What is trench shotgun?

A trench shotgun, also known as a "trench gun," is a type of shotgun that was used in World War I and World War II by military forces. It was designed for close-quarters combat in trench warfare and is characterized by its short barrel and large magazine capacity.

One of the most famous trench shotguns is the Winchester Model 1897, which was modified for military use by adding a bayonet lug and a heat shield to protect the shooter's hand from the hot barrel. The Model 1897 was known for its reliability and effectiveness in combat situations.

Trench shotguns were often used by soldiers during trench raids, as the wide spread of the shot could easily take out multiple enemies at close range. They were also used for guarding prisoners and for providing security in areas such as trenches, bunkers, and other confined spaces.

Today, trench shotguns are still used by military and law enforcement agencies for specialized applications such as breaching doors, crowd control, and self-defense. They are also popular among civilian shooters for home defense and hunting.