The Sidearm of Fury: Unpacking the Pistol in the Iconic WWII Film

The pistol prominently featured in the movie Fury is the Smith & Wesson M1917 revolver. This iconic sidearm, while not the sole handgun used in the film, holds a significant place due to its frequent appearance and historical context. It’s crucial to understand its role not just in the film, but also in the broader history of World War I and World War II, as it reflects the military equipment of the era. In Fury, the Smith & Wesson M1917 is notably used by Brad Pitt’s character, Wardaddy, and its presence underscores the authenticity of the film’s portrayal of military life during that period.

A Closer Look at the Smith & Wesson M1917

The Smith & Wesson M1917 is a six-shot, large-frame, double-action revolver chambered for the .45 ACP cartridge. Developed during World War I to supplement the US military’s existing stock of Colt M1911 pistols, the M1917 was a crucial addition to the arsenal. The pistol’s design was a response to the urgent need for sidearms, as the United States faced a shortage of domestically produced .45 caliber handguns. The revolver was produced by both Smith & Wesson and Colt, with both variations seeing action in both World War I and World War II.

Why the M1917 in Fury?

The film Fury is set in the later stages of World War II, a period where the M1917, although not the primary issue sidearm, was still in circulation. Its appearance in Fury isn’t just a prop choice; it’s a reflection of the diverse weaponry used by US forces during that time. Furthermore, while the Colt M1911A1 was more widely used by officers and non-commissioned officers, the M1917 could still be found amongst the ranks, sometimes as personal weapons or in limited quantities. The choice to have Wardaddy, a seasoned sergeant, carry this particular model could be viewed as a symbolic representation of his experience and adaptability in battle.

FAQs About Pistols and Weapons in Fury

Here are some frequently asked questions about the pistols and other weapons featured in the movie Fury, providing more detail on the firearms and their historical relevance:

What other handguns were used in Fury?

Aside from the Smith & Wesson M1917, several other handguns were used in Fury, reflecting the variety of firearms employed by both Allied and Axis forces during World War II. These include the Colt M1911A1, the standard-issue US sidearm, as well as the German Walther P38 and Luger P08. Each pistol carried its own historical significance, and its presence helped build a more authentic atmosphere within the film.

Why do the bullets in Fury look like lasers?

The “laser beam” effect of the bullets in Fury is actually the result of tracer ammunition. These rounds are designed with a small pyrotechnic charge in their base, creating a visible trail of light that helps soldiers track their shots. While dramatic in appearance, their purpose was practical – to allow soldiers to adjust fire in real-time, especially when using machine guns or tank cannons. The film’s use of tracers is exaggerated, however, as they would not have been as prominent as depicted.

What is the Grease Gun that Norman uses in Fury?

The submachine gun used by Norman Ellison and other soldiers in Fury is the M3A1 Grease Gun. This weapon was designed for mass production and ease of use, making it a common sight on the battlefields of World War II. It provided close-range firepower and was a staple for infantry units.

Was the use of the M1917 historically accurate for the WWII era?

While the Colt M1911A1 was the standard-issue sidearm for US officers and NCOs by World War II, the M1917 was still in use, although in smaller numbers. It was often issued to support troops, and soldiers who favored it could sometimes acquire it as a personal sidearm. Thus, Wardaddy wielding the M1917 is plausible, but not typical of common use.

Is the M1917 used by Brad Pitt in Fury a genuine military-issue pistol?

The movie used genuine, military-issue Smith & Wesson M1917 revolvers. This attention to detail enhanced the realism of the film, providing an authentic portrayal of WWII weaponry. These revolvers were often identifiable with military property markings stamped on the receiver.

What is the significance of Wardaddy choosing the M1917?

The decision to arm Wardaddy with the Smith & Wesson M1917 may have symbolic weight. As a seasoned sergeant, Wardaddy has likely seen more than his share of combat. Choosing a revolver that, while older, is reliable could be a statement about his reliance on proven weaponry. It may also underscore a sense of experience and a preference for the robustness of a revolver over a newer semi-automatic.

Were pistols as prominent in tank warfare as depicted in Fury?

While pistols were standard-issue sidearms for tankers, they weren’t typically used in the manner portrayed in Fury’s more action-packed scenes. Their primary function was for self-defense outside the tank and as last-resort options during close combat or tank evacuations. Machine guns and cannons were the primary weapons of tanks in combat.

What were the primary advantages of the M1917?

The Smith & Wesson M1917 offered simplicity and reliability. Its double-action mechanism allowed for quick firing, and its sturdy construction made it durable in the field. It was also chambered for the powerful .45 ACP round, providing considerable stopping power, which could be crucial in combat situations.

What were the disadvantages of the M1917 compared to the M1911A1?

The M1917 was heavier than the M1911A1 and had a lower magazine capacity of six rounds compared to the M1911’s seven. The M1911’s semi-automatic action allowed for faster reloading, making it generally more practical in close-quarters combat, though the power of the round itself was identical.

Did tank crewmen carry sidearms at all times in WWII?

Yes, tank crewmen were typically issued sidearms. These would usually be revolvers, such as the M1917, or pistols such as the M1911, as they were considered standard-issue equipment and useful for personal defense.

Are any other historical firearms used in Fury?

Yes, apart from handguns, Fury featured a range of historically accurate firearms. This included the M3A1 Grease Gun, the M1919 Browning machine gun mounted on the tanks, M2 Browning .50 Caliber machine gun as an anti-aircraft weapon, and various German weapons, such as the MP40 submachine gun, and the StG44 assault rifle.

Why was the M1917 chambered in .45 ACP, a cartridge primarily used in semi-automatic pistols?

The Smith & Wesson M1917 was chambered in .45 ACP because the U.S. military had a large supply of these rounds and the existing supply of M1911 pistols couldn’t keep pace with the demand. The M1917 revolver was designed to use existing ammunition and provide an alternative to the standard-issue M1911, addressing an urgent need during WWI.

Did the German Army use the Walther P38 and Luger P08 equally?

While both the Walther P38 and Luger P08 were used by German forces in WWII, the P38 eventually became the standard-issue sidearm. The Luger, while iconic, was more complex to produce and maintain, leading to the P38 taking over as the primary service pistol.

How historically accurate is the overall depiction of weaponry in Fury?

Overall, Fury is highly accurate in its depiction of WWII weaponry, including both American and German firearms. The film’s attention to detail in the weaponry, especially with authentic models and the correct rounds, adds to the movie’s historical accuracy and realism.

What type of bullets does the M1917 use in the movie?

The Smith & Wesson M1917 in the movie would be using the .45 ACP cartridge, consistent with the revolver’s design, as well as using tracer rounds for some shots. This cartridge was specifically designed for use in the era’s semi-automatic pistols.