Auto-Ordnance Thompson Model of 1927A1 .45 ACP 16.5” Semi-Automatic Carbine
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
LSB#: LSB250729OS003
Make: Auto-Ordnance Corporation
Model: Model of 1927A1
Serial Number: 18623
Year of Manufacture: 1980s (West Hurley / Numrich era production)
Caliber: .45 ACP (Automatic Cartridge)
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, closed-bolt carbine with detachable box and drum magazines
Markings:
Left receiver roll reads “MODEL OF 1927A1 / NO. 18623” and “THOMPSON / SEMI-AUTOMATIC CARBINE / CALIBER .45 AUTOMATIC CARTRIDGE.” Right receiver is stamped “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION / WEST HURLEY, NEW YORK, U.S.A.” followed by a block of historic U.S. patent numbers (1,131,319 ? 1,408,276). The included drum is marked “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION / WEST HURLEY, NEW YORK, U.S.A.” with the Thompson trade mark logo. These identify the carbine as a later Numrich/Auto-Ordnance West Hurley production rather than an original interwar military Auto-Ordnance gun.
Barrel Length: 16.5” (finned profile with Cutts-style compensator)
Sights: Blade front with protective ears and adjustable rear ladder sight
Stock Configuration & Condition:
Walnut pistol grip, horizontal forearm and detachable shoulder stock in the classic Thompson configuration. Wood shows light handling marks, shallow impressions and scattered oil darkening but is sound and properly fitted to the receiver and trigger frame. Sling swivel present; green canvas sling attached.
Magazine / Accessories:
One 50-round “L” drum (marked Auto-Ordnance West Hurley) and one stick magazine included.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Factory original finish
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion or fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition:
Approximately 90%+ of the original finish remains. Light edge wear and minor handling marks are present near the ejection port, selector lever and magazine well. All roll marks remain crisp and legible. Overall a clean, well-cared for example of West Hurley production.
Mechanics:
Selector lever functions smoothly between “FIRE” and “SAFE.” Bolt cycles properly in the closed-bolt semi-automatic configuration. We did not fire this carbine. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories:
Includes one 50-round drum, one stick magazine and attached sling. No original box or paperwork is included.
Our Assessment:
The Thompson Model of 1927A1 remains one of the most instantly recognizable designs in American firearms history. Conceived by General John T. Thompson in the 1920s and immortalized through both law-enforcement and combat service, the Thompson’s silhouette—milled receiver, ladder sight, compensator and distinctive furniture—has become shorthand for early 20th-century small arms. West Hurley (Numrich era) Auto-Ordnance production, begun in the 1970s and continuing into the 1990s, reintroduced that aesthetic and build quality to the civilian market with semi-automatic, closed-bolt carbines intended for collectors and shooters who wanted the look and heft of the original without full-automatic operation.
This example, serial no. 18623, typifies the West Hurley approach: heavy, well-made, and faithful to the Thompson lineage. It presents well cosmetically, functions as intended in semi-auto form, and comes with the desirable 50-round drum—the classic accessory that completes the package for collectors. If you’re buying a Thompson for display or as a touchstone to the original “Tommy Gun” era, this West Hurley 1927A1 is persuasive both historically and visually.
KF
