Firing an M2-2 Portable Flame Thrower

Firing an M2-2 Portable Flame Thrower into a wall opening, Manila, 

In comparative tests the CWS and NDRC models showed approximately the same range, sixty yards with thickened fuel and one-third of this with ordinary fuel. The former model was slightly heavier and held less fuel than the latter. The Army preferred the rugged CWS model with pyrotechnic ignition to the light NDRC model with electrical ignition, and adopted it as the standard model, M2-2 in March 1944.  

American troops first employed the M2-2 in the Guam operation in July 1944. Manufacturers turned out more of this model than all earlier models combined—almost 25,000 as compared with 14,000—but production difficulties slowed down the issue of flame throwers to theaters of operation. March 1945 arrived before divisions in Italy received the weapon, 

Although the M2-2 was better than its predecessor, it was not entirely satisfactory. It was too heavy, it did not hold enough fuel, and the fuel tanks were uncomfortable on the backs of the operators when the weapon had to be carried a considerable distance. It was, however, the most reliable flame thrower designed by any army up to that time. The CWS technicians continued to develop a light, large capacity weapon, but they did not reach their goal during the war. 

Japanese troops on occasion used flame throwers. Americans first faced them on Bataan in early February 1942, and shortly thereafter American soldiers captured two. The CWS laboratory staff at Fort Mills tested one flame thrower, and sent the ignition system to Edgewood where it was examined for usable features. 

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