M2-2 / M9A1-7

History

The M2 flamethrower was the primary flamethrower used by the U.S. military in and after World War II, succeeding the M1 series. It continued to be employed in the Korean and Vietnam Wars and is still utilized for testing in modern military settings. The M2 series saw greater production, with almost 25,000 units manufactured.

Fire's historical significance in warfare is notable, with "liquid fire" used by Germans during World War I. By the 1930s, the Germans had developed effective portable flamethrowers, inspiring the Allies to create their own M1 model. However, the M1 experienced reliability issues due to its ignition system, leading to the development of the M2, which incorporated an improved cartridge-based ignition system.

The M2 retained the M1's thickened fuel but introduced a more dependable ignition mechanism featuring a magazine with five rounds. This innovation enhanced reliability in combat scenarios, as reloading was required only after using all five rounds.

Specification

Fundamentals

Year of Service: 1943

Origins: United States

Manufacturer: State Factory - USA

Carrier: Australia; Brazil; Japan; Philippines; USA

Roles

Special weapons for specific characters on the battlefield.

Dimensions and Weights

Curb Weight: 67.90 lbs (30.80 kg)

Action

Rotating cartridge fires jet flame

Cartridges and Paper Feeds

Caliber: 4. 7 gallon nitrogen tank

Circle/Feed: 7 flamethrowers possible

POWER

Maximum efficiency. Arrived: 65 feet (20m | 22m)

VARIANTS

M2-2 - Initial Maintenance Model; World War.

2M2A1-2 - Korean War Model; Back Frame Straight Edge Frame; Safety Valve.

M2A1-7 - Updated M2A1-2 with a quad control scheme; used in the Vietnam War.

M9A1-7 - Light model; final model of the Vietnam War.