Tom Laemlein

Thanks to everyone who has purchased my books, from whatever source you find them. I started to collect interesting photos of American small arms about 10 years ago and it quickly grew beyond a hobby. Several friends encouraged me to publish the photos and after a short time of experimenting with a format, we came up with the American Firepower series. It seemed like the most fitting way I have to honor my father and my uncles who served in combat in World War Two, plus my Grandfather and his brother who fought in World War One, and ultimately, all of our veterans from all eras.

There have been many wonderful technical histories of American small arms produced over the years, written by such great researchers as Jim Ballou, Larry Ruth, Bruce Canfield, Scott Duff, Frank Iannamico, Dolf Goldsmith and many others. Most of these men have become my friends since I began publishing my photo studies of American arms. I found that my books filled a niche for researchers, collectors and historians, providing the visual information that shows unique modifications, battlefield use and other important details that help fill in the cracks in the history of any particular weapon. Most of the technical researchers and gun writers don't have the time to do extensive photo research. That's why my books have been seen as complimentary to the works of the men I mentioned earlier.

I have noticed that the few negative reviews my books have received come from folks that didn't seem to understand that my books are not technical and are rather "in action" photo journals of the weapons. I think this happened early on as these books created a new category within the greater niche of "gun books". The photos I publish are rarely seen images (many often never before published)and with each new volume I get peppered with questions like: "Where did you find these photos?" It would take me far too long to explain, and you would likely be bored to tears. Suffice it to say that I spend a lot of time in archives, museums and libraries, as well as sorting through private collections and buying images when they present themselves.

I am often amazed a what tremendous discussion (and often outright arguments) that the photos I publish can stir up. Many long-held perceptions or even misconceptions have been challenged or undone by a mere photograph. I never would have suspected such great interest in small arms photos. It is certainly there and I do my best to provide a complete visual record of the weapons that I cover in my books.

The balance of my American Firepower series, along with several other titles, is being produced under the banner of my own publishing company: Armor Plate Press. It is my hope to have my full catalog available here at Amazon by the middle of 2011. For the time being, you can always find my books on my website at www.armorplatepress.com Certain gun book and military book dealers carry them as well.

I want to say that I am extremely grateful to be able to do this. I have met so many wonderful people who are so very kind to me and share their experiences and their remembrances of loved ones who have served our country. My books have been sold around the world and this has brought me many new friends, here in the USA and many places around the globe. Thanks so much to all our readers and customers. The pipeline is full and we will have more new books available in early 2011.

Best regards, Tom Laemlein Armor Plate Press