Since the emergence of artillery in Russia in 1382, it has received significant attention. Foreigners visiting the country during the times of Ivan the Terrible and Alexei Mikhailovich noted the large number of cannons, which were distinguished by their beauty. Indeed, just looking at the 'Tsar Cannon' in the Kremlin is enough to appreciate the craftsmanship of Russian foundry workers.

Peter the Great modernized Russian artillery, bringing it in line with the contemporary standards of the time. He reduced the number of types and calibers of weapons and simplified the designs of carriages and mounts.

However, a problem arose with canister shot: when fired, most lead or iron balls would scatter over the heads of enemies or bury themselves in the ground. The cause of the vertical dispersion of canister shot was the round shape of the barrel.

Initially, attempts were made to solve the problem with a barrel of rectangular cross-section, but such weapons proved unreliable due to cracks at the corners caused by uneven loading.

To ensure that canister shot spread horizontally, barrels were made oval, and the loading chambers conical. This idea was proposed by General Field Marshal Count P. I. Shuvalov, and it was implemented by Major Musin-Pushkin and master foundry worker Stepanov. The 'Secret Howitzers of Shuvalov' were transported to positions with closed barrels to maintain secrecy.

The first combat use of the 'secret' howitzers occurred during the Seven Years' War in battles against Frederick II's army. At Gross-Jägersdorf, they played a key role in the victory. However, they were soon abandoned, as they could only fire canister shot.