Eight barrel organ

This model of machine-gun has a series of small-calibre gun tubes, called scoppietti (small bursters), mounted on a single gun carriage on wheels. A screw device regulates the inclination of the gun tubes. The fan-like shape allows to better face the attacks of enemy troops, widens the shooting field and reduces possible mistakes. As Leonardo notes in his letter to Ludovico il Moro, this weapon could be moved rapidly thanks to its modest dimensions.
Codex Atlanticus, sheet 157 1480-82