This "Ask Ian" episode from Forgotten Weapons delves into why the M3 Grease Gun and its successor, the M3A1, did not utilize the double-stack, double-feed magazines common to the Thompson submachine gun, despite the potential logistical simplification. The explanation centers on the M3's design lineage from the Sten gun, which employed a single-feed magazine due to its inexpensive, stamped construction. The Thompson's magazine retention system, featuring a T-shaped lug that required a substantial milled receiver for its track, was incompatible with the M3's simpler stamped receiver. The video also touches upon other US submachine guns like the M2 and UD-42 that did adopt Thompson magazines, but these also featured more robust, blocky receivers capable of accommodating the retention mechanism.
You've reached the end! 1 videos loaded.
