The Spellweavers
Sunday Reports
Academe,
I look forward to the reports on your recent activities that all Academe members will present at the unit meet this Sunday (those who are unable to attend may post their reports here). As we have all been busy with a variety of tasks, please focus on one or two pieces of intelligence that might be especially useful to your peers.* Limit your presentation to two minutes.
If you require an assignment, please see me immediately.
-Adv. Graymind
*Do keep in mind that sensitive intelligence should be immediately reported to your officer, rather than announced at the meet.
I look forward to the reports on your recent activities that all Academe members will present at the unit meet this Sunday (those who are unable to attend may post their reports here). As we have all been busy with a variety of tasks, please focus on one or two pieces of intelligence that might be especially useful to your peers.* Limit your presentation to two minutes.
If you require an assignment, please see me immediately.
-Adv. Graymind
*Do keep in mind that sensitive intelligence should be immediately reported to your officer, rather than announced at the meet.
Investigative Report 10-19
Introduction
As a result of a reconnaissance patrol in the environs of Pearlfin Village, a combat group consisting of Sgt. Pearce, Sgt. Merriweather, Sldr. Norwill and Jinyu Waterspeaker Maki encountered a lone Hozen skirmisher. The skirmisher was dispatched and searched for evidence of a larger patrol group and actionable intelligence. The Hozen was in possession of a weapon, which is the subject of this investigative report.
Subject
The weapon is of unconfirmed manufacture. No visible forge marks or weapon smith brands were evidenced. The weapon is a smooth bore muzzle loader with flint lock firing mechanism, very closely mirroring a Sparkfizzle model 3 trigger assembly. The barrel was thin walled and of local metal, colloquially referred to as "ghost-iron".
Cartridges were discovered on the skirmisher and consisted of waxed rice paper containing 60 grains of crudely manufactured gunpowder. The powder was locally sourced and included 70% by weight of refined ghost iron ingot shavings.
Observation
During the action the weapon was fired three times. Upon recovery, the weapon was found to be cool. The barrel did not evidence any thermal radiation, although the lock mechanism did. Given the high energy powder utilized in the cartridges recovered and the thin walls of the barrel itself, such an operational characteristic was unexpected of the weapon.
Of particular interest is that the barrel radiates a faint pattern of magic. Reference with arcanists confirmed the magical energy. Thaumatergic research indicated a minor enchantment of energy channeling.
Testing
Bench tests were performed on the weapon consisting of 100 rounds of charges duplicating the composition of the powder recovered. Repeated discharges did not generate any noticeable thermal radiation from the barrel until the 23 rd round. After completion of the test firings, the barrel evidenced noticeable thermal radiation. The barrel did not exhibit any warping or distortion. The trigger mechanism evidenced significant wear and deterioration over the test sequence.
The weapon placed 6 rounds in a 1 meter target square at 10 meters. For reference, a bench fired Ironforge Black Betty pattern flintlock smoothbore musket will place 28 rounds in the same target on bench tests.
Summary
1. The weapon comports with goblin manufacture. Hozen weapons technology has not advanced to firearm manufacture and was confirmed by several Jinyu sources.
2. Local materials were used in almost all components.
3. Horde weapons technology and firearm development has yet to evidence magical enchantment in manufacture.
4. No component of the weapon utilizes current technology or capabilities known of goblin gunsmiths.
5. The skirmisher did not exhibit any proficiency with the weapon above loading.
6. The non-weapon components showed any signs of quality control measures, that is, parts still retained cast flash, welds were poor, tolerances were loose and the stock was unvarnished. The barrel, by contrast, was cleanly forged and finished.
Hypothesis
It is unlikely to be a prototype given the inconsistent manufacturing processes and the skirmisher utilizing it. Also, the environment was uncontrolled and the user was observed to be undisciplined and poorly trained.
It is possible that the weapon recovered is a limited production test model. If so, the test was intended to examine the barrel and its characteristics. The weapon under controlled tests did not evidence significant thermal stress.
It is not known if there is a metal or manufacture process in current Alliance technology capable of producing a barrel with the same combination of barrel thickness, weight and thermal characteristic. Such characteristics would be of exceptional value in high rate of fire weapon such as a repeating carbine and could be critical in development of sustained fire automatic weapons.
Introduction
As a result of a reconnaissance patrol in the environs of Pearlfin Village, a combat group consisting of Sgt. Pearce, Sgt. Merriweather, Sldr. Norwill and Jinyu Waterspeaker Maki encountered a lone Hozen skirmisher. The skirmisher was dispatched and searched for evidence of a larger patrol group and actionable intelligence. The Hozen was in possession of a weapon, which is the subject of this investigative report.
