24 Gun Frigates

A frigate is a fast and manoeuvrable single-deck vessel, used for reconnaissance and missions in distant waters. This 24-gun ship is not a ship-of-the-line, and would not last long in combat against such an opponent. Rather than heavy firepower, it is built for speed and easy handling; the guns on board are much lighter than those used by even the smallest battle ship. A frigate is not suited to close combat, its hull and masts would not survive a heavy enemy broadside. Instead, their advantage lies in the long range qualities of their relatively accurate 9-pounder guns, and their manoeuvrability against lumbering ships. They can, quite simply, outmanoeuvre larger opponents, and choose to run if the odds are against them.

Armament:
Upper deck: 18 × 9-pounder guns

Quarterdeck: 2 x 6-pounder guns + 2 x 18-pounder carronades

Forecastle: 2 x 18-pounder carronades

Crew:
Total Crew: 150 Men

Seamen: 96 men

Gunners: 72 men

Able Seamen: 24 men Marines: 50 Marines

Officers: 4 men