This species of fire-arms became quite numerous about the beginning of the fifteenth century.

They were followed by heavier pieces, used in the attack and defence of towns.
This siege artillery continued to be increased in dimensions till, towards the latter part of the fifteenth century, they reached such an enormous size as to be almost useless as a military machine.

Louis XI.
had an immense piece constructed at Tours, in 1770, which, it was said, carried a ball from the Bastille to Charenton, (about six miles!) Its caliber was that of five hundred pounds.

It was intended for experiment, and burst on the second discharge.

The famous culverin of Bolduc was said to carry a ball from that city to Bommel.