Powder

The powders explained following are in use in the U. S. Navy.

Brown Prismatic. A slow-burning powder, brown in color, in shape hexagonal prism, having a hole in the centre through which it is strung when putting the charge together, and through which also the circulation of the flame is accelerated throughout the mass. This powder is used for service charges for the modern breech-loading rifles.

Black Prismatic. A quick-burning powder used in small quantities as a primer for brown prismatic powder. (See Charges.)

Cannon Powder. A black grain powder, used for service and saluting charges for the old smooth-bore guns.

Mealed Powder. The only use for this powder in the service is for filling primers. As its name implies, it is very fine.

Musket Powder. This is a black, fine-grain powder and is used for filling smallarm cartridges and shell.