Eli5: How effective were flamethrowers when they were still in use in the military and what were the dangers of operating one?
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I’ve used an M2 Flamethrower the past. They’re still sometimes used to clear out bee and wasp nests. A few things I learned.
They have a kick. A big one. Honestly about as bad as hip-firing a 50cal rifle, only its not instantaneous, but about 2 or three seconds long. While you have a burning hose in your hand.
They run out of ammo fast. Well, not exactly “ammo” but the M2 has this wierd “mini flare” wheel ignition system that is absolutely irritating to refill. And can only be used…I forget if it was 6 or 8 times. Basically, front trigger ignites a mini flare that burns about 10 secs (but is crazy Inconsistent) the rear trigger let’s out the fuel.
It’s crazy scary on both sides. Even with a weaker propellant used, you feel the heat from that flame, and can feel the air being sucked away. Do NOT use an M2 if you have claustrophobia.
They are surprisingly utilitarian. I can’t imagine the flame of a flamethrower killing a tank but you can squirt out some unlit propellant and blind those viewholes and cameras at 100 feet. You know that if any propellant got through a view hole the crew would be absolutely s******* themselves. Anyone in half a mile who looks directly at a flamethrower fireball in night vision goggles WILL be permanently blinded.
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