WW1 & WW2 Combat Shotguns | SOS 2022 Pt 2

Published on March 8, 2022
Duration: 21:26

This video explores various World War I and World War II combat shotguns, focusing on their historical significance and technical variations. It highlights the Ithaca Model 37 Trench Gun as a rare variant, discusses the effectiveness of combat shotguns in close-quarters warfare, and details differences between models like the Winchester 1897 and 1917, including features like heat shields, bayonet lugs, and proof marks. The presentation also touches on the controversial 'slam fire' capability and the German Army's reaction to early combat shotguns.

Quick Summary

Combat shotguns like the Ithaca Model 37 Trench Gun and Winchester 1897/1917 were vital in WWI and WWII for close-quarters combat. Key identifiers include heat shields (6 holes for WWI, 4 for WWII Winchester), bayonet lugs, and military proof marks. Some models featured 'slam fire' capability for rapid engagement, a tactic that proved effective but could increase wear.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: Rare Combat Shotguns
  2. 00:31Ithaca Trench Shotgun (Model 37)
  3. 01:01Reference Book: Canfield's Combat Shotguns
  4. 01:41WW1 Combat Shotgun History
  5. 02:31Philippine Rebellion & Early Shotgun Use
  6. 03:14Trench Warfare & Shotgun Effectiveness
  7. 04:15WWI Trench Gun: Model 1897
  8. 04:49German Reaction to Combat Shotguns
  9. 05:16Ithaca Model 37 Trench Gun Details
  10. 05:46Military Specifications: Lanyard & Sling
  11. 06:23Heat Shield and Bayonet Lug
  12. 07:03Stevens Riot Shotgun (Commercial Model)
  13. 07:14Riot Gun vs. Trench Gun Distinction
  14. 08:33Slam Firing Demonstration
  15. 09:40Second Variation: Stevens Riot Shotgun
  16. 09:58Other Manufacturers: Remington, Savage
  17. 10:10Riot Shotgun Purpose (MP, Guards)
  18. 11:36Last Two Variations: Type 97 & Model 1897/97
  19. 11:45WWI Model 1897 vs. WWII Model 97
  20. 12:00Model 12: Hidden Hammer Distinction
  21. 12:41Parkerized Model 12 (Late War)
  22. 13:03World War One Winchester Close-up
  23. 13:12Heat Shield Holes: 6 (WWI) vs. 4 (WWII)
  24. 14:14WWI Model 1897 Markings
  25. 14:49WWI Model 1897: No Stock Markings
  26. 15:19World War II Winchester Close-up
  27. 15:31WWII Model 1917 Markings ('US', Flaming Bomb)
  28. 16:25WWII Markings: Oval Winchester Logo, Flaming Bomb
  29. 16:52WWII Proofs: Guy Drury, Cross Cannon
  30. 17:18What the Heck Is It? Segment Intro
  31. 17:49DRGM Marked Item: Rifle Accessory?
  32. 18:15Mystery Item: Lens and Rear View Mirror
  33. 18:47Mystery Item: Nazi-Proofed Lighter
  34. 19:40Walther PPK 'W' Suffix Mystery
  35. 20:22RZ/M Markings on Holster
  36. 21:16Conclusion & Part 3 Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes a WWI combat shotgun from a WWII combat shotgun?

Key differences include the heat shield hole count (six for WWI Winchester 1897, four for WWII Winchester 1917), the presence of military markings like 'US' and inspector proofs on WWII models, and variations in stock markings. The Winchester Model 12, a WWII upgrade, features a hidden hammer, unlike the external hammers of earlier models.

What was the historical significance of combat shotguns in early 20th-century warfare?

Combat shotguns proved highly effective in close-quarters combat, notably during the Philippine rebellion where their stopping power was crucial against charging enemies. This effectiveness led to their adoption for trench warfare in WWI and continued use in WWII for similar close-range engagements.

What is a 'slam fire' feature on a combat shotgun?

Slam firing is a capability found on some pump-action shotguns where holding the trigger down allows the weapon to fire each time the action is cycled. While effective for rapid firing in combat, it could cause wear on the firearm.

What is the difference between a combat shotgun and a riot shotgun?

Combat shotguns, often designated as 'trench guns,' typically feature a heat shield and bayonet lug for close-quarters combat. Riot shotguns, used by military police or guards, generally lack these features as they were intended for crowd control or guarding duties rather than sustained frontline combat.

How can one authenticate a military combat shotgun?

Authenticity can be verified by examining specific features like heat shields, bayonet lugs, and the presence of military proof marks such as the 'Flaming Bomb' stamp and inspector initials. The absence of modifications, like a soldered-over bead sight on commercial models, also indicates originality.

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