Some of these have the
domed turret form, with the gun projecting through the roof,
while others are protected against hostile attack from the side
only, the carriage being panelled with bullet-proof steel
sheeting. While such weapons are useful, inasmuch as they can
maintain a hot fire ranging up to 750 shots per minute, they are
not to be compared with the "Archibalds," which are able to throw
heavy shrapnel and incendiary shells, and have a vertical range
of about 6,000 to 8,000 feet.
The improvised motor-gun has not proved a complete success,
except in those instances when the hostile aircraft has ventured
to approach somewhat closely to the ground. The more formidable
weapons cannot be mounted upon ordinary vehicles, inasmuch as the
increase in weight, which is appreciable, impairs the efficiency
of the vehicle, and at the same time enhances the possibility of
breakdown at a critical moment. For such arms a special and
substantial chassis is imperative, while the motive power and
gearing must be adapted to the circumstances.
Motor-mounted anti-aircraft weapons, however, have not proved an
unqualified success.
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