Weapons and equipment Books

Book SynopsisAn insight into the design, construction and opera, The Soviet T-34 was the most produced tank of the Second World War and its revolutionary sloping armour became a major influence on future tank design. With its combination of heavy firepower, mobility and protection, the T-34 gave the Red Army a war-winning weapon with which to break the German Army on the Eastern Front., A mainstay of the Soviet armoured divisions, it was widely exported after the war and in 2017 it remains in frontline service with many third world countries., Author Mark Healy combines a detailed technical examination of the T-34 with its legendary combat history., Mark Healy is the author of several books including Midway 1942, The Tiger Tank Story and Zitadelle: The German Offensive against the Kursk Salient 14-17 July 1943. He also produced the best-selling video series Die Deutschen Panzer. He lives in Dorset.,Table of ContentsHaynes Manual treatment of the most successful tank of the Second World War. In series with the Haynes Tiger, Panzer III, Churchill and Sherman Tank Manuals. Authoritative text. Specially commissioned artwork. Fully illustrated with more than 250 photographs and line drawings.

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Book SynopsisAusführung A to G (Sd.Kfz.142), The German Sturmgeschütz series of assault guns was a successful and cost-effective range of armoured fighting vehicles, of which some 10,000 were built during the Second World War. Based on the chassis of the Panzer III tank, the turret was replaced by an armoured fixed superstructure fitted with a more powerful 7.5cm StuK 40 L/48 gun. Originally intended as a mobile assault weapon for infantry support, the StuG was constantly modified and saw extensive use on all battlefronts as an assault gun and tank destroyer. Its fixed superstructure with limited-traverse mounting for the main armament was simpler and cheaper to build than the turret of the battle tank, plus its low height meant it was easy to camouflage and conceal. Towards the end of the war, more StuGs were built than tanks., StuGs also saw combat when used by several Axis allies, notably Romania and Finland; they were also exported TO Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, and Spain. The Soviet Union gave some of their captured German vehicles to Syria in the 1950s, which continued to use them up until the War over Water against Israel in the mid-1960s. By the time of the Arab-Israeli Six-Day War in 1967, all of them had been either destroyed, stripped for spare parts, or emplaced on the Golan Heights as static pillboxes., Author: Mark Healy is the author of the Haynes T-34 Tank and Panther Tank Manuals as well as Midway 1942, The Tiger Tank Story and Zitadelle: The German Offensive against the Kursk Salient 14-17 July 1943. He also produced the best-selling video series Die Deutschen Panzer. He lives in Dorset.

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Book SynopsisIn the summer of 1942, Stanley Lovell, a renowned industrial chemist, received a mysterious order to report to an unfamiliar building in Washington, D.C. When he arrived, he was led to a barren room where he waited to meet the man who had summoned him. After a disconcerting amount of time, William ‘Wild Bill’ Donovan, the head of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), walked in the door. ‘You know your Sherlock Holmes, of course,’ Donovan said as an introduction. ‘Professor Moriarty is the man I want for my staff... I think you’re it.’Following this life-changing encounter, Lovell became the head of a secret group of scientists who developed dirty tricks for the OSS, the precursor to the CIA. Their inventions included Bat Bombs, suicide pills, fighting knives, silent pistols, and camouflaged explosives. Moreover, they forged documents for undercover agents, plotted the assassination of foreign leaders, and performed truth drug experiments on unsuspecting subjects.Based on extensive archival research and personal interviews, The Dirty Tricks Department tells the story of these scheming scientists, explores the moral dilemmas that they faced, and reveals their dark legacy of directly inspiring the most infamous program in CIA history: MKULTRA.Trade ReviewThe Dirty Tricks Department is a fascinating tale vividly told, full of sabotage and skulduggery, deviousness and invention, and populated by a cast of remarkable characters. James Bond meets Sherlock Holmes – but in deadly serious real life. -- H.W. Brands * New York Times bestselling author of the Pulitzer Prize finalists Traitor to His Class and The First American *

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Book SynopsisDuring the Second World War, the Germans considered the Royal Artillery to be the most professional arm of the British Army: British gunners were accurate, effective and efficient, and provided fire support for their armoured and infantry colleagues that was better than that in any other army.However, the Royal Artillery delivered much more than field and medium artillery battlefield support. Gunner regiments manned antitank guns on the front line and light anti-aircraft guns in divisional regiments to defend against air attack at home and abroad. The Royal Artillery also helped to protect convoys that brought essential supplies to Britain, and AA gunners had their finest hour when they destroyed the majority of the V-1 flying bombs launched against Britain from June 1944.Richard Doherty delves into the wide-ranging role of the Royal Artillery, examining its state of preparedness in 1939, the many developments that were introduced during the war – including aerial observation and self-propelled artillery – the growth of the regiment and its effectiveness in its many roles. Royal Artillery in the Second World War is a comprehensive account of a British Army regiment that played a vital role in the ensuing Allied victory.

