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A couple weeks ago I finished a book entitled Hell to Pay: Operation Downfall and the Invasion of Japan, 1945—1947, by D. M. Giangreco (Naval Institute Press, 2009) that covered and analyzed the planned, but later canceled, invasion of the home islands. While a tad dry, it was a otherwise fascinating read. There was some coverage of weapons development on both sides in preparation for the operation. However, nearly all of it was on much heavier equipment, and little on small arms.
I vaguely seem to recall experiments with making the M1 Garand box fed and select-fire in preparation for said, but my recollection may be in error. Ditto some tweaks to the M1919. Years back, I remember a Guns & Ammo article reference experiments with the Mondragón rifle in .30'06 in preparation of said; I was and remain skeptical of this claim, particularly in light if the arms already in service at that time.
Anyone know of any R&D work on small arms in preparation for Operation Downfall?
Thanks.
I vaguely seem to recall experiments with making the M1 Garand box fed and select-fire in preparation for said, but my recollection may be in error. Ditto some tweaks to the M1919. Years back, I remember a Guns & Ammo article reference experiments with the Mondragón rifle in .30'06 in preparation of said; I was and remain skeptical of this claim, particularly in light if the arms already in service at that time.
Anyone know of any R&D work on small arms in preparation for Operation Downfall?
Thanks.