FP- 45 Liberator

Published on August 10, 2012
Duration: 18:39

This video provides an in-depth look at the FP-45 Liberator pistol, a unique single-shot firearm from WWII. It details the historical context of its design as a 'get a gun' weapon for resistance fighters, its secret production by General Motors, and its basic operation. The review features a high-quality replica, highlighting its period-accurate packaging and manual of arms, while also discussing the limitations and intended psychological impact of the original weapon.

Quick Summary

The FP-45 Liberator was a single-shot .45 ACP pistol designed for WWII resistance fighters. Produced secretly by General Motors, one million were made to be air-dropped, allowing fighters to kill an enemy soldier and take their superior weapon. It featured a hollow grip for 10 extra rounds but lacked an extractor.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the FP-45 Liberator
  2. 01:16Replica Unboxing and Packaging
  3. 02:45Historical Context and Purpose
  4. 05:20Secret Production and Naming
  5. 06:03Manual of Arms and Features
  6. 08:39Live Fire Demonstration
  7. 10:15The 'Upgrade' Concept
  8. 12:31Final Historical Notes

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary purpose of the FP-45 Liberator pistol during World War II?

The FP-45 Liberator was designed as a 'get a gun' weapon. The plan was to air-drop these inexpensive, single-shot pistols to resistance fighters in occupied Europe and the Pacific. Fighters would use it to kill an enemy soldier and then take their superior rifle or submachine gun.

How many FP-45 Liberator pistols were produced, and how quickly?

To maintain secrecy, the project was codenamed 'FP-45' for 'Flare Projector'. Inland Manufacturing Division of General Motors produced one million units in approximately ten weeks during the summer of 1942, utilizing stamped metal parts for rapid assembly.

What are the key operational features of the FP-45 Liberator?

The Liberator is a single-shot .45 ACP pistol. It features a hollow grip storing 10 extra rounds and lacks an extractor, requiring a wooden dowel to eject spent casings. The original models were smoothbore and not very durable.

What made the FP-45 Liberator a unique weapon in WWII?

Its uniqueness stemmed from its intended purpose: a disposable, low-cost weapon for occupied territories, designed to be used once to acquire a better firearm. The sheer scale of production (one million units) and its clandestine nature also set it apart.

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