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I only meant that logistically ammunition production and distribution could have been simplified by eliminating a unique round in the .30 carbine. The cartridge pressure is not that great, so all the M1 carbine would need is a larger barrel which would add minimal weight. I already addresed the effective range of the .30 carbine. The weapon was intended as a last-ditch defensive weapon for non-combitants that was something more than a sidearm. The longer barrel and sight radius of a .45 carbine would have made it suitable to the role intended for the M1 Carbine in .30 carbine, and would reduce the logistical problems. No need to make a unique cartridge. One less chance that your supply depot will have a bunch of .45 for Thompsons but no .30 carbine for the M1.

I think it was a win-win. I don’t see why they went with a unique, low powered cartridge that was no more effective than a pistol round. Why not chamber in something already produced in quanity and simplify your supply problems.

Again, I’m just not seeing a downside if the .30 carbine didn’t exist and if M1 carbines came in .45 ACP. If this weapon was intended for offense, then yes, and even then the aenemic choice of round is not suitable. For a close contact last-ditch defensive weapon for truck drivers and cooks, I just don’t see why .30 carbine is any more effectiev in that role than .45 ACP would be.

I agree with virtually all you say, particularly with regards to ammo uniformity and common caliber...with just a few exceptions.

First, it goes to weight. The Thompson weighs right about twice what carbine weighs...it's not just a matter of barrel weight, but a substantially heftier bolt merely to accomodate a much fatter round. Even the stamped metal grease gun weighed on the order of 2 pounds more than a carbine...add to that the amount of .30 ammo that could be carried on a pound for pound basis compared to .45.

Second, even with a longer, carbine length barrel, the carbine has a much flatter trajectory making it far easier for a novice shooter to hit targets out to 200m.

Certainly, having another caliber in the arsenal made for some logistical considerations and compromises, but it seems to me we still did ok in WWII, and that does make the .30 carbine somewhat of a historical enigma, as the greatest mass produced, *non-standard, standard-issue* weapon ever. I really doubt we'll ever see such again.