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.