M55 Reising edit
| M55 Reising | |
|---|---|
| Type | Submachine gun |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Service history | |
| In service | 1942–present |
| Used by | United States Marine Corps, various law enforcement agencies |
| Wars | World War II |
| Production history | |
| Designer | Eugene Reising |
| Designed | 1940 |
| Manufacturer | Harrington & Richardson |
| Produced | 1941–1945 |
| Variants | M50, M55, M60 |
| Specifications | |
| Cartridge | .45 ACP |
| Action | Blowback, closed bolt |
| Feed system | 20-round detachable box magazine |
| Sights | Iron sights |
Introduction edit
The M55 Reising is an American submachine gun designed by Eugene Reising in 1940. It was manufactured by Harrington & Richardson and used during World War II by the United States Marine Corps and various law enforcement agencies.
Development edit
Eugene Reising, a former employee of Colt Firearms, designed the M55 Reising. The weapon was intended as a cheaper and more compact alternative to the Thompson submachine gun. Production began in 1941 and continued until 1945.
Design edit
The M55 Reising is a blowback-operated submachine gun that fires from a closed bolt, making it unusual among submachine guns. It was designed for accuracy with features like a selective fire system and compact size, suitable for jungle warfare and urban combat scenarios.
Service history edit
The M55 saw significant use during World War II, particularly in the Pacific theater. However, it gained a mixed reputation due to reliability issues in harsh conditions. After the war, it continued to be used by police forces across the United States.
Variants edit
- M50 - The original model with a wood stock and capable of semi-automatic and fully automatic fire.
- M55 - A simplified version designed for paratroopers with a folding stock and shorter barrel.
- M60 - A training version with a wooden training stock and non-functional barrel.