After the development of the Stirrup, the Knight reigned over the European battlefield until the rise of gunpowder. At this time, Cavalry became a powerful force. Early on, mounted soldiers rode in lines ten deep, carrying wheel-lock pistols, firing one row at a time before riding to the rear. Against such mounted gunnery, metal armor and lances proved useless. Within a hundred years, most riders had stripped down to helmet, chest plate, and lance with pistol and sword as weapon.