Auto-Ordnance Thompson Tommy Gun 1927-A1 .45ACP 16” Semi-Auto rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,385.00
LSB#: LSB251109DC120
Make: Auto-Ordnance
Model: Model of 1927-A1
Serial Number: 12002
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Closed Bolt Blowback with Detachable Magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with a bullet-shaped trademark stamp. The right side of the receiver is marked with the US Patents and “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION WEST HURLEY NEW YORK”. The left side of the receiver is marked with “MODEL OF 1927 A1 NO. 12002” “THOMPSON SEMI-AUTOMATIC CARBINE CALIBER .45 AUTOMATIC CARTRIDGE” “FIRE/SAFE”.
Barrel Length: 16”. 18” including the Cutts style compensator.
Sights / Optics: Blade front and open rear adjustable fold up ladder aperture sight marked out to 6.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a three piece walnut set with a finger grooved foregrip forend, pistol grip with finger groove, and straight combed stock with a sling loop and steel buttplate. There are light scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no cracks, but there are a few small chips. The LOP is 16 3/4” from front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in Very Good to Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One x Thompson Center 30rd stick magazines.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains about 99% of its original finish. There are light scratches throughout. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle rates in about Excellent overall condition.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: 1x Magazine.
Our Assessment: This Auto-Ordnance Model of 1927-A1 Thompson represents the modern semi automatic continuation of one of the most iconic American firearm designs of the twentieth century. While mechanically distinct from the original select fire military Thompsons, the 1927-A1 preserves the unmistakable profile, weight, and visual character that made the Thompson famous during the Prohibition era and the Second World War. Produced as a closed bolt semi automatic rifle to meet modern regulations, this example captures the historic aesthetic of the Tommy Gun while offering contemporary reliability and civilian legality. Chambered in .45 ACP, the rifle retains the authoritative cartridge that defined the Thompson’s reputation for close range effectiveness. The 16 inch barrel with Cutts style compensator maintains the classic silhouette, while the original style blade front sight and adjustable rear ladder sight marked to 6 provide a correct period inspired sighting system. The bore is excellent, rating 9.5 out of 10, with bright surfaces and sharp rifling and no erosion present, indicating minimal use. Mechanically, the action functions correctly and reflects the robust, overbuilt nature traditionally associated with the Thompson design.
Overall condition is outstanding, with approximately 99 percent of the original blued finish remaining and only light handling marks visible. The walnut stock set, including the finger grooved foregrip and pistol grip, shows minor scratches and small chips but no cracks, presenting in Very Good to Excellent condition. Markings are clear, screw heads remain sharp, and the rifle includes a 30 round stick magazine. Taken as a whole, this 1927-A1 offers a well preserved and visually striking example of the modern Thompson, blending historic presence with excellent condition and strong mechanical integrity. -R.E.
