From this account, it seems that <i>unspiking</i> guns should be allowed, even if not necessarily at 100% probability.
<i>O.R.-- SERIES I--VOLUME XXXVIII/3 [S# 74]
May 1-September 8, 1864.--THE ATLANTA (GEORGIA) CAMPAIGN
No. 486.--Report of Capt. Francis De Gress, Battery H, First Illinois Light Artillery.
The enemy charged our works about 4 p.m.; was repulsed in my front, but broke through our center, and changing front charged my battery, which I was obliged to leave after spiking the guns, and after all my support had left me. <i><b>As soon as my battery was recaptured I had the guns unspiked and fired again at the retreating enemy.</b></i> One of my guns, injured since the 25th of June, burst at the third round. My losses(*) on that day were very heavy--14 men, 39 horses, 1 limber, ambulance, and harness. Replaced lost horses and harness from Battery A, and had battery in marching order by 9 o'clock the following day. July 27, withdrew the battery and marched all night, with division, to the extreme right of our line; went into position in rear of our line, and advanced into position July 31, firing at the rebel forts and city.</i>
Brig. Gen. Rich White
3rd Brig. III Corps
Phantom Cav. Div.
ANV
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