The Army's Labor Union: Winchester 94s for the Loyal Legion of Loggers & Lumbermen

Published on August 30, 2021
Duration: 14:22

This entry details the unique Winchester Model 1894 'Spruce Gun,' procured by the US Army for logging operations during WWI. It covers identification features like 'U.S.' and flaming bomb proof marks, serial number ranges (835,000-853,000), and its .30-30 Winchester caliber. The context of its use by the Loyal Legion of Loggers & Lumbermen is also provided, highlighting its role in securing critical Sitka Spruce resources.

Quick Summary

Authentic Winchester 1894 'Spruce Guns' issued to the US Army during WWI can be identified by 'U.S.' and flaming bomb proof marks on the receiver, and serial numbers between 835,000 and 853,000. These lever-action carbines, chambered in .30-30 Winchester, were used for logging operations in the Pacific Northwest.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Spruce Gun
  2. 01:15The Importance of Sitka Spruce
  3. 03:15Labor Unrest and Colonel Disque
  4. 06:05The Spruce Production Division
  5. 08:00Arming the Division
  6. 09:25Identifying Authentic Spruce Guns
  7. 11:35LLLL Iconography

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I identify an authentic Winchester 1894 'Spruce Gun'?

Authentic 'Spruce Guns' are identified by specific military proof marks on the receiver, including 'U.S.' and a flaming bomb ordnance symbol. Additionally, their serial numbers typically fall within the range of 835,000 to 853,000.

What was the purpose of the Winchester 'Spruce Gun' during WWI?

The Winchester Model 1894 'Spruce Gun' was issued to the US Army Signal Corps during World War I for logging operations in the Pacific Northwest. Its primary role was to secure Sitka Spruce, a critical material for aircraft construction.

What caliber is the Winchester 'Spruce Gun'?

The Winchester 1894 'Spruce Gun' is chambered in .30-30 Winchester, which was also known at the time as .30 W.C.F. (Winchester Center Fire). This caliber was standard for many Winchester 1894 carbines and rifles.

What distinguished the Loyal Legion of Loggers & Lumbermen (4Ls)?

The Loyal Legion of Loggers & Lumbermen was an organization formed during WWI to stabilize the logging industry. Members often wore distinctive insignia, such as a brass collar pin symbolizing the materials they provided for the war effort.

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