Subject
The weapon is of unconfirmed manufacture. No visible forge marks or weapon smith brands were evidenced. The weapon is a smooth bore muzzle loader with flint lock firing mechanism, very closely mirroring a Sparkfizzle model 3 trigger assembly. The barrel was thin walled and of local metal, colloquially referred to as "ghost-iron".
Cartridges were discovered on the skirmisher and consisted of waxed rice paper containing 60 grains of crudely manufactured gunpowder. The powder was locally sourced and included 70% by weight of refined ghost iron ingot shavings.
Observation
During the action the weapon was fired three times. Upon recovery, the weapon was found to be cool. The barrel did not evidence any thermal radiation, although the lock mechanism did. Given the high energy powder utilized in the cartridges recovered and the thin walls of the barrel itself, such an operational characteristic was unexpected of the weapon.
Of particular interest is that the barrel radiates a faint pattern of magic. Reference with arcanists confirmed the magical energy. Thaumatergic research indicated a minor enchantment of energy channeling.
Testing
Bench tests were performed on the weapon consisting of 100 rounds of charges duplicating the composition of the powder recovered. Repeated discharges did not generate any noticeable thermal radiation from the barrel until the 23 rd round. After completion of the test firings, the barrel evidenced noticeable thermal radiation. The barrel did not exhibit any warping or distortion. The trigger mechanism evidenced significant wear and deterioration over the test sequence.
The weapon placed 6 rounds in a 1 meter target square at 10 meters. For reference, a bench fired Ironforge Black Betty pattern flintlock smoothbore musket will place 28 rounds in the same target on bench tests.
Summary
1. The weapon comports with goblin manufacture. Hozen weapons technology has not advanced to firearm manufacture and was confirmed by several Jinyu sources.
2. Local materials were used in almost all components.
3. Horde weapons technology and firearm development has yet to evidence magical enchantment in manufacture.
4. No component of the weapon utilizes current technology or capabilities known of goblin gunsmiths.
5. The skirmisher did not exhibit any proficiency with the weapon above loading.
6. The non-weapon components showed any signs of quality control measures, that is, parts still retained cast flash, welds were poor, tolerances were loose and the stock was unvarnished. The barrel, by contrast, was cleanly forged and finished.
Hypothesis
It is unlikely to be a prototype given the inconsistent manufacturing processes and the skirmisher utilizing it. Also, the environment was uncontrolled and the user was observed to be undisciplined and poorly trained.
It is possible that the weapon recovered is a limited production test model. If so, the test was intended to examine the barrel and its characteristics. The weapon under controlled tests did not evidence significant thermal stress.
It is not known if there is a metal or manufacture process in current Alliance technology capable of producing a barrel with the same combination of barrel thickness, weight and thermal characteristic. Such characteristics would be of exceptional value in high rate of fire weapon such as a repeating carbine and could be critical in development of sustained fire automatic weapons.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORT: 10/30
Introduction
Soldier Kurzen recently acquired a sample of Pandaren firearms technology. The following is an examination of the weapon.
Subject
The rifle is 49 inches (124.5 cm) long, the steel barrel 33.22 inches (84 cm). The rifling produced a heptagonal barrel with seven grooves with one turn in 22 inches (560 mm). The weapon weighs 8 pounds 7 ounces (3.83 kg). The barrel is bored to fit a .458-inch bullet.
The weapon features a falling block breach loading mechanism, accommodating a single cartridge. The action drops the block and extracts the cartridge in one motion, then raises the block and cocks the firing pin on the reverse.
Craftsmanship is indicative of hand-manufacture. None of the cast or forged components evidence and visual defects, such as cast flaring, weld marks or improper fitting. Soldier Kurzen was told the weapon was a reject. It is possible that there is an error in tolerances in the breech assembly or a fault in the barrel manufacture.
No cartridges or ammunition was provided as those are apparently manufactured by a different fraft or guild.
Observation
Not applicable. Soldier Kurzen explained that this weapon was a standard pattern rifle. Muskets, matchlocks, and other muzzle loaded weapons have not been evidenced in Pandaren use. Anecdotal research places Pandaren muscle-powered ranged weapon technology apparently is on par with Alliance norms. Recurved bows and greatbows are common, however crossbows are the also very common. The Pandarens do have a light repeating crossbow design. A sample will be acquired for inspection as part of a later investigation.
Testing
No bench tests were performed as a suitable replica cartridge was unable to be reverse engineered at this time. Oiling and maintenance of the mechanism results in a heavy handed, but smooth action .. most likely engineered for Pandaren frames and paws (hands?).
Summary
1. The weapon parallels many 'bleeding edge' Alliance technologies. Sealed cartridges are beginning to gain traction with greater availability of machining tools capable of mass manufacture. However, these are currently restricted to custom weapons and/or specialized units, e.g., the Servitor Fenris Pattern Rifle.
2. Local materials were used in all components. Pandaren Ghost iron, bronze, brass and a steel-like alloy are utilized throughout.
