Drag Ropes: How are they used??

[Rob Beale]

25 pdr has the heavy drag ropes of 3" rope (=1" dia) x 30' long
6 pdr has the light drag ropes of 2" rope (5/8" dia) x 15' 6"long

Both ropes have steel thimbles in the spliced loops at both ends
with a drag link with a leather strap at one end for the drag washer on the axle,
and a ring with a pair of chains at other end for the wheel lugs on the pneumatic tyres.


18 pdr and 15 pdr and 12 pdr each have the light drag ropes 2" rope x 15 foot long.
These ropes have a leather lined loop at one end and a plain drag link at the other end. (Not sure if this end has a thimble or leather lining).


From other reading it seems early drag ropes often had wooden poles or rope nooses along the length to give the troops better purchase.
The longer ropes are thicker as they will carry a greater load with more people pulling on them.


Many thanks to Rob L, Rob N and Mike for your excellent prompt help.
I am not a gunner but an ex infanteer who is fascinated by the extent of the gear used to move the guns and to equip them. Serendipity rules!

Rob B