It was an anti-tank infantry weapon created for the British army during the lack of artillery as a result of the Evacuation of Dunkirk. The weapon was so impractical and heavy that British soldiers refused to use them. Supposedly, soldiers were even trying to trade their Bombards for Thompsons! One officer even said they were good for nothing but "scrap iron!"
Here is the weapon as used with my Sikh HQ in Flames of War. Since my Sikhs were given the short-end of the supply stick in the war, which makes me even respect them more for the dedication.
The weapon was most effective in a hidden roadblock from a distance of 75-100 yards. I cannot imagine lying on my stomach in the dirt waiting for a Panzer to roll up that close to me before firing. I would definitely need a change of pants...
More information can be found at
Pillbox Study Group
I probably just like this weapon from my childhood of watching "American Gladiators."
This thing seems ten times worse than a PIAT, I think I would refuse to use it too, could you imagine waiting to get a shot off than missing?
ReplyDeleteI believe that it was the predecessor to the PIAT. Also, it was changed and adapted to an anti-submarine weapon called the "Hedgehog."
DeleteHaving to reload it IN FRONT of the gun shield is a "nice" touch too. :/
ReplyDeleteWelp. It's not like any of the operators would survive to reload anyway, I guess. The Sikhs found a bunch in the Middle East before heading to Africa. I can't see myself looking at them and falling in love with them, but hey, FREE Artillery!
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