20 hailshot pieces were recorded as being on board the Mary Rose, but only four were recovered. While this might seem like a small number, it is four more than anybody else has!
Made of cast iron, this was an anti-personnel weapon, iron cube-shaped shot was loaded into a rectangular bore, which caused it to scatter upon firing, causing damage to any poor soul who might get in range. Each one weighs about 31lb (14kg), making them too heavy to hold when firing.
The fin on the underside would be hooked over a rail on the side of the ship, while the wooden stock would allow it to be directed safely, preventing the operator from burning himself on the hot metal.