3. The lever and breech action components may be duplicated if a suitable metal was found with the proper combination of thermal, tactile and ductile characteristics.
Conclusion
The weapon's design and manufacture produces a main battle rifle which could possibly generate a sustained rate of fire of between 8 and 12 rounds her minute. 3 to 4 times more than current alliance musket rates of fire. The weapon may also be easily loaded and fired from a prone position, unlike muzzle loaders, which must be loaded while standing or kneeling.
Such a weapon, in the hands of skilled marksmen trained in skirmish tactics could allow a small unit engage, hold and defeat a much larger unit employing conventional mass and volume line-based tactics.
Introduction
Soldier Kurzen recently acquired a sample of Pandaren firearms technology. The following is an examination of the weapon.
Subject
The rifle is 49 inches (124.5 cm) long, the steel barrel 33.22 inches (84 cm). The rifling produced a heptagonal barrel with seven grooves with one turn in 22 inches (560 mm). The weapon weighs 8 pounds 7 ounces (3.83 kg). The barrel is bored to fit a .458-inch bullet.
The weapon features a falling block breach loading mechanism, accommodating a single cartridge. The action drops the block and extracts the cartridge in one motion, then raises the block and cocks the firing pin on the reverse.
Craftsmanship is indicative of hand-manufacture. None of the cast or forged components evidence and visual defects, such as cast flaring, weld marks or improper fitting. Soldier Kurzen was told the weapon was a reject. It is possible that there is an error in tolerances in the breech assembly or a fault in the barrel manufacture.
No cartridges or ammunition was provided as those are apparently manufactured by a different fraft or guild.
Observation
Not applicable. Soldier Kurzen explained that this weapon was a standard pattern rifle. Muskets, matchlocks, and other muzzle loaded weapons have not been evidenced in Pandaren use. Anecdotal research places Pandaren muscle-powered ranged weapon technology apparently is on par with Alliance norms. Recurved bows and greatbows are common, however crossbows are the also very common. The Pandarens do have a light repeating crossbow design. A sample will be acquired for inspection as part of a later investigation.
Testing
No bench tests were performed as a suitable replica cartridge was unable to be reverse engineered at this time. Oiling and maintenance of the mechanism results in a heavy handed, but smooth action .. most likely engineered for Pandaren frames and paws (hands?).
Summary
1. The weapon parallels many 'bleeding edge' Alliance technologies. Sealed cartridges are beginning to gain traction with greater availability of machining tools capable of mass manufacture. However, these are currently restricted to custom weapons and/or specialized units, e.g., the Servitor Fenris Pattern Rifle.
2. Local materials were used in all components. Pandaren Ghost iron, bronze, brass and a steel-like alloy are utilized throughout.
3. The lever and breech action components may be duplicated if a suitable metal was found with the proper combination of thermal, tactile and ductile characteristics.
Conclusion
The weapon's design and manufacture produces a main battle rifle which could possibly generate a sustained rate of fire of between 8 and 12 rounds her minute. 3 to 4 times more than current alliance musket rates of fire. The weapon may also be easily loaded and fired from a prone position, unlike muzzle loaders, which must be loaded while standing or kneeling.
Such a weapon, in the hands of skilled marksmen trained in skirmish tactics could allow a small unit engage, hold and defeat a much larger unit employing conventional mass and volume line-based tactics.
Quote:
Report on Theramore Kitchen
At 1700 zulu, Saturday, November 18, the following Servitors made their selves available for general humanitarian relief work:
Guard-Soldier T. Wynchester,
Guard-Novice B. Woodrey,
Academe-Applicant E. Chase,
Guard-Applicant R. Leveque.
Installation of the Commissary and subsequent staff training has been postponed due to (a) weather related delays in moving several pieces of equipment to the set up site and (b) shortage of personnel with applicable skill sets.
Efforts focused on the construction of housing built with local materials of sufficient strength and characteristics to accommodate the influx of refugees and provide shelter for the upcoming winter. Consulting with the team, a plan was formulated whereby:
1. Sunken vessels would be salvaged for planks, canvas, hemp and fittings,
2. Such salvage was inspected for fitness as building materials,
3. All methods would be employed to increase the pool of source materials, both mundane and magical (druidical, shamanic, arcane), and
4. A sample would be built and craftsmen trained in its construction.
The shelter was designed as a shanty affixed upon a raft supported by pontoons. This allowed for the use of the shelter in flooded areas in and around the harbor without having to move the populace outside the town walls. It should be noted that A-A Chase thought of the core concept, an indication of flexibility of thought and breadth of learning. G-S Wynchester and G-N Woodrey utilized their unique maritime adaptability to salvage parts from a local wreck, the HMS Virtue. G-A Leveque did not shirk physical exertion and willingly and enthusiastically discharged fatigue duty.
