This little manual originally appeared in the form of a series of papers, entitled " Weapons of War," in Cassell's Technical Educator. It was not known at the time of writing them that they would be reprinted in their present form, otherwise the subject might have been somewhat differently treated. But it has been urged that a reprint of these papers as they stood might prove useful to soldiers and volunteers. Some of the existing technical works on our materiel of war are too voluminous for the general military student; others are too sketchy and inaccurate. This little manual may at least lay some claim to the merit of having avoided both these faults; it can hardly be said to be too bulky; and it certainly is, as far as it goes, accurate. It may therefore, perhaps, satisfy a want which has hitherto remained unsatisfied between two extremes. Further, it should be stated that much of the information contained in this manual has been collected from Blue Books, Reports, and official documents which the general military student would often find it impracticable to consult.