Weapon Trivia Wednesday: Trench Shotguns in WWI (NSFW Language)

Published on December 10, 2016
Duration: 1:16

This video details the controversial use of Winchester 1897 trench shotguns by American forces in WWI. It covers Germany's protest, the US diplomatic response, and the shotgun's unique 'slam fire' capability. The Winchester 1897 trench gun featured a 12-gauge chambering, a 20-inch barrel, and a bayonet lug, making it a formidable weapon.

Quick Summary

Germany protested the US use of Winchester 1897 shotguns in WWI, deeming them violations of the Hague Convention. The US dismissed this, citing Germany's use of gas and flamethrowers, and threatened retaliation for any US soldiers harmed.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: WWI Trench Shotguns & German Protest
  2. 00:33Winchester 1897 Slam Fire Demonstration
  3. 00:48US Diplomatic Response to German Protest
  4. 01:01Retaliation and War's End

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Germany protest the use of shotguns in WWI?

Germany formally protested the American use of shotguns in September 1918, claiming that weapons like the Winchester 97 violated the Hague Convention and the rules of warfare. They viewed the shotgun as an inhumane weapon.

What was the US response to Germany's protest about shotguns?

The US government dismissed Germany's protest, highlighting Germany's own use of chemical weapons like poison gas and flamethrowers. The US also threatened to execute German prisoners if any American soldiers were executed for carrying shotguns.

What is the 'slam fire' feature of the Winchester Model 1897?

The 'slam fire' capability of the Winchester Model 1897 allows for extremely rapid firing. By holding the trigger down, the shooter can fire the weapon each time the pump action is cycled, effectively emptying the magazine very quickly.

What were the key features of the Winchester 1897 trench gun?

The Winchester 1897 trench gun, chambered in 12 Gauge, typically featured a 20-inch barrel, a heat shield over the barrel, and a bayonet lug for attaching a bayonet. Its slam-fire capability was a notable feature.

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