Midway USA's Gun Stories Season 2 Episode 4 The Guns of John Dillinger

The fourth episode of Midway USA's Gun Stories season 2 explores the guns used by notorious bank robber John Dillinger. Dillinger was known for his daring bank heists and his ability to evade the law for extended periods. However, his story wouldn't be complete without taking a closer look at the firearms that he used for his criminal activities.

The episode starts by detailing John Dillinger's early life and how he became one of the most infamous bank robbers in American history. It then transitions towards his modus operandi and how his gang made meticulous plans to rob banks. The documentary also elaborates on his daring jailbreak, which many considered to be impossible.

The Guns of John Dillinger explores how Dillinger and his gang acquired their firearms. It delves into the black market of guns during the Great Depression era and how gangsters got their hands on weapons that were otherwise banned. The focus of the episode is then shifted towards the various firearms that were used by Dillinger and his gang.

The first segment of the show details the Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless, which is said to have been Dillinger's first gun. The pocket-sized pistol was highly popular at the time and was in production from 1903 to 1945. The documentary explores the advantages of the pistol and why it was a popular choice among gangsters of the 1930s.

The Colt 1911 also features prominently in the episode. The .45 ACP firearm was widely used by members of Dillinger's gang and was a popular choice among law enforcement officers at the time. The documentary takes a deep dive into the details of the pistol and explains how it helped shape modern firearms.

The Winchester 1897 shotgun, which Dillinger used during a bank robbery in Indiana, is also featured. The shotgun was popular among gangsters, and its high accuracy made it a preferred choice during robberies.

The show also explores the various modifications that the gang made to their firearms to make them more effective during robberies. The modifications included sawing off the barrels of shotguns to make them more concealed and easier to maneuver during heists. The documentary also highlights the role of the Thompson submachine gun in Dillinger's robberies and how its rapid-fire capability made it a popular choice among gangsters.

The latter part of the episode delves into the events that led to Dillinger's capture and eventual death. The FBI's efforts to bring down the notorious bank robber are discussed, along with the various firearms that were used during the final showdown.

Overall, The Guns of John Dillinger provides an in-depth look at the firearms used by one of America's most notorious criminals. The documentary's excellent visuals and informative narration make it a fascinating watch for gun enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The show not only explores firearms but also sheds light on the social and economic implications of the Great Depression and how it shaped law enforcement and criminal activity in the United States.