Two RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) members mounted on their incredibly collectible Indian Motorcycle complete with side-car appear ready for action... can anyone identify their weapons and what would be the effect of firing that machine gun while the motor cycle is moving ?
The machine gun is a Lewis gun modified for its use on the motorcycle mount. The Flat, top mounted drum, and the bolt return spring housing in front of the trigger housing are features of the Lewis. Can’t see the smaller weapon well enough to do more than guess.
Caption for this image on Alberta Archives where you can get and enlarged image
http://www.archivesalberta.org/2006exhibit/paa1.htm
Provincial Archives of Alberta
The smaller weapon looks like an MP18
Alberta Provincial Police
The Alberta Provincial Police (APP) was established in 1917 to replace the Royal North-West Mounted Police. The APP served the entire Province, with about 100 detachments located across Alberta from the Montana border to the Peace River country.
Its initial function was to enforce Provincial prohibition legislation, but it soon developed into a broader police force - including such unusual duties as inspecting theatres, enforcing the School Attendance Act, selling fur trapping licenses, and even settling labour disputes. The fiscal realities of the Depression eventually forced the disbandment of the APP in 1932. It was replaced by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Drumheller Police motorcycle being used during labour disputes ca. 1923-24
Firing that lewis while driving?Hmm,on a straight hard surfaced road,driving with one hand and firing with the other,perhaps.But on a country road or off road alltogether ,not a chance I guess.I’m not sure but does the Indian have a front shockabsorber?