It was an improved version of the "Mitrailleuse", (English: Grapeshot shooter) invented by Belgian Captain Fafschamps in 1851 which was a fixed 50-barrelled volley gun.
It was inserted against the breech in one stroke and locked in with a hinged loading lever attached to the rear of the gun.
[5] The Montigny Mitrailleuse was built in numbers and used mostly to defend Belgian forts and other defensive positions.
[9] Manufacture began at Meudon in 1866 under the direction of Verchères de Reffye and the undisclosed assistance of Montigny.
[11] When the weapon was engaged at the Battle of Gravelotte in 1870, in an infantry support role and at shorter distances, it produced devastating effects.