It is the height of the conflict.

Many shots have been fired, and many more will yet be required to subdue the enemy.

To be "out of action" will mean passiveness in the face of the enemy.
Anything but that.
There is a rivalry between the guns' crews.

It is a rivalry as to which shall make the best shots and create the most damage.

The members of Number Eight--the after gun on the port side--are proud of their record.
Their second captain--he whom they call "Hay"-- has received the public commendation of the captain himself, sent down from the bridge in the midst of the battle.