Thompson submachine guns are a type of firearm that were developed in the United States in the early 1900s. The correct spelling of this word is /ˈtɒmpsən sʌbməˌʃiːn ɡʌnz/. The first part of the word, "Thompson," is spelled with a "P" instead of a "Ph" because it comes from a Scottish name that was traditionally spelled that way. The second part, "submachine," is spelled with a "U" instead of an "O" because it is a compound word made up of "sub" meaning "under" and "machine" meaning "a device that performs a particular function."
Thompson submachine guns, often referred to as Tommy guns, are a type of firearm that falls under the category of submachine guns. Developed by American engineer John T. Thompson in the early 20th century, these guns became widely known and used during the Prohibition era in the United States and later gained popularity as military weapons.
Thompson submachine guns are classified as automatic firearms that fire pistol-caliber ammunition. They typically have a compact design, featuring a shoulder stock and a horizontal foregrip to provide stability during firing. The distinctive appearance of these guns includes a drum-like magazine that holds a large number of cartridges.
These weapons are primarily designed for close-quarters combat due to their rapid and continuous fire capabilities. The Thompson submachine guns employ a blowback operation system, where the energy from the fired round drives the bolt rearward to eject the spent cartridge and chamber a new one. This mechanism allows for a high rate of fire, making it effective in short-range engagements.
Thompson submachine guns have been used in various contexts, both in civilian and military settings. During the Prohibition era, criminal gangs and law enforcement personnel were commonly equipped with these weapons. They were also issued to soldiers during World War II and the Korean War. Today, Thompson submachine guns are considered iconic firearms and are often associated with the historical period in which they gained prominence.