Battle of the Submachine Guns Pt.1: M1A1 Thompson

Published on December 5, 2014
Duration: 5:31

This video compares the M1A1 Thompson submachine gun with the M3 Grease Gun, highlighting the Thompson's cultural impact and WWII adoption. It details the M1A1's specifications, including its weight and forged steel construction, and demonstrates its controllability through a 20-round full-auto drill.

Quick Summary

The M1A1 Thompson submachine gun weighs 10.8 lbs and is chambered in .45 ACP. It was adopted during WWII due to availability and gained cultural fame. The M3 Grease Gun was developed as a simpler, more reliable alternative.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Thompson vs. Grease Gun
  2. 01:21Thompson Submachine Gun History & Impact
  3. 02:09M3 Grease Gun Overview & Comparison
  4. 03:48M1A1 Thompson Technical Specifications
  5. 04:22M1A1 Thompson Controllability Drill

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the M1A1 Thompson's weight and caliber?

The M1A1 Thompson submachine gun weighs approximately 10.8 lbs and is chambered in .45 ACP. Its forged steel construction contributes significantly to its overall mass.

Why was the M3 Grease Gun developed?

The M3 Grease Gun was designed as a more cost-effective, simpler, and reliable alternative to the M1A1 Thompson. It aimed to be easier to manufacture and maintain for widespread military use.

How does the M1A1 Thompson perform in full-auto?

During a controllability drill, the M1A1 Thompson was tested with a 20-round full-auto magazine dump at 10 meters, demonstrating its handling characteristics under rapid fire.

What is the historical significance of the Thompson submachine gun?

The Thompson submachine gun, particularly the M1A1 variant, gained significant cultural recognition through media and became a primary submachine gun for US forces during World War II due to its availability.

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