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Book SynopsisA brilliant and bloody examination of the axe's foundational role in human history, from prehistoric violence, to war and executions, splashed across newspaper headlines and popular culture. For as long as the axe has been in our hands, we have used it to kill. Much like the wheel, the boat, and the telephone, the axe is a transformative piece of technology ? one that has been with us since prehistory. And just as early humans used the axe to chop down trees, hunt for food, and whittle tools, they also used it to murder. Over time, this particular use has endured: as the axe evolved over centuries to fit the needs of new agricultural, architectural, and social development, so have our lethal uses for it. Whack Job is the story of the axe, first as a convenient danger and then an anachronism, as told through the murders it has been employed in throughout history: from the first axe murder nearly half a million years ago, to the brutal harnessing of the axe in warfare, and from its use in King Henry VIII's favourite method of execution, to Lizzie Borden and the birth of modern pop culture. Whack Job sheds brilliant light on this familiar implement, this most human of weapons. This is a critical examination of violence, an exploration of how technology shapes human conflict, the cruel and sacred rituals of execution and battle, and the ways humanity fits even the most savage impulses into narratives of the past and present.

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Book SynopsisModern Artillery brings together 300 of the most important examples of artillery used or designed since 1900. Beginning with the guns that pounded the trenches in World War I, the book details all the major forms of artillery in service throughout the century. From hand-held anti-tank devices, anti-aircraft guns and field pieces of World War II to the recent tactical and strategic missiles, the book provides a wide survey of the development and use of artillery, with the entries conveniently placed into categories for easy reference. Each artillery piece featured is illustrated by a full-colour artwork and accompanied by a detailed specifications table giving the country of origin and technical details of the weapon, including where appropriate the calibre, elevation, muzzle velocity, traverse and range, all measurements being provided in imperial and metric. Each entry also contains a piece of text summarizing the weapon’s development and service history. Presented in a handy, pocket-book size, arranged by type and with 300 colour illustrations, Modern Artillery is an authoritative and accessible reference work, which will appeal to anyone with an interest in military technology.Table of ContentsIntroduction Almirante Padillo 155mm Model 77 Howitzer 22.5cm Heavy Trench Mortar 24.5cm Heavy Trench Mortar 149mm Skoda Model 14 Howitzer Skoda 75mm Mountain Gun M1915 Skoda 305mm Howitzer SBA T-70 ASTROS 2 Avibras X-40 Sexton CSS-1 CSS-2 CSS-3 CSS-4 Type 63 155/45 Norinco SP Gun Type 70 Type 63 47mm Skoda vz 36 10cm Skoda Light Howitzer vz 14/19 M53/59 DANA D-3000 Walid Canone de 75 Mle 1897 Canon de 105mm Schneider Mle 1913 155mm Rimailho Howitzer Model 1904TR 155mm Gun Model TR 155mm Howitzer Mle 1950 194mm Gun GPF Canon de 240 L Model 1884 St Chamond Mortier de 280 sur Chenilles 20mm Tarasque Brandt 60mm LR Gun-mortar 81mm Mortar Mle 27/31 Brandt 120mm Mortar Pluton SSBS S-3 Crotale Mistral Canon de 240 Mle 93/96 sur Affuit-truck St-Chamond Canon de 320 Mle 1870/93 sur Affuit-truck Schneider AMX-13 DCA Mk F3 155mm GCT 155mm Roland Krupp 75mm Field Gun M1903 7.5cm Infantry Gun IG18 75mm Mountain Gun Geb. G. 36 77mm FK16 77mm Field Gun M96nA 10cm M1917 Gun 105mm leFH 18 105mm leFH18(M) 120mm Krupp Howitzer M1905 13.5cm FK 1909 15cm L/40 Feldkanone i.R. 15cm Field Howitzer FH17 sFH18 21cm Howitzer 21cm Mrs 18 The