SwampTiger
Banned
Okay, let me assume the British Army decides it needs a 200-300 yard light rifle for the Invasion of Europe after Sicily, July 1943. It chooses the M1 Carbine and M2 Automatic Carbine. The US Army is hoovering up the production of carbines at this time. The British will need to merge production of the M1/2 Carbine in place of SLEM and Sten production. Much of Sten production is in shops without the ability to make M1/2 carbines. Some delay will occur while moving Carbine production into SLEM facilities, at least three months, probably more like six to reach near SLEM production. Add in production of carbines in Canada. Will the British have enough M1/2 carbines to fill out their TO&E by June 1944? I seriously doubt they could convert more than the initial 1st wave forces.
In combat use, the British Tommies begin to discover some of the faults in the carbine. It is adequate against enemy forces under normal use. When facing dug-in German units, the M1 is handicapped by its light bullet. It has poor penetration against light cover. Suppressive fire will need substantial help from the platoon MG's. Basic maintenance of the guns is handicapped by low stocks of replacement parts and short training times. The British will like the light weight of gun and ammo. They will appreciate the increase in rate of fire.
The impact in June 1942 will be minimal at best. Added confusion and casualties at worst.
I do like the M1 Carbine. It was handicapped by its weak cartridge and late arrival.
In combat use, the British Tommies begin to discover some of the faults in the carbine. It is adequate against enemy forces under normal use. When facing dug-in German units, the M1 is handicapped by its light bullet. It has poor penetration against light cover. Suppressive fire will need substantial help from the platoon MG's. Basic maintenance of the guns is handicapped by low stocks of replacement parts and short training times. The British will like the light weight of gun and ammo. They will appreciate the increase in rate of fire.
The impact in June 1942 will be minimal at best. Added confusion and casualties at worst.
I do like the M1 Carbine. It was handicapped by its weak cartridge and late arrival.