I proof tested a Winchester Model 1901 ten gauge cannon with as much powder as the shell would hold (eight drams of black) and more powder up the barrel with a wad in front. I made the mistake of firing it while the cannon was on top of a wood pile instead of on the ground. The cannon did a back flip and landed on the asphalt of my driveway. I guess it was a soft surface, because the cast iron carriage of the cannon was not damaged. This is probably how Winchester did the 9 dram test. Of course, there was no shot in front of my cannon load.
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