Book Review: Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story

Published on March 28, 2015
Duration: 3:52

This book review discusses 'Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story' by Tom Davis Jr. The book details the history of the Thompson submachine gun's use in Great Britain, focusing on procurement, usage, and historical context rather than technical specifications. It clarifies misunderstandings regarding British Thompson orders and pricing, drawing on extensive research in UK National Archives.

Quick Summary

The book 'Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story' by Tom Davis Jr. offers a deep dive into the historical procurement and usage of the Thompson submachine gun by the British government. It corrects historical inaccuracies, particularly those stemming from clerical errors in order books, and provides context on why and when these firearms were acquired.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction
  2. 00:07Book Introduction: Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story
  3. 00:20Origin of the Book
  4. 00:46Book Scope and Length
  5. 00:53Historical vs. Technical Focus
  6. 01:19Cuts Compensator Discussion
  7. 01:53British Thompson Procurement Numbers
  8. 02:05Self-Published Nature and Research
  9. 02:14Correcting Misunderstandings
  10. 02:51Niche Subject and Value
  11. 03:04Target Audience: WWII British History Enthusiasts
  12. 03:18Where to Purchase
  13. 03:21Labor of Love and Reprint Warning
  14. 03:42Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of the book 'Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story'?

The book 'Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story' by Tom Davis Jr. focuses on the historical aspects of the Thompson submachine gun's use in Great Britain. It details the British government's procurement process, the reasons behind purchases, and the timeline of their adoption, rather than delving into technical specifications or operational mechanics.

How did the book 'Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story' come about?

The book originated when author Tom Davis Jr. wrote an article about a 1928 Savage Thompson for Small Arms Review. His collaborator, James West, conducted extensive research in the UK National Archives, uncovering far more documentation than needed for the article, which then led to the development of this comprehensive book.

What kind of historical inaccuracies does the book address regarding British Thompson orders?

The book meticulously researches British Thompson orders to correct pervasive misunderstandings. These errors often stemmed from typos made by clerks recording payments and orders in the British Order book. Davis and West were able to identify these discrepancies and provide accurate figures and timelines.

Who would benefit most from reading 'Great Britain - The Tommy Gun Story'?

This book is highly recommended for individuals interested in the Thompson submachine gun, particularly those who enjoy detailed historical accounts. It is also a valuable read for enthusiasts of British military history during World War II, as it covers a significant and often overlooked aspect of the British war effort.

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