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Gun galleys

In large-scale galley-to-galley engagements, tactics remained essentially the same until the end of the 16th century, even with the introduction of heavy guns. Since galleys could close the reliable maximum range of early naval guns faster than the guns could be reloaded, gun crews would hold their fire until the last possible moment. Shortly before impact, all available guns would fire, similar to infantry tactics in the era of short-range, inaccurate firearms. In extreme cases, such last-second discharges could kill dozens of men instantly, dealing a severe shock to the enemy. Unless one side could outmaneuver the other, lines of galleys would crash into each other head on. Individual ships would then be locked bow to bow in close formation and each ship would be fought over in close-quarters combat. As long as a vessel was not completely overrun, reinforcements could be fed into the fight from reserve vessels in the rear.

The earliest guns were of large calibers, initially of wrought iron, which made them weak compared to the cast bronze guns that would become standard in the 16th century. Early on, guns would be fixed directly to the bow timbers, aimed directly forward in the direction of travel. This placement would remain essentially the same until the galley disappeared from active service in the early 19th century. The introduction of heavy guns and handheld firearms did not change tactics considerably. If anything, it made the bow even more important in offense, both as a staging area for boarders and the obvious place for concentrating firepower. The galley itself could easily outperform most sailing vessels before the establishment of the full-rigged ship. It retained a distinct tactical advantage even after the initial introduction of naval artillery because of the ease with which it could be maneuvered to bare its guns upon an opposing vessel.