Trunks were often secured in a shallow trench, the branches sharpened and interlaced to present a formidable hedge to an attacking force. Barbette fire allowed the gun more flexibility, up to a 90-degree field of fire, but provided less protection for gunners than embrasures. This allows access to a position from the rear without exposure to fire. If filled with water, the ditch might be referred to as a moat.
All entrenchments consist of a ditch and parapet.
The parapet is a mound built up from the excavated earth. Excavated Earth is thrown towards the rear against a revetment constructed of logs, wicker, stones, sod, or other materials to form a parapet. Spoil is thrown to the front, often upon a fill of logs, stones, or other materials, to create a parapet. Because the defender stands in the ditch with the parapet covering his body, only half as much earth needs to be excavated. Embrasure fire provided more protection for gunners but restricted a gun's field of fire to about 45 degrees.