Part 3 of Naval Rules

So where are we? We're combining two sets of rules, Seekrieg 4 and Battle Stations. Actually we're combining more than that. Torpedoes have to be factored in, and those are always a pain.

What is the gunnery procedure?
First we measure the range from the bridge of the firing ship to the closest point of the target. We check table H-2 of the Seekrieg 4 rules. Cross-reference that with table I-1 to get the number of shells hitting the target.

Second we go to the hit table in Battle Stations. We have the starting value of the ship from its type (Old Pre-dreadnought, for example, is 01). We throw one pair of decimal dice to see where the shell lands. If there's another hit, we throw 1d10 and add the value to the first for that hit.

Third, we go to table R2 of Seekrieg for penetration, but check armor type on table Q1.

Fourth, we read off the value of the hit and mark off the appropriate damage.

What is the torpedo procedure?
This comes from a set of rules I pulled out of a magazine. First, we throw 3d6 and score a hit on an 18 or 19 after applying modifiers. Second, we throw 1d100 and it is a dud on a score of 1-21. We then throw 1d6 to see where the torpedo hit on the ship. We then go to the ship chart determined for Battle Stations and mark off the appropriate places. Remember, these rules are for 1895-1912.

On each turn after the torpedo hit we check for progressive flooding. It could get worse, it might not. This should really be a function of crew training (anyone who has ever read in The Shattered Sword about the Japanese damage control procedures would cry).

What Then?
Some ships sink, others limp away with damage. Our surviving ships then shoot at each other again. Repeat as often as needed.

What of Movement?
Let's keep it simple. Use General Quarters 2. And that includes the turning rules. Or, if you want real simple, let's use Avalon Hill's Jutland turn and move indicators.

Will it work?
I don't see any insuperable obstacles. And this can all be done on a tabletop so nobody has to grub around on their hands and knees and use poor eyesight.

Back to story writing.