Cartidges
Propellant charges of gunpowder were fixed at one eighth the projectile's weight (except for the 7-inch which were slightly less) and were enclosed in serge bags. A 'lubricator' consisting of a cup of tallow and linseed oil was encolsed in each cartidge or attached to the outside of 40- and 110-prs (7-inch). Its purpose was to prevent the gun 'leading up', ie to stop the lead sheathing on the projectiles fouling the rifling.

Tin cups
These were inserted in the chamber after loading to assist obturation. Each had a hole in the centre to allow flash from the vent to fire the cartridge. They were used for practice only.

Ignition
This was by 'T' friction tube.