The position of the "Tube" in this shot is a few degrees of elevation above the position it would be in for loading. This tube was a real test for the hydraulics of the M110. It performed very well with few problems. The round weighed 175 plus pounds and could be shot about 32 miles at maximum charge. Replacing these tubes were tedious. You wouldn't want one to drop on you as it would most likely raise a hickey.