Mortars have existed for hundreds of years, first finding usage in siege warfare. However, these weapons were huge heavy iron monstrosities that could not be easily transported. Simply made, these weapons were no more than an iron bowl truly reminiscent of the mortar where from they drew their name. An early portable mortar was invented by Baron Menno van Coehorn (siege of Grave, 1674). Great for your castle,battlefield or museum scene.