[1] Its operation and historical importance has led to it being portrayed in modern fictional works, notably in The Alamo feature film, and the Richard Sharpe series of novels by Bernard Cornwell.

[1] The weapon was invented by British engineer James Wilson in 1779,[2] and named after Henry Nock, the London-based armaments manufacturer contracted to build the gun.

[2] The simultaneous discharge of seven barrels with a single pull of the trigger would have devastating effect on the tightly packed groups of enemy sailors.

Furthermore, officers were reluctant to issue the guns during battle out of fear that the flying sparks would set fire to the surrounding rigging and sails.

[1] A smaller, lighter version was produced, which shortened the gun's range, but the recoil was still too powerful for sailors to feel comfortable firing it.