Chinese copy of US M3A1 Grease Gun

In the era following World War II, military tactics and weaponry underwent significant evolution, leading to innovations and even reproductions of global arms. China has a long-standing reputation for imitating foreign intellectual properties, a trend that began shortly after WWII. The nation derived its own versions of the M3 submachine gun, notably the Type 36 and Type 37.

World War II initiated a turbulent period for China, as Japanese forces capitalized on the internal strife between Nationalists and Communists. This conflict was temporarily overshadowed by the Japanese invasion, during which the United States provided substantial support to China, formally established post-December 7, 1941. A Lend-Lease program was initiated, delivering several armaments, including the M3 submachine gun, also known as the Grease gun.

Once the war concluded, China resumed its civil conflict, garnering Soviet support for the Communists and American backing for the Nationalists. Both factions operated with a patchwork of weaponry sourced from multiple nations, resulting in a push towards producing indigenous firearms.

The M3 submachine gun presented a manageable production challenge for the Chinese. Although it was more complex than the Sten, it offered greater reliability and did not demand the sophisticated machining processes required for the Thompson. Nevertheless, the Nationalist forces also managed to produce Thompsons, underscoring their diverse arsenal that included the subsequent development of Type 36 and Type 37 submachine guns.

Type 36 and 37 Features: Economical and Functional

The Chinese substantially replicated the M3A1 Grease Gun in various factories and makeshift workshops. The resultant firearms often exhibited lower quality than their original counterparts, with virtually nonexistent parts compatibility. Certain features were simplified; for instance, the removal of wrench flats on the barrel that facilitated easy detachment and eliminating the oil compartment in the pistol grip.

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The distinguishing factors between the Type 36 and Type 37 primarily revolved around their caliber. The Type 36 operated on the standard .45 ACP, a round favored in America yet less prevalent globally. While the Nationalists had access to American .45 ACP, they were likely inundated with 9mm ammunition post-WWII, leading to the emergence of the Type 37.

It is important to note that the original M3 design was inherently adaptable for conversion to 9mm if required. The engineering differences between producing a .45 ACP variant versus a 9mm version likely proved minimal. Sources indicate that only about 10,000 .45 ACP variants of the Type 36 were produced, while the Type 37 remained in production until the Communist victory coerced Nationalists to retreat to Taiwan.

Regrettably, tangible evidence of the Type 36 and Type 37, particularly photographs, is scarce. Although the Marine Corps Museum houses some examples, images showcasing soldiers armed with these models are elusive. In contrast, numerous photographs exist of soldiers equipped with Thompsons, yet none prominently displaying the Type 36 or Type 37.

A Shift in Firearms

Since the conclusion of WWII, the United States has supplied Taiwan with a substantial amount of weaponry, and Taiwan has independently advanced its arms production capabilities. Consequently, the reliance on rudimentary M3A1 clones has diminished. Moreover, advancements in firearm technology have seen Taiwan transition from submachine guns towards assault rifles. Nonetheless, the Type 36 and 37 hold a unique spot in the history of firearms, directly connected to American military heritage.

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