"About Types Of Ships Used In The Napoleonic Wars" Topic

"It is a common misconception that the Navies of the Napoleonic Wars used only massive ships, crewed by hundreds of men, which would slowly close and pass their enemy in a line of battle. In truth, every Navy employed a broad range of craft, and many experimented with varying designs, resulting in either astounding success or crushing defeat. Here is a brief description of the variety of ships used during this period, although it only scratches the surface of what was in use.

We begin with the largest, and most well-known: ships of the line of battle. Since the mid 17th century Navies had adopted a line-of-battle in major fleet actions. Each adversary formed a continuous row of powerful warships; the two lines approaching one another, each trying to outmaneuver the other. Early on, any ship available was used in these lines, but it became evident that purpose-built line of battle ships (where the modern term "Battleship" comes from) were needed…."
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Amicalement
Armand

It's a good article but, anyone on this board is probably already pretty familiar with the subject!

Did all navies use the British classing system ?

Only the Brits built 98s so they did not need to pay the crew for manning a first rate ship.

You are right my friend… but there are not many of this on the net also… (smile)

Amicalement
Armand

Did all navies use the British classing system ?

Actually, no. For example, the French had an entirely different system of classification. But as the Brits were the premier navy, most/all games use their system.

And you're correct about the 2nd rates (98 gun 3 deckers). Only the British use them to any extent (especially post 1794). While impressive as flagships for smaller squadrons, they were generally horrible sailers, being slow and crank.