Paris Gun 28cm Kustenhaubitze Big Bertha Rheinmetall Rh202 20mm Flak 30 20mm Flakvierling 38 37mm Flak 37 37mm Flak 43 5cm Flak 41 77mm German 1914 88mm Flak 18 88mm Flak 41 105mm Flak 38 12.8cm Flak 40 7.92mm Panzerbuchse 39 Granatbuchse 39 2.8cm Panzerbuchse 41 37mm Anti-Tank Gun 1918 37mm Pak 35/36 5cm Pak 38 75mm Pak 40 75mm Pak 41 8cm PAW 600 Raketenpanzerbuchse 43 88mm Pak 43/41 Flak 18 12.8cm Pak 44 12.8cm K44 Panzerfaust SGrW 34 81mm Mortar 15cm sIG 33 infantry gun Henschel Hs117 Schmetterling 21cm K12(E) 28cm K5(E) 80cm Gustav German Armoured Trains 38cm Gun ‘Max E’ Gepard StuG III Ausf F StuG III Ausf G sIG 33 Hummel Panzerhaubitse 2000 Panzerwerfer 42 Wurfgranate 42 Nebelwerfer 41 Light Artillery Rocket System (LARS) 155mm Howitzer FH-70 Soltam M68 Gun TCM-20 Soltam 120mm Mortar B-300 Light Support Weapon Rascal Light 155mm SP Howitzer 65mm Mountain Gun Canonne da 75/27 Obice de 75/18 Mod 35 OTO-Melara 105mm Mod 56 149mm Siege Gun, Model of 1877 Obice da 210/22 305mm Howitzer 305/17 Mod 17 20mm Breda Model 35 40mm Breda 40/L/70 45mm Brixia Model 35 Mortar AP/AV 700 multiple grenade launcher SIDAM-25 76mm Otomatic Air Defence Tank Palmaria Type 35/75mm Gun 15cm Howitzer M1915 75mm Type 88 Type 97 Anti-tank Rifle Type 2 Anti-tank Grenade Launcher 47mm Model 01 Anti-tank Gun 50mm Type 89 Grenade discharger 70mm Battalion Gun Type 92 Type 81 Tan-SAM Type 4 Army 20cm Rocket Polish Armoured Train 155mm ODE FH-88 Gun- howitzer CIS-40-AFL Grenade launcher 155mm Gun G-5 G-6 Valkyr 155mm Santa Barbara SB- 155/39 Howitzer 155mm Howitzer FH-77A 40mm Bofors L/60 40mm Bofors L/70 75mm Bofors Model 29 Bofors 75mm Model 34 Bofors RBS-70 Bandkanon Oerlikon GAI-BO1 Oerlikon 20mm Oerlikon GDF-001 35mm RSD 58 GDF-CO3 ADA TS 2.75in Mountain Gun Ordnance QF 13pdr 15pdr BLC Field Gun QF 15pdr Gun Mk 1 Ordnance QF 18pdr Gun Ordnance QF 4.5in Howitzer Ordnance BL 60pdr Mk 1 105mm Light Gun L118 Ordnance BL 5in Howitzer Mk I Ordnance BL 5.5in Gun Mk 2 BL 6in 26-cwt Howitzer Mk 1 BL 6in 30cwt Howitzer 155mm Royal Ordnance Light Towed Howitzer 7.2in Howitzers Marks 1 to 4 BL 8in Howitzer Mark 7 Polsten 20mm Ordnance QF 3in 20cwt 13pdr 9cwt AA Gun 3.7in QF Gun Mk 1 Ordnance QF 4.5in Gun .55in Boys Anti-tank Rifle QF 2pdr Mk VII QF 6pdr 7cwt Gun Mk 2 2.5in Northover Projector Ordnance QF 17pdr Gun 3.7in RCL Gun PIAT 95mm Infantry Howitzer Ordnance ML 3in Mortar Thunderbird Seaslug Bloodhound Blowpipe Rapier Starstreak 12in Railway Howitzer Mk 5 13.5in Gun ‘Sceneshifter’ Bishop Abbot AS-90 2in Rocket 3in Rocket Land Mattress 105mm Howitzer M2A1 105mm Howitzer M3 4.7in Field Gun M1906 155mm Gun M2 155mm Howitzer M198 8in Howitzer M1 240mm Howitzer M1 16in M1919 Coast Gun 914mm Mortar ‘Little David’ M167 Vulcan 37mm M1A2 3in M3 90mm M1 37mm Anti-tank Gun M3 M1A1 2.36in Rocket Launcher 3in Gun M5 106mm RCL Rifle M40A1 M203 Grenade launcher 60mm Mortar M1 60mm Mortar M19 75mm Pack Howitzer M1A1 RAW (Rifleman’s Assault Weapon) SMAW Rocket, MGR-1B, Honest John Pershing MGM-118 Peacekeeper Titan LGM-30F Minuteman 2 BGM-109G Tomahawk Nike Ajax Nike Hercules Talos M48 Chaparral MIM-104 Patriot MIM-23 HAWK FIM-92 Stinger M163 Vulcan M42 Sergeant York M56 M7 Priest M40 M109 M109A6 Paladin M110A2 M8 4.5in MLRS 76.2mm Field Gun M1942 76.2mm Field Gun M1939 122mm D-30 15cm Gun M1877 152mm Gun-Howitzer M1937 (ML-20) 152mm Howitzer M1943 (D- 1) 152mm Howitzer M09/30 203mm Howitzer M1931 (L/25) 23mm ZU-23 85mm M39 PTRS 1941 Anti-tank Rifle PTRD 1941 Anti-tank Rifle 76.2mm Model 1942 AGS-17 Grenade launcher 82mm PM-37 Mortar 82mm Vasilek automatic mortar 120mm M1938 Mortar 160mm Mortar M1943 SS-1 Scud B SS-12 Scaleboard SS-4 Sandal SS-5 Skean SS-11 Sego SS-9 Scarp SS-13 Savage SS-17 Spanker SS-19 Stiletto SS-18 Satan SS-20 Saber SA-1 Guild SA-3 Goa SA-4 Ganef SA-6 Gainful SA-7 Grail SA-8 Gecko ZSU-23-490mm M1 ZSU-57-2 ASU-57 SU-76 M1974 ISU-152 M1973 M-13 M-30 BM-21 BM-27 BM-24 FROG-7 Index

