Pow's hit

Discussions about the history of the ship, technical details, etc.

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paul.mercer
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Pow's hit

Post by paul.mercer »

Gentlemen,
During the battle of Denmark Strait Bismarck was hit in the bow by a shell that passed through without exploding, I believe that it still caused extensive flooding. In your opinions what would have been the result if it had gone off, patricularly on Bismarck's speed and would it have altered the battle?
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Dave Saxton
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Re: Pow's hit

Post by Dave Saxton »

The shell would still have passed completely through before it went off, if it had gone off. The shell would have gone Approx. 12 meters before detonating in the water the other side- if it wasn't a dud or rendered inert. In my opinion it would not have made any difference in damages if it had gone off. The flooding was caused by the entry and exit holes being below the bow wave created by Bismarck's high speed at the time, although above the waterline.
Entering a night sea battle is an awesome business.The enveloping darkness, hiding the enemy's.. seems a living thing, malignant and oppressive.Swishing water at the bow and stern mark an inexorable advance toward an unknown destiny.
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