Abstract: A novel method and apparatus for loading a projectile and its propellant charge into a firing chamber of a firearm, comprising the steps of: positioning the projectile on a loading tray which is then pivoted into a position coinciding with an axis extending through the firearm barrel, positioning the propellant charge on a carrying member which is then pivoted into a position directly behind the projectile, moving the carrying member toward the barrel chamber to push the projectile into firing position therein, reversing the movement of the carrying member wherein a charge retainer retains the propellant charge in proper position within the firing chamber.

Abstract: A rammer head assembly for moving a projectile and a propellant charge from a first position behind a barrel chamber of a firearm into a second position within the barrel chamber, with the propellant charge being positioned adjacent to a closed rear end of the chamber. The rammer head assembly being rotatably supported so as to swing the propellant charge end-to-end behind the projectile and including a pivotable front end portion for contacting and moving the projectile into the firing chamber.

Abstract: An improved low-profile turret for a large-calibre tank-mounted firearm includes a support for operating personnel and a box-shaped structure which permits the turret to blend into the upper surface of the tank. An improved loading pendulum is also disclosed.

Abstract: An assembly for loading a projectile and a propellant charge into a barrel chamber of a firearm, wherein the projectile is movable from a first position at the side of a plane extending along an axis of the barrel to a second position coinciding with the barrel axis, and a rammer head assembly which pivots the propellant charge into line behind the projectile and drives the projectile and propellant charge into the firearm.