Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon from San Juan Hill

Published on April 9, 2019
Duration: 16:10

This entry details the Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon, a 37mm weapon developed by Benjamin Hotchkiss. It highlights its unique mechanical design, operational procedures, and historical significance, particularly its use in the Spanish-American War and WWI. The information is presented with high authority, drawing from expert analysis of the firearm's mechanics and provenance.

Quick Summary

The Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon is a 37mm artillery piece known for its single-bolt, intermittent barrel rotation, offering enhanced safety and accuracy. Developed by Benjamin Hotchkiss, it saw service in conflicts like the Spanish-American War and WWI, and its caliber was chosen to meet international treaty restrictions on explosive projectiles.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Provenance
  2. 00:45History of Benjamin Hotchkiss
  3. 02:46Caliber and Legal Constraints
  4. 03:37Mechanical Design vs. Gatling Gun
  5. 05:56Loading and Crew
  6. 07:14Aiming and Controls
  7. 08:14Internal Mechanics
  8. 13:01Global Use and Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon?

The Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon is a 37mm artillery piece developed by Benjamin Hotchkiss. It features a unique single-bolt mechanism with intermittent barrel rotation, designed for rapid fire and improved safety against hangfires, distinguishing it from Gatling guns.

What was the historical significance of the Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon?

This cannon gained notoriety during the Spanish-American War, with examples captured at San Juan Hill. It was also widely adopted globally, serving in naval roles and through WWI as an anti-aircraft and defensive weapon.

What are the key mechanical features of the Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon?

It utilizes a single bolt, intermittent barrel rotation, a 10-round gravity-fed magazine, and is operated via hand cranks for aiming. Its internal mechanism includes a cam wheel and a removable firing pin.

Why was the 37mm caliber chosen for the Hotchkiss Revolving Cannon?

The 37mm caliber was selected to comply with the Congress of St. Petersburg's 1868 treaty, which prohibited the use of explosive projectiles weighing less than 400 grams (approximately 14 oz).

Related News

All News →

More Tactical & Gear Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →