WWII Tommy Guns: Kill or Be Killed — GMP#191

Published on July 14, 2023
Duration: 35:02

This episode delves into the history and combat use of the Thompson submachine gun during World War II, featuring personal accounts from veterans. It explores the weapon's development by John T. Thompson, its technical evolution through models like the 1921, 1928, M1, and M1A1, and its effectiveness in close-quarters combat. The discussion highlights the Thompson's historical significance, its perceived 'sex appeal' influencing its adoption, and its logistical availability despite its weight and cost.

Quick Summary

The Thompson submachine gun, particularly the M1A1, was effective in WWII combat due to its .45 ACP rounds fired at 800-850 RPM, delivering devastating stopping power in close-quarters. Despite its weight, its downrange effect made it valuable. The M1/M1A1 models featured side actuators and were designed for cheaper manufacturing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Guns Magazine Podcast
  2. 00:35Sponsor: 4Patriots Solar Go Fridge
  3. 01:25Sponsor: Creedmoor Sports
  4. 01:41Guest Introduction: Will Dabbs, MD
  5. 02:20Topic: Tommy Guns in World War II Combat
  6. 03:18Veteran Accounts of Thompson Usage
  7. 05:01Combat Story: Night Patrol with a Swapped Thompson
  8. 06:27Combat Story: French Village Engagement
  9. 08:58Combat Story: Prisoner Snatch Mission & Loss of Saul
  10. 11:56History of the Thompson Submachine Gun
  11. 12:16John T. Thompson's Background
  12. 13:47Development of the Thompson Submachine Gun
  13. 14:40The 1921 Thompson and Colt Manufacturing
  14. 15:09Cost and Early Market Challenges
  15. 15:46The 1928 Thompson and Rate of Fire Reduction
  16. 16:11Adoption as 1928 A-1 and British Purchases
  17. 16:45Evolution to M1 and M1A1 Models
  18. 17:12Thompson's Use in Vietnam
  19. 17:38Cultural Appeal of the Thompson
  20. 18:33Will Dabbs' Personal Connection to the Thompson
  21. 19:13Seattle Police Department Thompson
  22. 19:48Tangible Connection to History
  23. 20:01Appreciation for the Greatest Generation
  24. 20:23Podcast Outro and Sponsor Reminders

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Thompson submachine gun effective in World War II combat?

The Thompson submachine gun, particularly the M1A1, was effective due to its .45 ACP rounds fired at a high rate of 800-850 RPM, delivering devastating stopping power in close-quarters engagements. Despite its weight and design challenges, its downrange effect made it a valuable tool for soldiers.

When and where was the Thompson submachine gun developed?

The Thompson submachine gun's development began in the early 1920s, with the original 1921 models manufactured by Colt. Its roots trace back to John T. Thompson's work in ordnance and the concept of the Blish lock, with the intention of creating an ideal trench clearing weapon.

How did the M1 and M1A1 Thompson models differ from earlier versions?

The M1 and M1A1 Thompsons, introduced in 1942, were designed for more economical manufacturing. Key differences include the actuator moving to the side, a smooth barrel on the M1A1, fixed stocks, and the inability to accept drum magazines, limiting them to stick magazines.

Why was the Thompson submachine gun so popular despite being considered obsolete by WWII?

The Thompson's popularity stemmed from its historical mystique, influenced by gangster films and its association with John T. Thompson's ordnance achievements. Its perceived 'sex appeal' and the cultural familiarity from media made it a desirable weapon for soldiers entering combat.

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