The M3 submachine gun (SMG) is a popular World War II era firearm that is most commonly known as the Grease Gun. Originally developed in the waning years of the Second World War, the Grease Gun would eventually end up seeing most of its notable service during the wars in Korea and Vietnam. The idea behind the M3 SMG was simple; create a cheap, easily manufacturable firearm that could get the job done, and the Greaser did just that.
Time for Change
Towards the end of World War II, the United States was scrounging for ways to save on costs and decided it was time they replace the tried and true Thompson SMG. While the Thompson was effective and reliable, it was also costly and expensive to manufacture. The resulting M3 SMG proved to accomplish many of the goals, but it was far from perfect.
Making of the “Grease Gun”
Stemming from its purpose of being cheap to produce, the M3 Grease Gun earned its name from the way it resembled a cheap, mechanic’s tool. While the M3 succeeded in being cheaper to manufacture than its big brother, the Thompson SMG, it was hardly as precise. Both firearms were chambered for .45 ACP ammunition, but the extra care that went into the Tommy Gun’s creation clearly showed in practice. Still, the M3 was hardly a pushover, and being second-best to one of the best guns in American history is hardly a bad thing.
If you’re a true gun historian looking to experience these firearms first-hand, you’ll definitely want to book a D-Day gun range package at the Vegas Machine Gun Experience and see what the Grease Gun has to offer.
