A plan for Ability exists in the nmm, ref m2117, for those seeking legible detail of the attached...
however, it is other detail which intrigues me, namely her intended armament higlighted by the 5 (im)perfect blue circles.
The plan shows 3 x 20mm single oerlikons, 1 in each bridge wing, the third abaft the funnel. Much more interesting are the 2 x twin, yes twin, 0.5" colt machine guns each side on the deck above the 2 bridge wing oerlikons. These colts, especially as twins, seem a very obscure and improbale British merchant fit on such a coastal trader.
I'd like to know if any of these planned weapons were installed, and equally important, if fitted, who manned them, as larger merchants with a heavier gun fit DEMS gunners would be carried, doubtful they would serve in Ability, and similar small armed ships, so what arrangements were instigated and more crucially, employed. I doubt any of her normal crew would be let loose with an oerlikon other than shell supply party.
ps, previous links don't link.
Thats all folks. Sean.
