(d) Give the upper surface of the felt wad and the inside of the cartridge case just above the wad a good coat of the rubberine or other quick-drying paint furnished for the purpose, using a brush, and allow the case to stand until this coat is dry. Then apply another coat of rubberine paint in a similar manner. The object of using rubberine paint, which is strongly adhesive, is to thoroughly seal the joint between the wad and the case to prevent any powder grains from leaking out, and at the same time to firmly hold the wad in place. =The reloading and cleaning outfit.=—This outfit consists of the following parts, and is furnished to each battery: Primer-inserting press, small Bushing Powder measure, saluting Decapping tool, with guide Cleaning brush Hammer Case holder Case-holder stand Storage chest The bushing is used in the primer-inserting press for the insertion of new primers. The decapping tool and case holder and stand are used for removing exploded primers from the cartridge cases. A light blow on the rod with a piece of wood or the bronze hammer generally removes the primer. A powder measure to suit the saluting charge for the gun is furnished, and when level full holds the required charge. The cleaning brush is furnished for cleaning the cartridge cases after they have been used and should be ordered to suit the size of case for which intended. =Care of Cartridge Cases.=—As soon after firing as practicable the exploded primers should be removed from the cartridge case by means of the decapping tools furnished with the reloading outfit. The case should then be thoroughly washed in a strong solution of soft soap and soda to remove all powder residue. It should then be thoroughly dried. If the cartridge cases are carefully cleaned and washed immediately after firing, not only will less labor be required but the life of the cartridge case will be greatly prolonged. A good solution for washing cartridge cases may be prepared by using ingredients in the following proportions: 1 gallon of water, 2½ ounces of soft soap, 5½ ounces soda. The mixture should be boiled and stirred until the ingredients are entirely dissolved. In washing cartridge cases this solution should be used hot and in sufficient quantity to completely immerse the cases. Neither acids nor solutions of acids will be used for cleaning cartridge cases. Precautions to be Observed with Fixed Ammunition. (a) Do not unnecessarily expose ammunition to the sun or load it into a warm gun before time for firing; if this is done, erratic shooting will result. (b) Handle carefully, otherwise cartridges may become deformed and cause jams. (c) Never use force or any implements on the base of the cartridge in loading. (d) See that fuzes set at safety or are provided with waterproof brass cover for transport. (e) Do not fire ammunition which has been under water with the waterproof brass cover removed.