The daily union. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1845-1857, 1845-07-26

ANELEcTRlc GUN.-Another novelty has just made
its appearance in London under the name of ''Siya,
or the destroying power" or "Mr. Beningfeld's
gun" writer, describing it, says itappeared like
large voloncello case resting on three wheels; two
of the wheels being nj the side, and one cross-wheel
at the end was exhibited TO the view of the specta-
tor. Elevated from this carriage, about four feet six
inches long, and TO height of Eve feet from tho
ground, was a long tube, the muzzle pointing tow
ards the target, and the other end breeched like a
gun, and embedded in the box TO which it was at
tached. AT various points were screws turncocEs,
and other necessary adjuncts to an air, steam, or
electrical machine.
No one was allowed to approach the "Siva" ex-
cep the protector and his two assistants, who wore
caps with gold bands round them. At the breech-
ing of this tube there two straight horns, and
at the extreme end small handle. A number of
bullets (about doZen) were put into each of these
tubes. turn of screw from the right horn or
tube, and the depression Of the handle, shot forth at
the target squirt Of vapor following its egress from
the mouth of ihcbarrel. This was done in quick
succession; and then, the left horn having been lift
ed perpendcularly, and the handle having been kept
depressed, the number Of bullets which il contained
were shot roaring from the muzzle, and rafting on
the target the vapor issuing forth at both ends The
Tubes were repleRshed--the sing eshots being fixed
whilst the yoley-tubc was charged.
The inventor says: "'rhe bullets are 5-8ths of an
inch in diameter; but in actual service, the appars-
one inch in diameter, with increased force. The
bullets now used calculated To kill at the dis
lance Of statute mile; they pass freely through a
thrce-inch plank, which, in voley firing, is torn to
atoms 10y the force; but if discharged against an iron
target, they dashed to piecesj if into solid log
Of wood, are often found welded together appearing
to he united by a semi-fusion." The target--at
which so pounds Of bullets were fred-presented,
however, the ordinary appearance Of the elects of
military argetpracticc; and although at not great
er distance than that of 80 yards, some of the bull
let's had only half embedded themselves in the soft
deal. II is said that the machine is not capable of
firing ball heavier than one pound; but it is light
and portable, and may be drawn by one horse at a
rapid pace. The firing was rather wide of the mark
sometimes; but it is said, true aim can be taken
with it, and IT travorses the cross-wheel with
and steadness. The cost Of keeping ii in action is
stated TO be very trhing, and is capable Of throw
ing more bullets than two regiments. The inventor
has attracted the attention ofnaval and military men
of distinctions; and at another exhibition next week.
several artillery officers expected to be present
The power is unfoubted; and a swift and effective
discharge of host of bullets, in direction at the
will of the engineer from machine capable Of rap
id transition has evidently been established by Mr..
Beningfeld. Further demonstrations will prove its
utility.