Five common myths about military weapons, specifically focusing on the small arms of the United States. Some of these myths include misconceptions about the capabilities of specific weapons like the M1 Carbine, .50 BMG, M1 Garand, and machine guns, as well as misconceptions about the effect of suppressors. Drawing on historical data, expert analyses, and practical knowledge, the writer exposes the falsehoods behind these popular beliefs.
Key Points:
- A myth from the Korean War claimed that the .30 Carbine cartridge of the M1 couldn’t pierce heavy winter coats. This is false, as it has been proven to have similar velocities and energy levels to a .357 Magnum.
- The .50 BMG cartridge has been mythologized to create a lethal shockwave, capable of tearing off limbs or cutting deeply. This myth is disproven, and it doesn’t even create a shockwave strong enough to knock down a house of cards.
- A myth states that the ping sound made by the M1 Garand after firing its eighth round alerted enemy soldiers, leading to American soldiers getting killed. This is debunked by applying tactical knowledge and understanding the reality of combat situations.
- Contrary to the portrayal in video games and movies that machine guns are inaccurate, they are actually quite accurate and capable, used to support the movement of infantry forces.
- The idea that suppressors completely silence a gun is a myth. While they do cut a significant amount of noise, they cannot eliminate the supersonic crack generated by the projectile, and the firing is still loud. Suppressors mainly reduce noise and help with communication and control.
Source: https://www.sandboxx.us/news/debunking-5-of-the-most-common-gun-myths/
