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The Thompson's final modification turned it into the Thompson M1A1, which became accepted into the US military in the 1930's. A highly reliable weapon that did not jam often, the M1A1 was not capable of using a 50-round drum magazine, however a stick/box magazine holding 30 rounds proved to make the weapon less bulky and easy to pack. The grip of the weapon was also modified so it ran horizontal beneath the barrel, as opposed to the vertical grip it previously had. The rate of fire never changed however, and it was difficult to fire in full automatic without the spread of bullets becoming inaccurate. Although it did have a .45 caliber round, it was most effective at close range, but the range of the weapon itself was average.

The MP40, contrary to most WWII films, was not issued to the average soldier. Usually only squad leaders and superiors carried this weapon. The MP40 was accepted into the German Army in 1940. The jet-black smg used 9mm ammo, meaning that it used pistol ammunition. The rate of fire was slightly less than the Thompson's, and because of the caliber and ROF, it became one of the most accurate smg's of it's time. Unfortunately the safety mechanism, which was only a small slot for the bolt to slide into, could easily become dislodged with a good jolt. A trademark characteristic of the MP40 was it's 32-round stick/box magazine, that also served as a handgrip. Soldiers were instructed to grip the magazine near the top, otherwise the weapon could easily jam from pressure near the bottom of the magazine. Holding the connecting piece between the barrel and magazine feed often resulted in burns, further prompting the gunner to grasp the top of the magazine. Many soldiers commented that it improved their aim, although gloves were recommended when using the weapon.

If you are thinking about using these guns, please give me credit for the design.

German
MP40

Widely and incorrectly known as
the "Schmeisser" this was the first
modern all metal SMG with a folding
stock. A simple blowback weapon
it was designed by a committee at
ERMA Werke and adopted by the
Army in 1938. Initally meant only for
tank crews and mechanized infantry
it quickly became popular in the
Army-at-large. A very effective
submachine gun.

Rate of fire: 500rpm
Caliber: 9mm

German soldier with MP40 (WWII).