Board of Ordnance
Alan with his guns
Prestwick Rotary's very own 'top gun' Rotarian Allan Dunlop brought in pistols, two muskets and a rifle, and gave a very interesting talk on weaponry development, including the ordnance system.
The Board of Ordnance was set up by the government to set standards for arms manufacture to a common caliber. Until the mid 18th century, chaos ensued, with dozens of different regiments commissioning their own firearms. The ordnance system forced trades to comply, but met many obstacles initially, not least of all resistance from colonels of private regiments, and competition from The East India Company to purchase weapons. Common calibers were set, and manufacturing standards adopted.
Allan has a fund of knowledge on the social development around weaponry, and this makes his talks extremely interesting. Lots of questions followed, which is always a good sign.
Lindsay Smith offered a hearty vote of thanks for a very well-researched talk, expertly presented.
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Weekly Meetings
back This section details the weekly talks at the club and have ranged widely from mindfulness to charity work, health, model making, favourite objects, music and gardening.