Book Review - Weapon of Choice by Dr. Matthew Ford

Published on July 9, 2017
Duration: 7:28

This video reviews 'Weapon of Choice' by Dr. Matthew Ford, a deep academic study of British military small arms procurement in the 20th century. While the cover suggests an action novel, the book delves into the complex interplay of politicians, officers, troops, and industry in weapon adoption, covering the SMLE, WWI developments, post-WWII NATO standardization debates (EM-2 vs. T65 cartridge), and later systems like the SA80 and FN Minimi. The review highlights the book's academic depth, which may require effort to digest but offers valuable historical insights.

Quick Summary

'Weapon of Choice' by Dr. Matthew Ford is a comprehensive academic study of 20th-century British military small arms procurement. It details the complex process of weapon adoption, stakeholder influences, and covers key firearms like the SMLE, EM-2, and SA80, offering deep historical insights beyond its action-novel-like cover.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction: Don't Judge a Book by its Cover
  2. 00:18Academic Nature of the Book
  3. 00:59Recommendation for Firearms Procurement Interest
  4. 01:06Book's Focus: British Military Small Arms Procurement
  5. 01:15Key Questions Addressed
  6. 01:30Stakeholders in Procurement
  7. 01:56Chronological Structure: Boer War & SMLE
  8. 02:20World War I Developments
  9. 02:25Post-WWII NATO Standardization Debate
  10. 02:31.280 vs. 7.62 NATO: EM-2, T65, FAL
  11. 02:56Cartridge Lethality as a Factor
  12. 03:36Enfield Weapons System & SA80
  13. 03:41FN Minimi / M249 SAW Adoption
  14. 03:56Interplay of Stakeholder Goals
  15. 04:41Two Layers of the Book: History & Sociology
  16. 04:55Academic/Sociological Language Example
  17. 05:55Who Should Buy This Book
  18. 06:24Value of Historical Insights
  19. 06:35Instructor's Educational Background
  20. 06:52Final Recommendation & Availability
  21. 07:11Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 'Weapon of Choice' by Dr. Matthew Ford about?

'Weapon of Choice' is an academic and historical study focusing on British military small arms procurement throughout the 20th century. It analyzes how various firearms were developed, adopted, and used, considering the complex influences of politicians, military personnel, and industry.

What historical periods and firearms are covered in 'Weapon of Choice'?

The book covers periods from the Boer War (SMLE adoption) through WWI, and significantly details post-WWII NATO standardization debates, including the EM-2 rifle and the 7.62 NATO cartridge. It also discusses the SA80 program and the adoption of the FN Minimi (M249 SAW).

Who would benefit from reading 'Weapon of Choice'?

This book is highly recommended for individuals interested in firearms procurement by the military, especially the British military. Readers who appreciate deep historical analysis and are willing to engage with academic prose will find significant value.

What is the main takeaway regarding the book's presentation?

The primary takeaway is that 'Weapon of Choice' should not be judged by its cover. Despite an action-novel-like dust jacket, it is a serious academic work offering extensive historical data and analysis on military firearms development and adoption processes.

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