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Shooting Illustrated Features Story of Browning M1917 MG on Guadalcanal

Shooting Illustrated's April issue-available on newsstands today-includes Wiley Clapp's take on the Browning M1917 machine gun and its use by brave Americans in the defense of Alligator Creek on Guadalcanal. If that name sounds familiar, it's probably because you were among the millions who saw a dramatic reenactment of those events in last weekend's premiere episode of HBO's critically acclaimed miniseries, "The Pacific." Unlike made-for-TV drama, Clapp's gritty explanation of the gun's operation and its decisive role in that battle, hinted at in "The Pacific," includes the creek's defense by U.S. Marine John Rivers, whose "...dying act was to clamp down hard on the gun's trigger. Most of a full ammo belt-some 200 rounds-cycled through without a hitch," according to Clapp.

"Wiley Clapp gives the real story behind a monumental battle of World War II, and as usual, his timing is fortuitous," said Editor-in-Chief Guy J. Sagi. "Clapp's monthly 'Fightin' Iron' column is the destination for anyone interested in the real history of firearms and their use to defend our nation; from ordinary citizens to our brave Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines."

Look for the April issue of Shooting Illustrated, The Definitive Source for the Modern Shooter, at a newsstand or 7-11 near you. You can also subscribe by calling (877) 232-3840.

For more information, you can visit ShootingIllustrated.com, call Editor-in-Chief Guy J. Sagi at (703) 267-1375 or e-mail gsagi@nrahq.org.