History of the Thompson Sub-Machine Gun

This weapon, designed by John T. Thompson, was the original 'gangster gun' (and had nicknames such as the 'Chicago Typewriter' and 'The Chopper'), rising to fame during the 'Roaring' Twenties and used by such notables as Al Capone and John Dillinger. Originally it operated a form of blowback system, fired the .45 ACP cartridge and had a 50- or 100-round drum magazine but was modified over the course of its life. While one of the first firearms in Auxiliary Unit service, over time, many were replaced by the Sten Gun.