M3 Submachine Gun “Grease Gun” USA 1942

Description

The M3 Submachine Gun, commonly known as the “Grease Gun,” is an iconic firearm that was used by the United States during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It was developed as a lightweight and inexpensive alternative and replacement to the Thompson submachine gun.

The Grease Gun gets its nickname from its resemblance to a grease gun tool, common garage tool used to apply lubrication grease, with its tubular shape and crude appearance. The design was intentionally simplified to make it easier and cheaper to produce. The main body of the gun was made from stamped steel parts, reducing the need for machining.

The M3 was an automatic submachine gun designed in 1942 by George Hyde, an experienced German gunsmith who immigrated to USA after the First World War. The weapon was commissioned by the USA Army because of the effectiveness of the European submachine guns such as the German MP and the British Sten. Mass production started fast and M3 Submachine Gun saw extensive use during WWII. After World War II, the Grease Gun continued to be used widely during the Korean War and the Vietnam War and was still used to some extent in the Gulf War. It served as a reliable and effective weapon in various combat situations, including jungle warfare and urban combat.

The Grease Gun was primarily used by U.S. Army and Marine Corps troops, particularly tank crews, vehicle drivers, and support personnel. Its compact size and simplified design made it well-suited for close-quarters combat and rear-echelon roles.

The M3 Submachine Gun operated on blowback action and fired the .45 ACP pistol cartridges, same cartridges Thompson submachine uses. It had a rate of fire of around 450 rounds per minute and a effective range of about 100 meters. The gun was fed from a box magazine that could hold 30 rounds, and it had a simple blowback mechanism that provided reliable operation.

Despite its crude appearance, the Grease Gun gained a reputation for its durability, reliability, and ease of use. Its simple construction and lower manufacturing costs made it a widely distributed weapon among U.S. forces.

In later years, the M3 Submachine Gun was gradually phased out of frontline service as more modern firearms were introduced. However, some countries, law enforcement units and organizations still have the Grease Gun in limited use for specialized purposes and it has also been used in many modern conflicts.

The M3 Submachine Gun “Grease Gun” remains an iconic symbol of American military history and is recognized for its unique design and contributions to wartime efforts.

• This gun is an exact replica of the original. The replica matches the original in size and weight. The mechanisms of the weapon are working. The weapon can be cocked and dry fired like a real one. The magazine is detachable and the wire stock can be pulled out. Due to the materials used, the mechanisms cannot withstand continuous cocking and firing for long periods.
• Cast metal has been used to make this replica weapon. Zamac differs from steel in many respects, so the structure of the gun does not withstand pressure, it cannot be used to fire bullets, nor can it be converted to a functional weapon by any means.
• Replica guns such as this do not require permits in Finland, nor in many other countries. However, since the gun looks real, it should not be carried in public.
• A replica gun is perfect for historical re-enactment, on a theater stage, in film productions, for collectors of historical memorabilia, and as decoration.
• Length: 59 cm
• Weight: 3,145 kg
• Manufacturer: Denix, Spain