America's famous and influential WWII submachine guns (SMGs) are all featured in this fully illustrated book. Beginning with the legendary Thompson submachine, its design, construction, and testing in the early 1920s, as well as its use by the US Marine Corps, the Irish Republican Army, and prohibition era gangsters is presented in detail. Its famed use during WWII in all war theaters is shown in superb period photography and clear, up-close color images. Also featured are chapters on other US WWII era submachine guns: the M3 Grease Gun, Reising SMG, and the United Defense M42 (UD M42). Accessories such as magazines, ammunition, webbing, and cleaning kits are featured throughout the book, as well as rarely seen WWII-related uniform and equipment items.