What is a tommy gun?

What is a Tommy Gun?

The Tommy gun, also known as the Thompson submachine gun, is a type of fully automatic firearm that was designed in the early 20th century. It is one of the most iconic and recognizable weapons in history, with a reputation for being both powerful and deadly.

Early History

The Tommy gun was invented by John T. Thompson, an American inventor and engineer, in the early 1900s. Thompson was a pioneer in the development of submachine guns, which were designed to fire at a high rate of speed and were intended for use in close-quarters combat. The first prototype of the Tommy gun was completed in 1916, but it was not until after World War I that the weapon gained popularity.

Design and Functionality

The Tommy gun is a select-fire weapon, meaning that it can be fired in either semi-automatic or fully automatic mode. In semi-automatic mode, the weapon fires one round with each trigger pull, while in fully automatic mode, the weapon fires continuously as long as the trigger is held down. The Tommy gun is fed by a detachable drum magazine, which holds up to 100 rounds of ammunition.

Key Features

Here are some key features of the Tommy gun:

• Caliber:.45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol)
• Rate of Fire: 600-800 rounds per minute
• Effective Range: 100-200 yards
• Weight: 10-12 pounds
• Length: 34-40 inches
• Barrel Length: 10-12 inches

Widespread Use

The Tommy gun gained widespread use during the Prohibition era in the United States, particularly among organized crime groups. The weapon’s ability to fire rapidly and accurately made it a favorite among gangsters and bootleggers. The Tommy gun also saw action during World War II, where it was used by the US military in various theaters of combat.

Notable Events

The Tommy gun has been involved in several notable events throughout history, including:

• St. Valentine’s Day Massacre: On February 14, 1929, a group of gangsters led by Al Capone used Tommy guns to massacre seven members of a rival gang in a Chicago garage.
• The Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping: In 1932, a ransom note was left at the scene of the kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh’s baby, which included a reference to a Tommy gun.
• The Battle of Stalingrad: During World War II, Tommy guns were used by both the German and Soviet armies in the brutal battle for Stalingrad.

Controversy and Ban

The Tommy gun gained a reputation for being a weapon of choice for gangsters and outlaws, leading to widespread calls for its ban. In 1929, the United States government banned the manufacture and sale of the Tommy gun, citing concerns about its use in criminal activities. The ban remained in place until 1986, when it was repealed.

Modern-Day Use

Today, the Tommy gun is still used by some law enforcement agencies and collectors, although its use is heavily regulated. The weapon’s popularity has also been revived in recent years, thanks in part to its depiction in popular culture, such as in films and video games.

Comparison to Other Submachine Guns

Here is a comparison of the Tommy gun to other submachine guns:

Conclusion

The Tommy gun is a legendary weapon that has been involved in some of the most significant events in history. Its design and functionality have made it a favorite among both law enforcement and criminals, and its reputation as a powerful and deadly weapon continues to this day.