Lake Martin Machine Gun — Eclectic, Alabama
The Tommy Gun. The Trench Broom. The weapon of WWII soldiers, Prohibition gangsters, and American legend. At Lake Martin Machine Gun, you can fire it. Full-auto. On 90 private acres in Alabama.
Book Your Experience: (888) 660-6462Developed by General John T. Thompson and first produced in 1919, the Thompson submachine gun became one of the most iconic weapons of World War II. American paratroopers, Rangers, and infantrymen carried it from North Africa to Normandy to the Pacific. Soldiers loved its reliability, stopping power, and distinctive firing sound.
Before the war, the Thompson gained notoriety in the hands of Prohibition-era gangsters — the “Tommy Gun” of Al Capone and Bonnie & Clyde. That duality — outlaw weapon and war hero — makes it one of the most culturally significant firearms in American history. Today, a functional Thompson submachine gun is extraordinarily rare and valuable. You can fire one at Lake Martin Machine Gun.
Before you fire, your Lake Martin Machine Gun specialist will walk you through the Thompson’s history, show you how to load and handle it safely, and guide you through your first burst. Most guests describe the experience as equal parts exhilarating and emotional — especially those who had family members serve in WWII carrying this exact weapon.
One of our recent guests noted his father carried a Thompson as a tank commander in the war. That moment of connection is what we’re here for.
The Thompson is just one of 30+ firearms in our collection.