The vast majority of ships in the 1500s were made of wood. The most common type of wood used was oak, due to its strength and durability. Other types of wood used included pine, fir, and cedar.
Construction Methods
Ships in the 1500s were typically constructed using the "clinker" method. In this method, planks were overlapped and fastened together with nails or pegs. The planks were then caulked with tar or pitch to make the ship watertight.
Rigging
The sails of ships in the 1500s were typically made of canvas. The sails were attached to masts and yards using ropes and pulleys. The masts were made of wood, and the yards were made of either wood or rope.
Propulsion
Most ships in the 1500s were powered by sails. However, some ships also used oars. Oars were typically used for maneuvering in tight spaces or when the wind was not strong enough to sail.
Armament
Many ships in the 1500s were armed with guns. The most common type of gun was the cannon. Cannons were typically mounted on the deck of the ship or in the gunwale. Other weapons used on ships in the 1500s included swords, spears, and bows and arrows.