This[1] explains the various fuzing types pretty well. Generally, some sort of intertial or centrifugal striker lights a fuse-train of constant-speed burning po

This[1] explains the various fuzing types pretty well. Generally, some sort of intertial or centrifugal striker lights a fuse-train of constant-speed burning powder, which subsequently ignits the main charge. Timed fuzes could be set by either punching a hole through the delay spiral into the trigger charge at a specific point, or rotating a metal collar on the shell which had the same effect. I think they would have all been set manually, although probably with reference to markings on the fuzes themselves for either time or distance. Experience and/or feedback from the artillery spotters would indicate if they were bursting too early or late (and many would have backup impact fuzes in case they were too late). [1] http://www.passioncompassion1418.com/decouvertes/english_fusees_types.html http://www.passioncompassion1418.com/decouvertes/english_fus...