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Book SynopsisRome's rise to empire is often said to have owed much to the efficiency and military skill of her armies and their technological superiority over barbarian enemies. But just how 'advanced' was Roman military equipment? What were its origins and how did it evolve? The authors of this book have gathered a wealth of evidence from all over the Roman Empire - excavated examples as well as pictorial and documentary sources - to present a picture of what range of equipment would be available at any given time, what it would look like and how it would function. They examine how certain pieces were adopted from Rome's enemies and adapted to particular conditions of warfare prevailing in different parts of the Empire. They also investigate in detail the technology of military equipment and the means by which it was produced, and discuss wider questions such as the status of the soldier in Roman society. Both the specially prepared illustrations and the text have been completely revised for the second edition of this detailed and authoritative handbook, bringing it up to date with the very latest research. It illustrates each element in the equipment of the Roman soldier, from his helmet to his boots, his insignia, his tools and his weapons. This book will appeal to archaeologists, ancient and military historians as well as the generally informed and inquisitive reader.Trade ReviewThis was a 'must read' from the moment it was published… the 2006 second edition was even better. * Ancient Warfare Magazine *Table of ContentsThe representational evidence The archaeological evidence The documentary evidence The republican period From Augustus to Hadrian The Antonine revolution The army in crisis The dominate Production and technology The study of military equipment Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThis Naval and Military Press series on military technology continues with this very important publication, which gives details of all ammunition in use by the British Army in 1936 With few exceptions, it covers ammunition, explosives and propellants in service just prior to the start of the Second World War.Every military historian, war gamer, re-enactor and reader should be familiar with the technology associated with the tactics, and this series of reprints aims to provide that information. No true, objective appreciation of tactical operations is possible without a basic knowledge of the weapons and ammunition being used at a specific point in time, and the series will serve as a continuing source of the relevant information.This volume looks in detail at explosives, cartridges, tubes and primers in detail. It also gives a treatment of projectiles, explaining the form of shells, and how they are designed for their purpose. There is a detailed examination of time fuses (the proximity fuse being still a dream in 1936). Small arms ammunition is described, as are grenades (including the famous Mills 36) and a section deals with military explosives.There is a wealth of illustration including many colour plates and the book is an essential to any study of the British Army and its equipment at the start of World War II.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides a concise introduction to the increasingly important field of forensic mental health. It aims to set out both the key concepts in forensic mental health as well as the way the discipline operates in the broader context of criminal justice and mental health care systems. It will provide an ideal introduction to the subject for students taking courses in universities and elsewhere, for mental health practitioners in the early stages of their careers, and for professionals from other agencies needing an informed and up-to-date account of forensic mental health.Trade Review"'I believe that this will be an invaluable reference guide to anyone who is entering (or thinking of entering) the field, While it may have its greatest appeal to the novice practitioner who wishes to understand the difficult terrain, it will also benefit the more established practitioner provided that he/she is prepared to listen to what it has to say.' Professor Conor Duggan"Table of Contents1. Introduction: The Criminal Justice System and Mental Health Legislation 2. Mental Disorder and Offending 3. Entering the Forensic Mental Health System 4. Forensic Mental Health Services 5. The Multidisciplinary Team 6. Risk Assessment 7. Treatments in Prison and Probation Services 8. Treatments in Mental Health Settings 9. Leaving the System, Patients' Rights and Advocacy