One sample was built and tested. Salvaged construction materials and core design were deemed suitable and durable enough for the designated use. Flaws were identified and corrected and the local labor, consisting of both Theramorian and Menethilite craftsmen, built and constructed a second shelter with sturdier construction, a secure hearth/heating area and a privvy. The ship's wheel was salvaged and used as a centerpiece to commemorate the cooperation between civilian populations.
Concerns voiced by one General Ironholde of the Dwarven Vanguard led rise to discussions of security. A rough plan of defense was developed with input from both Mayor Thromm Ironoar of Menethil and Councilman Devin Willowdawn of Theramore. The Mayor shall send to Ironforge for a mortar company and plans were outlined for further improvements come springtime, including but not limited to:
Salvaging fortifications and opening a quarry to build a sea wall,
Installation of flood remediation pumps,
Constructing a permanent, shore-based location.
Mayor Ironoar (a) was satisfied that the refugees would not place an unacceptable strain on local resources, (b) had a commitment from them to provide additional labor and knowledge for further rebuilding efforts, and (c) expressed relief that this short term project would serve to relieve tension between the two populaces.
Councilman Willowdawn was thankful that (a) the plight of his constituents was addressed by a “official” Alliance delegate, (b) the Mayor would no longer view the Theramorians as a temporary inconvenience but more of a long term opportunity, and (c) immediate short term needs were addressed utilizing self-help and additional local resources rather than subsidies from afar.
Overall, this mission could be considered a partial success with little apparent short or long term negative implications. Follow ups regarding the provisioning situation, further reconstruction and monitoring of political complications are recommended.
Respectfully Submitted,
Academe-Sergeant R. Merriweather
At 1700 zulu, Saturday, November 18, the following Servitors made their selves available for general humanitarian relief work:
Guard-Soldier T. Wynchester,
Guard-Novice B. Woodrey,
Academe-Applicant E. Chase,
Guard-Applicant R. Leveque.
Installation of the Commissary and subsequent staff training has been postponed due to (a) weather related delays in moving several pieces of equipment to the set up site and (b) shortage of personnel with applicable skill sets.
Efforts focused on the construction of housing built with local materials of sufficient strength and characteristics to accommodate the influx of refugees and provide shelter for the upcoming winter. Consulting with the team, a plan was formulated whereby:
1. Sunken vessels would be salvaged for planks, canvas, hemp and fittings,
2. Such salvage was inspected for fitness as building materials,
3. All methods would be employed to increase the pool of source materials, both mundane and magical (druidical, shamanic, arcane), and
4. A sample would be built and craftsmen trained in its construction.
The shelter was designed as a shanty affixed upon a raft supported by pontoons. This allowed for the use of the shelter in flooded areas in and around the harbor without having to move the populace outside the town walls. It should be noted that A-A Chase thought of the core concept, an indication of flexibility of thought and breadth of learning. G-S Wynchester and G-N Woodrey utilized their unique maritime adaptability to salvage parts from a local wreck, the HMS Virtue. G-A Leveque did not shirk physical exertion and willingly and enthusiastically discharged fatigue duty.
One sample was built and tested. Salvaged construction materials and core design were deemed suitable and durable enough for the designated use. Flaws were identified and corrected and the local labor, consisting of both Theramorian and Menethilite craftsmen, built and constructed a second shelter with sturdier construction, a secure hearth/heating area and a privvy. The ship's wheel was salvaged and used as a centerpiece to commemorate the cooperation between civilian populations.
Concerns voiced by one General Ironholde of the Dwarven Vanguard led rise to discussions of security. A rough plan of defense was developed with input from both Mayor Thromm Ironoar of Menethil and Councilman Devin Willowdawn of Theramore. The Mayor shall send to Ironforge for a mortar company and plans were outlined for further improvements come springtime, including but not limited to:
Salvaging fortifications and opening a quarry to build a sea wall,
Installation of flood remediation pumps,
Constructing a permanent, shore-based location.
Mayor Ironoar (a) was satisfied that the refugees would not place an unacceptable strain on local resources, (b) had a commitment from them to provide additional labor and knowledge for further rebuilding efforts, and (c) expressed relief that this short term project would serve to relieve tension between the two populaces.
Councilman Willowdawn was thankful that (a) the plight of his constituents was addressed by a “official” Alliance delegate, (b) the Mayor would no longer view the Theramorians as a temporary inconvenience but more of a long term opportunity, and (c) immediate short term needs were addressed utilizing self-help and additional local resources rather than subsidies from afar.
Overall, this mission could be considered a partial success with little apparent short or long term negative implications. Follow ups regarding the provisioning situation, further reconstruction and monitoring of political complications are recommended.
Respectfully Submitted,
Academe-Sergeant R. Merriweather
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