M1 Thompson: Savage Simplifies the SMG
Forgotten Weapons・16 minutes read
The M1 Thompson submachine gun was a simplified version developed during World War Two to increase production and reduce costs, replacing the expensive M1928A1 model. The M1 featured several modifications, including the removal of extraneous features and improvements in the rear sight, controls, and safety lever.
Insights
- The M1928A1 Thompson submachine gun, while well-liked by the US military during World War Two, was expensive to manufacture and purchase due to unnecessary features, prompting the decision to simplify the design for increased production.
- The development and adoption of the M1 Thompson submachine gun in April 1942 marked a significant shift towards a more streamlined and cost-effective firearm, with modifications such as the removal of extraneous features, simplified controls, and a more efficient hammer-fired system.
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Recent questions
What changes were made to the Thompson gun in the simplified M1 version?
The M1 Thompson saw the removal of the Cutts Compensator, vertical front grip, and barrel fins. It featured a simplified rear sight, controls, and safety lever compared to the M1928A1. Disassembly remained similar, with improvements in the recoil spring system and bolt design.
When was the M1 Thompson officially adopted and what significance did it hold?
The M1 Thompson was officially adopted in April 1942, becoming the first submachine gun in the new series of designations. This decision came after talks in late 1941 to simplify the Thompson gun for increased production, leading to the development of the M1 version by Savage Arms Company.
How did the M1A1 pattern differ from the original M1 Thompson design?
The M1A1 pattern of the Thompson eliminated the hammer system, simplifying the design. The M1A1 bolt is interchangeable with the M1 Thompson bolt, making the upgrade process straightforward. Most M1 Thompsons were updated to the M1A1 configuration during their service life.
What challenges did Auto-Ordnance face during the production of the M1 Thompson?
Auto-Ordnance faced quality control issues due to a higher rate of fire in the M1 Thompson, eventually receiving a waiver from the Army. Savage aimed to produce 85-125,000 M1 Thompsons per month, delivering 48,000 in July 1942.
How did the M1 Thompson's firing mechanism ensure safety during operation?
The M1 Thompson retained a hammer-fired system, with the hammer and firing pin being spring-loaded. The firing pin only protrudes when the bolt is fully forward, preventing out-of-battery discharges. This design feature enhanced the safety of the weapon during use.
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Summary
00:00
Evolution of Thompson Submachine Gun: M1 Version
- The Thompson submachine gun M1 pattern is the original simplified version before the M1A1.
- The M1928A1 pattern was the well-liked, reliable, and durable gun available to the US military during World War Two.
- The M1928A1 was expensive to manufacture and purchase due to extraneous features.
- Talks in late 1941 led to the decision to simplify the Thompson gun for increased production.
- Savage Arms Company, subcontracted by Auto-Ordnance, developed the simplified M1 version by February 1942.
- Aberdeen Proving Grounds conducted tests on the M1 and recommended it for adoption in March 1942.
- The M1 Thompson was officially adopted in April 1942, becoming the first submachine gun in the new series of designations.
- Changes in the M1 included the removal of the Cutts Compensator, vertical front grip, and barrel fins.
- The M1 featured a simplified rear sight, controls, and safety lever compared to the M1928A1.
- Disassembly of the M1 remained similar, with improvements in the recoil spring system and bolt design.
13:24
Evolution of the M1 Thompson Submachine Gun
- The M1 Thompson retained a hammer-fired system, with the hammer and firing pin being spring-loaded. The firing pin only protrudes when the bolt is fully forward, preventing out-of-battery discharges.
- The M1A1 pattern of the Thompson eliminated the hammer system, simplifying the design. The M1A1 bolt is interchangeable with the M1 Thompson bolt, making the upgrade process straightforward.
- Savage aimed to produce 85-125,000 M1 Thompsons per month, delivering 48,000 in July 1942. Auto-Ordnance faced quality control issues due to a higher rate of fire, eventually receiving a waiver from the Army.
- The M1A1 pattern was recommended for adoption in September 1942, with the first deliveries occurring in late October. Most M1 Thompsons were updated to the M1A1 configuration during their service life, making intact M1 Thompsons rare to find.
