US Combat Shotguns Book Review
By David L. Veres
| Date of Review | January 2014 | Title | US Combat Shotguns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Leroy Thompson | Publisher | Osprey Publishing |
| Published | 2013 | ISBN | 9781780960142 |
| Format | 80 pages, softbound | MSRP (USD) | $18.95 |
Review
A wiry, wizened USAF security sergeant once claimed that, for perimeter and close-quarters base defense, "nothing beats a shotgun".
That's one lesson from Leroy Thompson's informative little US Combat Shotguns – 29th installment in Osprey's growing "Weapon" series.
Thompson tackles his topic with usual verve. And he beautifully distills the history of American military shotguns into just 80 pages.
After informative introductory and "development" notes, contents cover combat use and impact. That's where you'll learn, for instance, that the US reportedly sought seasoned trap-shooters to deflect grenades and mortar shells. Really!
Photos, drawings and action paintings superbly season the study. A "conclusion", selected bibliography and index wrap things up. And – hey – it's annotated!
From the World Wars through Korea and Vietnam to Afghanistan and beyond, Thompson tells the whole terrific tale. Make this handy handbook your introduction to these fascinating, frightening weapons.
Recommended!
My sincere thanks to Osprey Publishing for this review sample!