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Book Review: Hard Rain: History of the Browning Machine Guns by staff@1919a4.com I recently had the opportunity to read Frank Iannamico's new book, Hard Rain: History of the Browning Machine Guns. This 326 page book covers all aspects of the Browning, including both the 1919a4 and the M2 Ma Duece, so fans of both guns will not be disappointed. You may have read some old manuals, or perhaps a single chapter of a book that dicusses the 1919, or even an article in Small Arms Review, but understand, this book is the definitive guide on the 1919, simply a "must read" if you own a 1919a4 or are thinking about owning one in the future. Here are some topics that are covered in the book: .30 and .50 caliber Browning Machine Guns History Development Lend Lease Act Prime Contractors Sub-Contractors U.S. Government Contracts Production Figures Costs Experimental Guns Ground Guns Tank Guns Aircraft Guns Anti-Aircraft Guns Ground Tactics Aircraft Tactics Parts Accessories Ground Mounts Vehicle Mounts Aircraft Mounts Ammunition Links and Belts The Modern Shooter and Collector Tippmann Miniatures If you're one of those folks who like books with pictures and charts, then you'll be happy with Hard Rain, as it has over 350 photos, documents and charts. The book starts out with a look back at the initial history of the gun, including a look at earlier machine guns and their development going forward (did you know that in the forties, a new M2 50 BMG machine gun cost the government only $209?). The functioning of the gun is shown in detail, including breakdowns and illustrations of the gun showing the inner workings. The book moves into the World War II era, giving details about the introduction of the Browning machine gun, when it was introduced to our troops, and the initial runs from various manufacturers (great for tracking down the origin of NFA machine guns). A great amount of detail is brought up on the various contractors who produced parts for the guns, including actual letters and documents from the era. After these initial runs were produced, the firearm became more predominant in use, and various models were released for particular applications. Each of these is discussed in detail, and then the book moves on to the Browning we all know and love, the air-cooled 1919a1, a2, a3 and a4. The book details tactics used with the firearm, defense situations, mounting and the use of training aids such as the .22 trainer. The rest of the book goes into accessories and tools used with the 1919, including the belt loader, linker, tripod, mounts, ammo, etc. Oh, and lest we forget the 50 BMG M2 Browning, it's also covered in detail, with additional info on that fine weapon's accessories, tools, etc. In conclusion, if you'd like to know more about the line of Browning machine guns, don't hesitate to spend the $30 on this book--you won't be disappointed! Frank's done a fine service to the firearms community with the publication of this book, and it will have a place in my library for years and generations to come. Price: $29.95 Frank Iannamico PO Box 91 Greensburg, PA 15601 website: http://www.machinegunbooks.com/

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