One of the newer books in the 'New Vanguard' series is this volume on British WWI artillery. And this isn't just your standard field gun but what is called 'heavy artillery'. A better term for these would be siege guns. Most of these are ex-naval rifles and coastal defense guns, uprooted and placed on carriages for transport to the front in France.

When the war opened in 1914, these types of guns were impractical, mostly due to the fluidity of the front lines. Big guns take time to set up and are not easily moved once they are in place. As the front lines became more and more static, these large guns were a much more viable option.

Ranging in size from 4.6 inch up to 14 inch rail guns, the British used heavy and super-heavy artillery to great advantage. Often, rail lines led right to the breech of these huge guns, enabling the quick off loading of their ammunition. Shells of some of the biggest guns weighed over 250 pounds, while even the lighter ones were in the 100 pound range.

The story of the development and use of these big guns is very well told by author Dale Clark. There are a number of nice period photographs of these guns as well as period illustrations of the design of a few of them. What really helps are the excellent illustrations of Brian Delf. What appears a bit indistinct in a photo is brought to life and clarity by his works.

I was completely amazed at what had to be done to operate and move some of these behemoth units; whether they be artillery pieces or mortars. I did learn the difference between the two, as well as a number of other interesting pieces of information.

Such makes this that perfect primer to these big guns as well as providing information on the operation and camouflage of these weapons. The sound of a barrage by these guns must have been incredible, which has to explain to many of us why our grandfathers were a bit deaf!

Another truly outstanding work from the folks and Osprey and a volume I know you will enjoy reading as much as did I.

September 2005

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