The canister takes its designation from that of the piece for which it is prepared. For service it is charged by means of a FUZE, inserted in the hole through which to powder is introduced, the time of the explosion being regulated by the preparation of the fuze. The shell is designated by the weight of the solid shot of the same diameter. Melted sulphur or resin is poured in to fill up the interstices and secure the balls in their positions. Gun powder is then added.
Fire is communicated to the charge by the means employed for exploding the shell.
The shrapnell shot, so called from the name of its inventor, an officer of the British artillery, produces the same effect as the canister, and can be used for much greater distances. Solid shot should be used from 350 yards upwards. The use of canister should begin at 350 yards, and the rapidity of the fire increase as the range diminishes. In emergencies, double charges of canister may be used at 150 or 160 yards with a single cartridge. 3 miles Information taken from a document supplied from the National Parks Service - no other reference.