THE ROYAL ARTILLERY INSTITUTION. 
183 
be uninjured, in wliicli case the pins can be replaced in a very short 
space of time. But if iron pins are used, a severe slew will split the 
runners, rendering the sled totally unserviceable. Figs. 3 and 4 are 
imaginary representations of the effect of a slew upon wooden and iron 
pins. Fig. 3 showing the effect on a sled with wooden pins; the 
pins having broken off, and the runners being detached and lying under 
the sled; Fig. 4 exhibiting the way in which the runner gets split 
when iron pins are employed. 
An instance of fracture of the wooden pins of a sled took place on 
the march, exactly as represented in Fig. 4; the pins were replaced and 
the sled ready to continue its journey in about 20 minutes. 
These “ benches ” are only employed for sleds intended to do slow. Frame 
heavy, work; other sleds generally have “ frames ” instead ; that is to sleds * 
say, they have a “ frame” constructed of several pieces mortised together, 
instead of a single solid bench. Sleds so fitted are called “ frame-sleds,” 
and are more durable and more expensive than common bench sleds. 
A common bench sled shod with iron costs about £5 sterling, in New 
Brunswick ; a frame-sled, shod with iron about £10 ; and a frame-sled 
shod with steel about £20. 
(3) The “ raves ” are two long pieces, extending the whole length The 
of the sled, connecting the benches together, and between which the “ raves ” 
bed or floor of the sled, consisting of planks is placed. 
(4) The tongue or pole. The “pole” 
or“tongue.” 
(5) The sky-piece, is a curved piece of wood connecting the front The “ sky- 
end of the runners together. Fig. 5, p. 184 shows the tongue, sky- piece * 
piece, and method of attaching the draught. draught. 
Sleds such as above described, are supposed to be able to carry loads Weight 
of 2 tons weight, and are drawn by a pair of horses. such sleds 
As the journey to be performed by the half-battery was to be a very The bat?’ 
long one, an agreement was made with the contractors who furnished tejy loads 
the sleds, that none of the battery loads was to exceed 1 ton in weight; 
and it was calculated that eighteen sleds could convey the half-battery, 
with harness, equipment, and everything complete. 
