This section brings together the approximately 700 objects and photographs used in Canada's Naval History. Use this section to directly access objects and photographs grouped by type, as shown below, or use the search function above to search through them by title.

Lewis Machine-Gun

The Lewis machine-gun, usually called a "Lewis gun", was a weapon commonly installed on Canadian merchant ships.

First used during the First World War, the Lewis gun also saw widespread naval use during the Second World War. A flat drum on top of the weapon held ammunition (centre left), while an air-cooling jacket around its barrel created a distinctive profile (right). Fitted singly or in pairs on simple mountings, Lewis guns were used for anti-aircraft and general defence, but due to their limited range and effectiveness against aircraft they were gradually replaced by heavier weapons as the war progressed.

Machine-gun, Lewis Light, Model 1914
CWM 19620017-006