Fire lance

A fire lance was an early Chinese weapon from the 10th century, combining a spear with gunpowder technology. It looked like a spear with a tube attached, which could shoot flames, sparks, or small explosive charges when ignited. Essentially, it was a cross between a spear and an early form of a firearm or incendiary device. The fire lance marked a transition from traditional melee weapons to the use of gunpowder in warfare, paving the way for the development of more advanced incendiary and projectile weapons.