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Book SynopsisThis title presents a detailed account of the development of swords, sabres, spears and lances illustrated with over 230 photographs and images. It provides a fascinating history of edged weapons, written by a leading antique sword expert and lavishly illustrated with over 230 images. It includes information on Japanese, Chinese, African and Indian swords as well as covering in detail the development of the weapon in Western Europe. It contains descriptions of the fighting techniques of some of the most skilful warriors of their time, including the hoplite spearmen of ancient Greece, Roman gladiators, and the Japanese Samurai. It is a superb reference work for military historians, curators, and all enthusiasts of edged weaponry of every period. This book traces the fascinating history of swords, spears and lances through to the 21st century. From their Palaeolithic origins and the appearance of the first swords in Bronze Age Europe and Mesopotamia, it describes how the weapons carved out some of the greatest civilizations in the world. With special sections on the sword in Japanese, Chinese, African and Indian cultures as well as an examination of the American sword and Naval swords, this book presents a broad-ranging work on swords throughout world history, and forms an indispensable resource for the keen collector and enthusiast.

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Book SynopsisFrom the 12th to 15th centuries the longbow was the weapon that changed European history more than any other. In the skilled hands of English and Welsh archers it revolutionized all the medieval concepts and traditions of war. No other weapon dominated the battlefield as it did, and it was the winning factor in every major battle from Morlaix in 1342 to Patay in 1429. Donald Featherstone's study of the English longbow from its early development until the Wars of the Roses is an inspiring and authentic reconstruction in human terms in an age of courage, vitality and endurance. He provides an enthralling footnote to the history of the longbow by recording the engagement in which it was last used - in France in 1940

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Book SynopsisWarrior Geeks examines how technology is transforming the way we think about and fight war, taking three major changes that are driving this process: cybernetic technologies that are folding soldiers into a cybernetic system that will allow the military to read their thoughts and emotions and mould them accordingly; the coexistence of men and robots in the battle-spaces of tomorrow; and the extent to which we may be able to re-engineer warriors through pharmacological manipulation. By referring back to the Greeks who defined the contours of war for us, Coker shows how we are in danger of losing touch with our humanity - the name we give not only to a species but the virtues we deem it to embody. The journey from Greeks to Geeks may be a painful one. War can only be rendered more humane if we stay in touch with the ancestors, yet unfortunately we are planning to subcontract our ethical choices to machines. In revaluing technology, are we devaluing our humanity, or the post-human condition, changing our subjectivity and thus the existential dimension of war by changing our relationship with technology both functionally and performatively?Trade Review'A fascinating historical and philosophical tour of modern warfare. - The chief concern outlined by Coker is that the ingenuity driving military science is spiralling out of control. The 'geeks' are creating technologies - designer drugs, robotics and neural devices - that, ultimately, he feels, will dehumanize us.' * Nature *'This book offers a good exercise for readers who wish to be challenged on their thinking about the nature of warfare - yesterday, today and tomorrow.' * ARMY *'This is a brilliant book about a rather nightmarish topic, i.e., how technology now enables us to become post-humans ... It is not only a very important book but also a deeply disconcerting one.' * The US Army War College Quarterly *'To describe a Coker book as an intellectual tour de force is perhaps the most anodyne observation a reviewer can make; of course it would be, and of course this one is, too. This latest offering is a rich synthesis of ideas and intellectual trajectories drawn from the annals of literature, philosophy, history, and science, and transmitted in a language that speaks as much to pop culture sensibilities as it does to the more esoteric and often impenetrable nooks and crannies of academe.' * Michael Innes, Current Intelligence *'The Age of Martial Robotics is upon us and no one has captured the impending revolution in warfare with its accompanying moral dilemmas more incisively or eloquently than Christopher Coker. Warrior Geeks, his latest work on the subject of posthuman warfare, brilliantly exposes the divide between traditional Western military ethos and the inevitable rise of machine-based combat. An exceptional book.' * Everett Dolman, Professor of Military Strategy, USAF School of Advanced Air and Space Studies *'There are few writers who can do what Christopher Coker has accomplished in Warrior Geeks, which takes the reader on a journey that connects everything from Socrates to Oliver Stone movies to the latest in warfare and digital technologies. His work is always substantive, and sometimes even lyrical.' * Peter Singer, Senior Fellow and Director, 21st Century Defense Initiative, The Brookings Institution, and author of Wired for War: The Robotics Revolution and Conflict in the 21st Century *

