Sailing frigate classification
Encyclopedia
The Sailing frigate classification system used during the 19th Century was a classification scheme used in several western countries. It was officially adopted by the United States Navy
. The system classified sailing frigates according to their gun rating.
used this classification system officially, beginning at least by 1825. The Royal Institution of Naval Architects
, an international organization of naval architects, also adopted the system, beginning in 1860.
The United States adopted a new rating system during the American Civil War
, based on the thrown weight of broadsides. By 1875, this system was replaced by a system of steam warship classification
based on tonnage.
United States Navy
The United States Navy is the naval warfare service branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the seven uniformed services of the United States. The U.S. Navy is the largest in the world; its battle fleet tonnage is greater than that of the next 13 largest navies combined. The U.S...
. The system classified sailing frigates according to their gun rating.
Ratings
| Type | Maximum Gun Rating | Minimum Gun Rating | Gun Decks (Including main deck) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Class | 50 | 42 | 2 |
| Second Class | 36 | 28 | 1 or 2 |
| Third Class | 24 | 20 | 1 |
Use
The United States NavyUnited States Navy
The United States Navy is the naval warfare service branch of the United States Armed Forces and one of the seven uniformed services of the United States. The U.S. Navy is the largest in the world; its battle fleet tonnage is greater than that of the next 13 largest navies combined. The U.S...
used this classification system officially, beginning at least by 1825. The Royal Institution of Naval Architects
Royal Institution of Naval Architects
The Royal Institution of Naval Architects is an international organisation representing naval architects. It is an international professional institution whose members are involved world-wide at all levels in the design, construction, repair and operation of ships, boats and marine...
, an international organization of naval architects, also adopted the system, beginning in 1860.
The United States adopted a new rating system during the American Civil War
American Civil War
The American Civil War was a civil war fought in the United States of America. In response to the election of Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States, 11 southern slave states declared their secession from the United States and formed the Confederate States of America ; the other 25...
, based on the thrown weight of broadsides. By 1875, this system was replaced by a system of steam warship classification
Steam warship classification
The Steam warship classification system used during the 19th century was a classification scheme for the comparison of steam warships, including steam frigates and steam sloops...
based on tonnage.