Thompson Submachine Gun

Published on September 3, 2016
Duration: 32:34

This review covers the iconic Thompson Submachine Gun, detailing its history from WWI design to Prohibition-era fame and WWII modifications. Hickok45 demonstrates its full-auto capability, compares different models (1921 vs. 1928A1), and explains its engineering, including the friction-delayed recoil system and caliber choice of .45 ACP. The video also touches on magazine types, field stripping, and its historical impact on law enforcement and legislation.

Quick Summary

The Thompson Submachine Gun, often called the 'Tommy Gun,' was originally designed for WWI but gained fame during Prohibition. John Thompson chose the .45 ACP caliber for reliability, and its significant weight helps manage recoil during full-auto fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Full Auto Demo
  2. 01:08Model Comparison: 1921 vs 1928A1
  3. 02:12Design Features & Engineering
  4. 04:47Russian Import History
  5. 05:33Period-Correct Firearms Showcase
  6. 06:25Development & Caliber Choice (.45 ACP)
  7. 07:43Magazines: Drums vs. Sticks
  8. 10:37Field Stripping Demonstration
  9. 11:42WWI Context & Commercial Sales
  10. 13:18The Gangster Era & Prohibition
  11. 15:33WWII Modifications (M1/M1A1)
  12. 17:38Historical Impact & Law Enforcement
  13. 19:27Handling & Recoil Control
  14. 21:16Caliber Comparison with 1911

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the 1921 and 1928A1 Thompson models?

The 1921 Thompson was an earlier, high-quality model, while the 1928A1 was a simplified, more mass-producible version often featuring a horizontal foregrip and different sights, designed for military and police use.

Why did John Thompson choose the .45 ACP caliber for his submachine gun?

John Thompson initially tried rifle calibers but found they caused reliability issues. Switching to the .45 ACP round proved more reliable and effective for a portable automatic weapon, establishing the submachine gun category.

What historical periods are most associated with the Thompson Submachine Gun?

The Thompson is famously linked to the Prohibition Era and gangsters like Al Capone, but it was originally designed for WWI trench warfare and later saw significant use by Allied forces in WWII.

How does the Thompson Submachine Gun handle recoil?

Despite its full-auto capability, the Thompson is known for its controllability. Its substantial weight effectively absorbs the recoil from the .45 ACP round, making it stable during firing.

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