According to  Lanoe Hawker, the weapon was a quick firing gun of about 40mm. (although I have seen reference to 20mm also).
The rounds were incendiary/pyrotechnic and it was the 'burst' of fire which gave them their nick name. Because the rounds ascended in quick succession they appeared to be linked but were,** in fact, not.
Thats about all i know but very keen to hear more.
regards
Darryl
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Nunquam obliviscar
Not here are the goblets glowing,
Not here is the vintage sweet;
'Tis cold as our hearts are growing,
And dark as the doom we meet.
But stand to your glasses, steady!
And soon shall our pulses rise:
A cup to the dead already-
Hurrah for the next that dies!
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