Artillery (magazine)

Artillery was first published in 1915, during the height of the First World War, as a professional journal for artillerymen. It was issued monthly from London and circulated among officers and NCOs of the Royal Artillery and Dominion forces. The magazine was part of a broader trend of wartime service journals that aimed to maintain morale and disseminate technical knowledge. Its publication ceased with the end of the war in 1918, as the need for such specialized periodicals diminished.

The magazine covered a wide range of topics: ballistics, gun laying, observation techniques, and the use of new weapons like trench mortars and gas shells. It included reports from the front, letters from readers, and reviews of new equipment. A notable feature was the 'Question and Answer' section, where gunners could seek advice on technical problems. The magazine also published official communiqués and extracts from training manuals, making it a valuable reference for artillery units.

Artillery played a role in standardizing artillery practice across the British Empire's forces. Its articles often reflected the evolving tactics of the war, such as the shift from direct to indirect fire and the development of creeping barrages. The magazine helped disseminate lessons learned from the front, contributing to the professional development of artillery officers. It is now a primary source for historians studying the technical and social history of artillery in WWI.

Lesser-known aspects include its occasional publication of poetry and cartoons submitted by soldiers, which provided a human touch. The magazine also featured advertisements for military equipment and services, offering insight into the wartime economy. Some issues included supplements with detailed diagrams of guns and ammunition. The magazine's editorial team remains largely anonymous, but it is known that contributions came from serving officers, some of whom later became prominent military writers.

Royal Artillery

The artillery corps of the British Army.

Creeping barrage

A moving artillery barrage that advances ahead of infantry.

Trench mortar

A short-range mortar used in trench warfare.