Solid Shot: Ballistics question

[JohnBellHood]

Would a solid shot from a muzzle loaded cannon (lets say a 12lb Napoleon) take on lots of angular (spin) momentum when it hit the ground? I have read about solid shot spinning like tops before the round came to rest on ships, but have not found a similar reference for land battles. My guess is that the solid shot from a 12 lb Napoleon would start spinning at very high rotational rates as soon as it hit the ground. Is that tru?

 

[Rifleman1776]

It would have to start spinning. When a part hits the ground it would encounter friction the rest of the ball doesn't and cause top spin.
I have observed large rocks kicked by a brush hog. They fly then hit the ground then seem to gain new energy as they go flying again, and spinning.

 

[Tumblernotch]

That's why so many soldiers who thought they could stop a rolling cannonball with their foot lost them in the process. Still a lot of energy there.

 

[KABAR2]

It was common practice when firing at infantry too far out for canister to "bounce" solid shot through their lines..... you may only kill or maim a few with each shot but carnage can have it's negitive effect on one's enemy.........
and it is probable that someone somewhere tried to stop a cannon ball with their foot..... bad idea......