What Guns Did Bonnie and Clyde Use?
Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, two of the most infamous outlaws in American history, robbed banks, stores, and gas stations during the Great Depression, leaving a trail of chaos and violence in their wake. One of the most intriguing questions about their notorious crimes is what guns did they use?
The Early Days
Bonnie and Clyde’s criminal careers began in the early 1930s, and their gun choices were initially limited. They started with revolvers, particularly the Colt Model 1911 and the Smith & Wesson M1917, which were common among gangsters during that era. These guns were reliable, easy to handle, and effective for close-range shots.
Contents
Primary Firearms Used by Bonnie and Clyde
| Gun Model | Caliber | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Colt M1911 | .45 ACP | Semi-Automatic Pistol |
| Smith & Wesson M1917 | .45 ACP | Revolver |
| Thompson Submachine Gun | .45 ACP | Submachine Gun |
| M1921A2 Tommy Gun | .45 ACP | Submachine Gun |
Thompson Submachine Guns and Tommy Guns
As Bonnie and Clyde’s notoriety grew, they acquired more sophisticated firearms. They acquired Thompson Submachine Guns, specifically the M1921A2, which fired .45 ACP ammunition. These guns were notoriously effective at short range and were often used in urban areas where distances were short. They also acquired M1921A2 Tommy Guns, which were similar to the Thompson but had a fixed stock instead of a shoulder stock.
Civil War-Era Firearms
During their escapades, Bonnie and Clyde also used Civil War-era firearms, such as the Spencer Rifle and the Henry Repeating Rifle. These guns were often collected from abandoned armories or obtained from local residents. The Spencer Rifle was a repeating rifle that fired .56-50 Spencer cartridges, while the Henry Repeating Rifle fired .44 Henry cartridges.
Conclusion
Bonnie and Clyde’s firearms collection was a mix of modern and historic guns. They started with revolvers and later acquired more sophisticated firearms like the Thompson Submachine Guns and Tommy Guns. Their choice of firearms often depended on the situation and the distance they needed to engage their targets. The guns they used left a lasting impact on the public’s imagination, and their legend continues to captivate people to this day.
Guns Used by Bonnie and Clyde in Specific Crimes
- The Colt M1911 was used during the Bank Robbery in Joplin, Missouri (1933)
- The Smith & Wesson M1917 was used during the Murder of Deputy Eugene Campbell (1934)
- The Thompson Submachine Gun was used during the Battle of Public Enemy No. 1 (1934)
- The M1921A2 Tommy Gun was used during the Robbery of a Gas Station in Dallas, Texas (1935)
Important Facts
- Bonnie and Clyde’s gun collection was valued at $10,000 to $15,000, equivalent to approximately $200,000 to $300,000 in today’s currency.
- The guns were often stored in a hidden compartment in their car or in a fake gas tank.
- Bonnie and Clyde’s firearms were often left at crime scenes or discarded, allowing law enforcement to recover and analyze them.
In conclusion, Bonnie and Clyde’s firearms collection was diverse and evolved over time to suit their criminal activities. Their choices of guns played a crucial role in their crimes, and their legacy continues to fascinate the public.