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Book SynopsisThis book examines Western military technological innovation through the lens of developments in small arms during the twentieth century. These weapons have existed for centuries, appear to have matured only incrementally and might seem unlikely technologies for investigating the trajectory of military-technical change. Their relative simplicity, however, makes it easy to use them to map patterns of innovation within the military- industrial complex. Advanced technologies may have captured the military imagination, offering the possibility of clean and decisive outcomes, but it is the low technologies of the infantryman that can help us develop an appreciation for the dynamics of military-technical change. Tracing the path of innovation from battlefield to back office, and from industry to alliance partner, Ford develops insights into the way that small arms are socially constructed. He thereby exposes the mechanics of power across the military- industrial complex. This in turn reveals that shifting power relations between soldiers and scientists, bureaucrats and engineers, have allowed the private sector to exploit infantry status anxiety and shape soldier weapon preferences. Ford's analysis allows us to draw wider conclusions about how military innovation works and what social factorsTrade Review'Ford demonstrates an impressive ability to bring together the engineering of small arms with the meanings attached to guns and with the competitive marketing efforts of the makers to explain how and why countries develop particular weapons. This melding of disciplines not only provides keen insights into the evolution of small arms but makes a major contribution to our understanding of the dynamics of military innovation. Altogether, it makes for a fascinating book.' * Stephen Saideman, Paterson Chair in International Affairs, Norman Paterson School of International Affairs, Carleton University *'Matthew Ford makes the case for placing small arms at the centre of how we think about contemporary security challenges. He rightly argues that "Guns aren't just weapons; they are also status symbols." By looking at small arms development in this way, Ford opens up a much broader analysis of power relations within the military and with its industrial partners. He sheds new light on NATO's emerging defence industrial policy, the relationship between battlefield tactics and bureaucratic politics, and the impact of commercial factors on civil-military relations. Weapon of Choice is an essential addition to the literature on technology and war.' * Huw Bennett, Reader in International Relations, Cardiff University *'A deep yet accessible critical analysis of the byzantine world of military procurement and the real driving forces behind it. Readers will no doubt be surprised to discover, despite the billions spent on solicitation, trial, evaluation and issue, just how much politics, individual preference, and even prevailing fashions influence the weapons that actually end up in the hands of soldiers.' * Jonathan Ferguson, Curator of Firearms, Royal Armouries Museum *'A wide-ranging, ground-breaking book that brilliantly fuses discussion of small arms technology with the history of culture and ideas.' * Daniel Todman, Senior Lecturer, Department of History, Queen Mary University of London *'Getting away from primitive monocausal explanations and simplistic models, Matthew Ford draws on multiple theoretical explanations to explain the complex and interactive process of military innovation and defence procurement which shifts over time and space. Compellingly written and persuasively argued, this book will be a central point of reference.' * Beatrice Heuser, Chair of International Relations, University of Reading *'In Weapon of Choice, Matthew Ford deftly shows us the multiplicity of perspectives, choices and influences that have shaped the historical development of small arms. His work makes an important contribution to the exciting, and growing, intersection of critical security studies and science and technology studies.' * Brian Balmer, Professor in Science Policy Studies, University College London *'A lucidly written story of how powerful organisational and industrial interests, shaping and sometimes twisting analysis for their own purposes, prevailed in fielding military rifles ill-suited to the needs of modern combat. Ford's cautionary tale should make us sceptical of the strident claims of effectiveness attached to weapons much more complex and expensive than small-arms.' * Thomas L. McNaugher, Senior Visiting Professor, Georgetown University, and author of New Weapons Old Politics *Matthew Ford is a lecturer in Inter--national Relations at the University of Sussex. He has a PhD in War Studies from King's College London and is an Honorary Historical Consultant to the Royal Armouries, a former West Point fellow and a founding editor of the British Journal for Military History.

