Auto-Ordnance Thompson Tommy Gun 1927-A1 .45ACP 16” Semi-Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,300.00
LSB#: LSB260215BK018
Make: Auto-Ordnance
Model: Model of 1927-A1
Serial Number: 9996
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. 9996” “THOMPSON SEMI-AUTOMATIC CARBINE CALIBER .45 AUTOMATIC CARTRIDGE” “FIRE/SAFE”.
Barrel Length: 16”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade fixed to the barrel. The rear of the receiver has a fixed peep sight riveted to the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a three piece walnut set with a finger grooved forend, pistol grip with finger groove, and straight dropped combed stock with a sling loop and steel buttplate w/ storage door. There are light scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP is 16 3/4” from front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in Very Good + overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
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 but there is some light stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains about 98% of its original finish. There are light scratches and handling marks throughout. The action has light wear. The screw heads are sharp and serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle rates in about Very Good to Excellent overall condition.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Auto-Ordnance Model of 1927-A1 is a semi-automatic civilian version of the iconic Thompson submachine gun, one of the most recognizable firearms of the 20th century. Originally developed in the early 1920s, the Thompson gained widespread notoriety through military service, law enforcement use, and its association with the Prohibition era. The 1927-A1 variant adapts this historic design to a closed-bolt, semi-automatic configuration, complying with modern regulations while retaining the classic appearance and handling characteristics. Chambered in .45 ACP, a cartridge introduced in 1905 and long valued for its consistent performance, the rifle reflects the same powerful chambering used in the original Thompson. This example retains approximately 98 percent of its original blued finish, with light handling marks and minor scratches visible across the metal surfaces. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 9 out of 10, showing only light fouling. The walnut stock set remains in Very Good Plus condition, with light scratches and pressure dents but no structural damage, maintaining its classic configuration. Markings are clear and well defined, with sharp and serviceable screw heads, and the rifle maintains proper mechanical function.
The 1927-A1 preserves the distinctive profile of the Thompson, including its substantial receiver, traditional sights, and characteristic furniture, offering a semi-automatic platform that captures the look and feel of the original design. Its .45 ACP chambering provides a strong, controllable shooting experience, while the closed-bolt operation enhances reliability. This example stands as a well preserved representation of Auto-Ordnance’s modern Thompson carbine, combining historical styling, solid condition, and enduring appeal in one of the most iconic firearm designs ever produced. -R.E.