Number 3 hands the priming wire to Number 2, Number 2 inserts the priming wire holding the shaft or the bow of the wire between his fingers (non-dominate hand). He attempts to puncture the powder bag and removes the wire from the vent.
Number 2 returns the priming wire to Number 3 who moves to his original post.

Number 2 reports: CHARGE PRICKED or THE CHARGE IS NOT SEATED
(If it is determined that the charge is not seated, removal of live charge sequence
should be initiated. If the charge has been punctured, the misfire sequence continues.)

Number 4 advances and stations himself outside the left wheel, centered on but clear of the hub. Number 4, working above the left wheel, hands a friction primer to Number 2. (The hook may already be hooked to the primer-unit choice) Number 2 places the primer in the vent. Number 4 then hands the hook end of the lanyard to Number 2 and moves to his position for firing the gun. When in position, Number 4 nods to Number 2 who attaches the lanyard hook to the primer. Number 2 may announce: PRIMED.
Number 2 steps outside the left wheel to his original post.

Number 2 reports: PIECE IS READY

Satisfied that the cannoneers have cleared the misfire and that they and the gun are ready to receive the "Fire" order, the Gunner issues the "Prepare" command.

Gunner orders: PREPARE
(All cannoneers take the positions as described in Position B of the firing sequence.)

Gunner orders FIRE

Number 4 pulls the lanyard sharply. The gun discharges.

Reseating and removing the charge sequence.

These sequences are initiated if, during a misfire it is determined that the charge is not seated or if a second misfire occurs. When in the charge-not-seated condition, the Chief-of-the-Piece, the Section Officer, the Safety Officer, or the Battery Commander may assume the responsibility for clearing the misfire. Cannoneers will assist as required. Implements at their disposal include a U-shaped rammer, a bronze worm, pressure fire extinguishers, and syringes. It is always best to exhaust all possibilities for ignition before attempting to extract the powder charge. Flooding the tube with water to saturate the charge or wash it out or using the bronze worm may be required. If the gun fails to fire for the second time, "Misfire" is called as before. In this case, the steps in clearing the misfire will be repeated as described in Position D of the misfire sequence up to the primer extracted step whereupon, the Chief-of-the-Piece, or one of the officers will take command as in the charge-not-seated circumstance. (Note: No charge should ever be reseated after a primer has fired into the chamber)
. If the bore has been flooded and a worm is to be used, no action should be taken with anyone down range. After 3 attempts to prime and fire, the gun should be shut down and steps to clear the tube should be considered. The Safety Officer should be notified at this point.)

Securing the piece sequence

Once the "Fire" command has been executed, the Gunner, at order of the Chief-of-the-Piece or an officer will terminate serving of the piece.

Gunner orders: CEASE FIRING
(Cannoneers prepare to disengage)

The Gunner uses the cleaning steps as described in the loading sequence, beginning with the “clean- the- vent” procedure and continuing through dry sponge to ensure that the gun tube is clean and clear. Dry sponge being completed by Number 2, the Gunner issues the next command.Gunner orders: SECURE THE PIECE
(Cannoneers begin to stow the implements and secure the gun.)

Numbers 1 through 4 place the implements, acquired initially as described in Position A of the loading sequence, on their hangers. The sponge bucket, sponges, worm and handspikes are returned to their proper positions. The vent cover is installed and all debris left from the firing sequence is retrieved. When this has been accomplished, Numbers 1 through 4 return to their posts and come to attention as in Position E of the Limber Drill.

Satisfied the gun and the implements are secure the Gunner continues the sequence.
Position E: The Gunner moves the gun crew to the limber where they will return the issued implements.

Gunner orders: RIGHT ABOUT FACE
Numbers 1 through 4 turn to face the Gunner, Number 5 faces the limber.

Gunner orders: FORWARD MARCH
Numbers 1 through 4 advance toward the Gunner. The Gunner halts the gun crew at a convenient post. Number 5 does not advance.
Gunner orders: HALT

The Gunner stations himself behind Number 2

Gunner orders: POST ON THE LIMBER MARCH or other commands to position the gun crew at the limber.

Position F: In formation, the detachment, moves to the limber and halts in a position as described in Position E of the Limber Drill except, Number 1 through 5 and the Gunner are facing toward Number 8. At this point, Number 6 and 8 take charge of the detachment and reacquire the issued implements in the order described in Position D, C, and B of the Limber Drill.

Number 8 or the Chief-of-the-Piece will inspect all implements and will open and search all tube pouches for unused friction primers and the cartridge haversack for loose powder or other debris. Residue from firing, aluminum foil, will be deposited with Number 8. When the implement inspection and exchange has been completed, Number 6 orders the chest cover closed and locked. Number 7 closes the cover. Number 6 and 8 informs the Gunner that all implements have been retrieved.

Number 6 reports: IMPLEMENTS HAVE BEEN RETURNED

Gunner orders: DETACHMENT, FORM INTO FILES

Number 6 steps to the front of Number 4, Number 8 steps to the front of Number 6. Number 7 steps to the front of Number 5. The Gunner may advance the detachment to clear the area of the limber.

This being accomplished, the Chief-of-the-Piece or the Gunner forms the detachment into a proper marching formation. The detachment is marched to their next assignment.