The Dahlgren gun is a type of naval artillery developed in the 19th century by Rear Admiral John A. Dahlgren of the United States Navy. Known for its distinctive shape, the gun features a broad muzzle and a tapered body, which helps to distribute the stress of firing. It was primarily used on warships during the American Civil War and was designed to fire explosive shells. These guns were made from cast iron and were notable for their ability to fire heavy projectiles at high velocities. The Dahlgren gun played a significant role in naval warfare, influencing the design of future artillery pieces and contributing to advancements in naval technology.