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Book SynopsisThe Thompson submachine gun, or Tommy gun developed an almost iconic status during the 20th century. It had an unusual beginning, for it was developed during the dying days of World War I as a 'one-man, hand-held machine gun'. The war ended before these first prototypes could be shipped to Europe but once the M1921 Thompson formally entered production it was used by the criminals working in Chicago and New York during the 1920s. With the police increasingly outgunned they too were forced to equip themselves with the Tommy gun. It quickly came to be used in Hollywood films, and by the end of the 1930s it would have probably faded from view had history not intervened. With the entry of the US into World War II there was an urgent need to equip and arm a force of epic proportions; the Thompson submachine gun began a second career as part of the US Army. It also became the weapon of choice for the small band of British commandos as they conducted a number of daring raids against the heart of occupied Europe.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Development /Use /Impact /Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThe Samurai sword of Japan is probably the finest edged weapon ever made. This volume by leading Samurai expert Stephen Turnbull reveals the story of how and why it achieved this distinction. Particular attention is paid to the development of the familiar curved blade from the original straight blades, the associated development of Japan's famous steel-making techniques and the challenges from contemporary warfare. Together with the technical details of forging, polishing, mounting and testing; this volume is brought to life with details of the great swordmakers themselves. Moreover, no history of the sword would be complete without a detailed examination of its use in combat, from the greatest Samurai armies to individual duels and revenge killings. Personal accounts allow the reader to discover the art of Japanese swordsmanship in the hands of masters such as Miyamoto Musashi to the unnamed Japanese warrior defending his family's honour. This lively text is perfectly complemented by artwork reconstructions of the sword in use and colour photographs of the swords in use.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Development /Use /Impact /Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThe Lee-Enfield is one of the 20th century's most recognisable and longest-serving military rifles. It was adopted by the British Army in 1895 and only replaced by the L1A1 SLR in 1957. It saw combat from the Boer War onwards, and thousands are still in use today; it is estimated that 17 million have been produced. Soldier's recollections of the rifle are overwhelmingly affectionate (it was known as the Smellie); today it remains a very popular target rifle for competitive shooting, and modern copies are being manufactured to meet demand. Featuring first-hand accounts, brand-new full-colour artwork and close-up photographs, this is the story of the Lee-Enfield, the innovative, reliable and long-lived rifle that equipped British and other forces through the world wars and beyond.Trade ReviewThere is much to praise about this book and very little to find fault with. I highly recommend it and give it an “excellent” 5 out of 5. * Army Rumour Service *Table of ContentsIntroduction /Development /Use /Impact /Select Bibliography /Index

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Book SynopsisIn the years between 31 BC and AD 500 the Romans carved out a mighty empire stretching from Britain to the deserts of North Africa. The men who spearheaded this expansion were the centurions, the tough, professional warriors who led from the front, exerted savage discipline and provided a role model for the legionaries under their command. This book, the second volume of a two-part study, reveals the appearance, weaponry, role and impact of these legendary soldiers during the five centuries that saw the Roman Empire reach its greatest geographical extent under Trajan and Hadrian, only to experience a long decline in the West in the face of sustained pressure from its 'barbarian' neighbours. Featuring spectacular full-colour artwork, written by an authority on the army of the Caesars and informed by a wide range of sculptural, written and pictorial evidence from right across the Roman world, this book overturns established wisdom and sheds new light on Rome's most famous soldiers during the best-known era in its history.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Organization: centurions under the early Principate, in the army of the Julio-Claudian Caesars – the Flavian and Trajanic army – in the Marcomannic Wars – the 2nd and 3rd centuries – the period of military anarchy – the 4th century – the Eastern and Western Empires /Weapons, armour and clothing: offensive weapons, helmets, shields, body armour, rank symbols and insignia, and clothing /Service and discipline /Social status /Bibliography

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Book SynopsisWhen Norwegian Vikings first raided the European coast in the 8th century AD, their leaders were from the middle ranks of warriors known as hersirs. At this time the hersir was typically an independent landowner or local chieftain with equipment superior to that of his followers. By the end of the 10th century, the independence of the hersir was gone, and he was now a regional servant of the Norwegian king. This book investigates these brutal, mobile warriors, and examines their tactics and psychology in war, dispelling the idea of the Viking raider as simply a killing machine.Table of ContentsHistorical Background · Chronology · Training · Tactics · Logistics · The Viking in Battle · Motivation and Psychology · Appearance and Equipment · Weapons · Manufacture of Weapons · Museums · Collecting · Glossary

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Book SynopsisProbably the most famous tank of the World War II, the Tiger I was originally conceived in 1941 in response to the German Army's experience in fighting British tanks and anti-tank guns in Western Europe and the North African desert. Following the invasion of Russia, the appearance of the Soviet T-34 and KW tanks lent a further impetus to the programme. The Tiger's power and performance on the battlefield is emphasised by tables of relevant performance throughout the book, which clearly show the battlefield survivability of the Tiger and its superiority to many allied tank designs. This comprehensive and extremely detailed text is accompanied by a fine selection of black and white photographs showing the tank in use.Table of ContentsIntroduction · Design and Development · Production History · Production Modifications · Firepower · Mobility · Battlefield Survivability · Operational History ·

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Book SynopsisThe T-34-85 tank is one of those rare weapons that have remained in service for more than half a century. First introduced in 1944, it has seen combat in nearly every corner of the globe. Steven Zaloga and Jim Kinnear look at this long-serving tank at length. Although long obsolete in Europe, it has proven a reliable and potent weapon in many Third World conflicts, and is still in service with more than a dozen armies around the world.Table of ContentsDesign and Development · Operational History · Variants · Late-War Production Improvements · Inside the T-34-85 · Post-War Modifications · Technical Support Variants · T-34-85 in Post-War Combat

