Artillery: The longer-barrelled artillery piece gradually began to appear by the beginning of the 15th century as master artillerymen realized that accuracy was greater the smaller the caliber and the longer the barrel. In the case of the larger pieces the firing chamber was narrowed to concentrate the explosive force of the gunpowder Originally the barrels were forged from iron, but by 1440 copper and bronze barrels began to appear. These were fastened to the carriage by rings at short intervals, to prevent the barrel from exploding.
The artillery crews were generally recruited from the city craftsmen. The first records of an officer in charge of ordnance date from 1414,The Zeugherr, as he was known, was responsible for coordinating the Buchsenmeister. These master gunners were usually identical with the casters, and in the case of larger contingents were generally responsible for the heavier artillery pieces. On campaign these craftsmen (usually mounted) were accompanied by their journeymen as well as a complement of smiths, carpenters, rope makers and carters. Smaller field pieces were usually manned by trained volunteers.
The usual equipment consisted of a copper loading scoop, a ramrod, and a felt or brush 'sponge'. A bucket of water was always kept alongside the cannon. Acids were often added to the water to wash out the inside of the barrel and cloths and skins would be soaked in cold water and placed on the barrel to cool it down. A pan holding hot coals, supported on a tripod, was used to heat shot and/or keep the wire primer glowing. By the later half of the 15th century powder bags slowly began to replace loose powder, which had often caused problems for gun crews.

Swiss Banners: The banner-the cantonal or supreme Confederate standard - was the rallying point for each contingent or army, and was carried at the side of the oberster Feldhauptmann or commander. Beneath the rank of Feldhauptmann the most important rank was that of the Venner or ensign, who bore the standard during battle and otherwise kept it home. On the march the banner was usually carried by a bearer who was designated a section of bodyguards under the command of the Bannerhauptmann. The Zurich Bannerwache consisted of twenty-six bodyguards, two men from the Constafel contingent and two chosen from each of the twelve remaining guilds of the city.
Some examples of Swiss Banners

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