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Zhentianlei (Heaven-Shaking Thunder)

Type Object Region China Time c. 1044–1130

The zhentianlei was a ceramic explosive firearm of the late Northern Song, with an iron or porcelain shell packed with gunpowder and shrapnel, markin…

Timeline

  1. c. 1044–1080Kaifeng Prefecture · HenanZeng Gongliang and others compiled the Wujing Zongyao, systematically recording gunpowder formulas and firearm manufacturing methods, laying the technical foundation for later explosive firearms.
  2. c. 1100–1120Northern Song Huai River and Hebei defense lines · ChinaIn the late Northern Song, thunderclap fire bombs, caltrop bombs and other incendiary and projectile firearms were issued at key frontier fortresses, while more heavily charged explosive devices were gradually tested.
  3. 1121–1130Huai River and Shandong battlefields · ChinaAfter 1121, Song forces used zhentianlei intermittently in city defense and field battles, detonating them by lowering them on ropes from walls or by hurling, inflicting casualties on Jin troops; records describe their sound as like thunder.
  4. c. 1130–1200Throughout northern and southern China · ChinaAfter the southern crossing, zhentianlei technology continued to be used and improved, providing experience for the later development of Southern Song iron fire bombs, fire lances and other firearms.

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