Breech-loading weapon

From as far back as the 14^th century, around 1370, there were weapons known as breach-loading weapons. They were cannons equipped with a swivel so that they could be rotated. They were loaded by inserting mug-shaped chambers that were already filled with powder and projectiles. This weapon had a high rate of fire, which was needed. For centuries Europe, Asia and Africa used these guns. An early description says that the weapon weighed about 118kg and fired a 280g lead shot.

Carronade Cannon

The carronade is named after its developer/manufacturer the Carron Iron Company of Falkirk. It was made in the 1770’s and these cannons were introduced into the Royal Navy during the Revolutionary War. They were only fitted at the captain’s wish until the Napoleonic War.  Carronades were made with 12, 18-24, and 32 calibres, maybe some smaller or larger.  In 1795 they put these cannons on ships which worked a lot better than the one pounder swivel guns that they previously had.