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Book SynopsisAustrian troops played a part in almost every major campaign of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars. Austria was probably Napolean's most implacable enemy and, after France, fielded the most formidable army of the period. The troops were recruited from territories as diverse as modern Belgium, the Czech Republic, central Romania and northern Italy, along with volunteers from southern Germany and a few Irishmen. This volume looks at the life and experience of both the ordinary infantry and the veteran elite of the Grenadier battalions, covering everything from their basic training to the horrors of the battlefield.Table of ContentsChronology 1788-1816 · The Raw Material · In Garrison · Training · Flags · Leadership · Reward and Punishment · On Campaign · Tactics · Outposts and Patrols · Into Battle · Casualties and POWs · Aftermath · Bibliography

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Book SynopsisThe huge, multi-national Austro-Hungarian army was a major factor in mid-19th century European politics. Sharing borders with ramshackle Ottoman Turkey and volatile Italy, the Empire was threatened both internally – by growing nationalist esentments – and externally by the ambitions of France and Prussia. The Imperial and Royal Army was representative of the Empire, its composition and gorgeously complex uniforms echoing the historical traditions of both German-speaking Middle Europe and the East-facing Hungarian borderlands. This detailed analysis of its cavalry arm – Kurassiers, Dragoons, Chevauxlegers, Hussars and Uhlans – follows the author/artist's similar treatment of the Austro-Hungarian infantry in Men-at-Arms 323, and includes detailed tables of regimental distinctions.Table of ContentsCavalry; uniform and equipment; irregular cavalry.

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Book SynopsisIn the mid-19th century, Austria comprised a heterogeneous, multi-ethnic empire consisting of the Austrian or 'German' area; the Hungarian area; the Military Border; and the Kingdom of Lombardy-Venetia. The diverse nature of the empire made it difficult to create a unified and up-to-date military system, especially with remnants of feudalism still strong in some provinces. This book examines the Line infantry, Grenz infantry (Border troops) and Jägers (riflemen) that formed the Austrian infantry. Numerous illustrations and photographs of uniforms, rank insignia and regiments complement the text, as well as eight full colour plates.Table of ContentsLine infantry; uniform and equipment; after 1850; regimental bands; colours; minor infantry troops; Grenz infantry; Jagers.

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Book SynopsisArming the US military is an ongoing process, one of vital importance. This book will help America''s leaders, educators and general public better understand how to manage the business of rearmament. Drawing on historical anecdotes, common business principles and the author''s 31 years of military service, the book provides an engaging and educational look at the complexities of arming the American military.

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisTreasures of the Royal Armouries is a photographic journey through Britain’s national museum of arms and armour. It reflects the diversity of the Royal Armouries’ collection, which was assembled over many centuries at the Tower of London and now spans the ancient world to the present day. At the core of this journey is the museum’s unparalleled group of Tudor armours which derive from the Greenwich Armoury of Henry VIII, but European swords, paintings and manuscripts are equally well-represented. Stunning pieces from Asia are included, as are key items from the national collection of firearms, started in 1631 by Charles I and now housed at the National Firearms Centre, as well as larger guns from the National Artillery Centre at Fort Nelson. Each of the 115 entries tell compelling stories, tracing the histories of individuals, campaigns and cultures across millennia. They also consider the place of arms in an increasingly turbulent world and the new challenges that technology presents to a modern army. Treasures of the Royal Armouries is a lavishly illustrated account of some of the most interesting pieces of arms and armour in existence.

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Book SynopsisAirpower is credited with success in Afghanistan, Desert Storm, and Serbia, but in Vietnam all of America's aerial might could not defeat a vastly outnumbered Third World force on bicycles. With a panoramic sweep and shocking frankness unrivaled in the current literature, Ken Werrell, one of today's most experienced airpower historians, reveals the true extent of the technological evolution that fueled this transformation. Chasing the Silver Bullet traces in unprecedented detail the evolution of the Air Force's entire inventory since the Korean War, from the ill-fated F-105 fighter-bomber to the F-117 stealth fighter, but one of its chief contributions is its analysis of the strategies and doctrine that fashioned the hardware.Werrell's exhaustive research and sage analysis challenge the Air Force's mantra that precision-guided munitions delivered from long-range, stealthy aircraft are America's true war heroes. Desert Storm gave us the wrong impression about airpower technology and Werrell corrects that mistake with this landmark study, rendering superficial all other books about Desert Storm and current capabilities.Objective, even-handed, and unimpressed with the bells and whistles of new technology, Werrell understands how airpower works.

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