Intro
Explore the top 10 notable submachine guns of World War 2, featuring iconic firearms like the Thompson M1A1, MP 40, and Sten Gun. Discover their historical significance, design features, and combat roles in shaping the wars outcome. From the Eastern Front to the Western Theater, these SMGs played a crucial part in the wars most pivotal battles and operations.
The Second World War saw the widespread use of submachine guns, which played a significant role in the conflict. These firearms were designed for close-quarters combat, offering a high rate of fire and moderate stopping power. Here, we'll explore 10 notable submachine guns of World War 2, highlighting their development, features, and impact on the war.
Submachine guns were a relatively new concept during World War 2, having been introduced in the early 20th century. However, their popularity grew rapidly as nations realized their potential in urban warfare, trench fighting, and special operations. The versatility and firepower of these guns made them a staple in many armies, with some designs becoming iconic symbols of the war.
The Development of Submachine Guns
The development of submachine guns can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the first models emerging during World War 1. However, it was during the interwar period that these firearms gained popularity, with many nations developing their own designs. The submachine gun's design was influenced by the trench warfare of World War 1, where soldiers needed a compact, high-rate-of-fire weapon for close-quarters combat.
10 Notable Submachine Guns of World War 2
1. MP 40 (Germany)
The MP 40 was a iconic German submachine gun used extensively during World War 2. Designed by Erma Werke, the MP 40 was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition. Its folding stock and compact design made it an ideal choice for urban warfare and special operations.
2. Thompson M1A1 (USA)
The Thompson M1A1 was a popular American submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by John T. Thompson, the M1A1 was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired.45 ACP ammunition. Its robust design and high rate of fire made it a favorite among American soldiers.
3. Sten Gun (UK)
The Sten Gun was a British submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by Reginald V. Shepherd and Harold J. Turpin, the Sten Gun was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition. Its simple design and low production costs made it an ideal choice for mass production.
4. PPSh-41 (Soviet Union)
The PPSh-41 was a Soviet submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by Georgy Shpagin, the PPSh-41 was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 7.62x25mm Tokarev ammunition. Its high rate of fire and large magazine capacity made it a favorite among Soviet soldiers.
5. M3 Grease Gun (USA)
The M3 Grease Gun was an American submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by George Hyde, the M3 was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired.45 ACP ammunition. Its compact design and low production costs made it an ideal choice for special operations.
6. Bergmann MP 18 (Germany)
The Bergmann MP 18 was a German submachine gun used during World War 1 and World War 2. Designed by Theodor Bergmann, the MP 18 was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition. Its design influenced many subsequent submachine guns, including the MP 40.
7. Austen Gun (Australia)
The Austen Gun was an Australian submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by Charles Doulton and William Grant, the Austen Gun was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition. Its compact design and high rate of fire made it an ideal choice for jungle warfare.
8. Nambu Type 2A (Japan)
The Nambu Type 2A was a Japanese submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by Kijiro Nambu, the Type 2A was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 8x22mm Nambu ammunition. Its compact design and high rate of fire made it an ideal choice for urban warfare.
9. Erma EMP (Germany)
The Erma EMP was a German submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by Erma Werke, the EMP was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition. Its compact design and high rate of fire made it an ideal choice for special operations.
10. MAS-38 (France)
The MAS-38 was a French submachine gun used during World War 2. Designed by Manufacture d'Armes de Saint-Étienne, the MAS-38 was a select-fire, blowback-operated firearm that fired 7.65x17mm SR ammunition. Its compact design and high rate of fire made it an ideal choice for urban warfare.
Gallery of World War 2 Submachine Guns
Submachine Guns Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a submachine gun?
+A submachine gun is a lightweight, fully automatic firearm that fires pistol cartridges.
Which submachine gun was the most widely used during World War 2?
+The MP 40 was the most widely used submachine gun during World War 2, with over 1 million units produced.
What was the primary advantage of submachine guns during World War 2?
+The primary advantage of submachine guns during World War 2 was their high rate of fire and compact design, making them ideal for close-quarters combat and urban warfare.
In conclusion, the submachine guns of World War 2 played a significant role in the conflict, offering a high rate of fire and compact design that made them ideal for close-quarters combat and urban warfare. From the iconic MP 40 to the lesser-known MAS-38, these firearms were a staple in many armies, with some designs becoming legendary symbols of the war.