The Falconet Cannon (pre1800's)

      Falconets were invented during the late middle ages. They were light cannons that would fire a one-pound, round shot. These cannons weighed approximately 500 pounds and were heavily used in the American Revolutionary War, the English Civil War, and the 30 Years War. Even though these cannons were originally developed for use on land, they were quickly adapted for use in the defense of small ships. The cannons could be loaded with grape shot (a small bag filled with pellets), and fired to take out dozens of soldiers at one time.

      George Washington knew that cannons would play a crucial part in the Revolutionary War, so he drilled his soldiers continuously in loading and firing the cannons. The, when the soldiers were involved in an actual battle, loading and firing the guns was second nature and the soldiers were able to do it rapidly. This, in combination with the mobility of the Falconet, resulted in a truly deadly and versatile weapon. The barrel of this cannon was typically made out of metal while the wheels and base were made out of wood.


The metal ball below would be used for a falconet and would usually weigh about one pound.