Raking fire is a naval gunnery tactic in which a warship maneuvers to fire its broadside parallel to the long axis of an enemy vessel, usually from ahead or astern, enabling shots to rake through the target's length and cause extensive structural and personnel damage.[1]This approach maximizes the impact of cannon fire by penetrating multiple decks, disrupting rigging and sails, and limiting the enemy's ability to return fire effectively, as fewer guns can be brought to bear.