Why did the suppressed Thompson lose out to the Sten? With firearm & weapon expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on July 24, 2024
Duration: 18:37

This entry details the development and comparison of a suppressed Thompson M1A1 prototype against the Sten Mk.IIS, as explained by Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms & Artillery at the Royal Armouries. It covers the technical specifications, design choices, and trial results that led to the Thompson's abandonment in favor of the M3 Grease Gun due to weight and size considerations.

Quick Summary

The suppressed Thompson M1A1 prototype lost out to the Sten Mk.IIS primarily due to its excessive weight (12 lbs) and length (40.6 inches), making it less practical than the more compact Sten. Furthermore, its mechanical action noise was significantly louder than the Sten's during trials, despite comparable muzzle noise reduction.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Suppressed Thompson
  2. 00:41Suppressor Design and Origins
  3. 02:13Internal Baffle Structure
  4. 03:14Barrel Modifications and Attachment
  5. 04:42Ballistics and Gas Management
  6. 06:10Historical Context and Timeline
  7. 07:59Development and Trials
  8. 09:20Trial Results and Comparison
  9. 12:08Why the Thompson Lost

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the suppressed Thompson M1A1 prototype less successful than the Sten Mk.IIS?

The suppressed Thompson M1A1 prototype was deemed too heavy (12 lbs) and long (40.6 inches) compared to the more compact Sten Mk.IIS. Additionally, its mechanical action noise was significantly louder than the Sten's during trials, despite comparable muzzle noise.

What were the key design features of the suppressed Thompson M1A1 prototype's suppressor?

The suppressor was adapted from the Sten Mk.IIS pattern, featuring a 1.5-inch diameter blued steel tube. Internally, it contained 15 solid domed baffles and a felt pad at the muzzle for sound dampening, with gas bleed-off holes in the initial chamber.

What historical context surrounds the suppressed Thompson M1A1?

This specific suppressed Thompson M1A1 prototype emerged in 1944, distinct from an earlier 1928 suppressed Thompson project. It was developed by the Armament Design Department in Hertfordshire and modified at Enfield.

What were the main reasons the Thompson project was abandoned in 1944?

The project was abandoned in favor of the M3 Grease Gun primarily due to the Thompson's excessive weight and length. Its louder mechanical action noise compared to the Sten also contributed to its unfavorable trial results.

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