Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1C .45 ACP 18in 50rd Drum
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Expert review
About this product
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1C .45 ACP 18in 50rd Drum is a semi-automatic carbine that replicates the iconic Thompson submachine gun design while meeting modern sporting rifle regulations. Built with an aluminum alloy receiver and walnut-grain polymer furniture, this firearm maintains the classic look while reducing weight to 8.05 pounds unloaded. The 18-inch barrel length keeps it squarely in Title I rifle territory, avoiding the NFA restrictions that affect shorter-barreled versions.
What is the Thompson 1927A-1C used for?
The Thompson 1927A-1C serves primarily as a range toy and collector's piece that delivers the iconic Thompson experience without the federal paperwork. It functions well for recreational shooting, historical reenactments, and as a conversation starter at the range. The semi-automatic operation and .45 ACP chambering make it suitable for controlled, deliberate shooting rather than rapid fire.
How does the Thompson 1927A-1C compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Thompson 1927A-1C offers dramatically different utility compared to the workhorse Stevens 334 in .308 Win, which is objectively better for hunting and precision shooting. Where the Stevens provides practical accuracy and hunting capability, the Thompson delivers historical authenticity and distinctive aesthetics. The Stevens' bolt-action system offers superior accuracy potential, while the Thompson's semi-auto action prioritizes the classic look and feel.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Thompson 1927A-1C measures 41 inches overall with an 18-inch barrel and weighs 8.05 pounds empty. The length makes it comparable to many modern sporting rifles, though the weight distribution feels more muzzle-heavy than contemporary designs. The 50-round drum magazine adds approximately 4.2 pounds when fully loaded, bringing the total operational weight to over 12 pounds.
Who is this NOT for?
The Thompson 1927A-1C is not for practical defense use or budget-conscious shooters who value efficiency over aesthetics. The $1,620 price tag buys you nostalgia rather than modern performance, and the .45 ACP ammunition costs significantly more than 9mm alternatives. Serious hunters should consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win for actual field use.
What's in the box?
The package includes the rifle itself, one 50-round drum magazine, one 20-round stick magazine, and basic documentation. You'll need to supply your own .45 ACP ammunition, cleaning supplies, and hearing protection. The drum magazine requires careful winding and loading, typically taking 3-5 minutes to prepare for range use.
Is the Thompson 1927A-1C worth it at $1,620?
At $1,620, the Thompson 1927A-1C represents fair value for collectors and Thompson enthusiasts who appreciate the historical significance. The price reflects the specialized manufacturing required for the complex receiver and drum magazine system. For the shooter who wants iconic styling above all else, it delivers exactly what it promises.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 8.05 lb weight - 2.3 lb lighter than all-steel Thompson replicas
- Includes both 50-round drum and 20-round stick magazines - $120 value separately
- 41-inch overall length qualifies as standard rifle under federal law
- Authentic Thompson styling with modern aluminum receiver construction
Trade-offs
- Polymer furniture feels less substantial than genuine walnut - $300 upgrade cost for wood
- Drum magazine adds 4.2 lb when loaded, affecting balance
- Fixed sights limit precision compared to optics-ready modern rifles
- .45 ACP ammunition costs $0.45/round versus $0.28 for 9mm
Key attributes
| upc | 602686212137 |
| manufacturer | Kahr Arms |
| manufacturer part number | T5P50D |
| shipping weight | 22.85 |
| sights | Blade Front/Rear Adjustable |
| product type | Rifle |
| number of magazines | 2 50 rd. Drum & 20 rd. Stick |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 50 + 1 |
| package height | 6.0 |
| package width | 16.0 |
| barrel length | 18" |
| action | Semi-Auto |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard .45 ACP ammunition?
- Yes, it functions reliably with most factory 230-grain FMJ .45 ACP ammunition. Avoid +P or specialty loads unless specifically recommended by Auto-Ordnance. The fixed sights are regulated for standard pressure rounds at 50 yards.
- Is the drum magazine difficult to load?
- The 50-round drum requires winding with the included key and careful cartridge placement. Expect to spend 3-4 minutes loading it fully versus 30 seconds for the stick magazine. Practice improves efficiency, but it's inherently more complex than modern designs.
- Can I legally own this without special permits?
- Yes, the 18-inch barrel and 41-inch overall length make this a Title I firearm, transferable through standard FFL procedures. No NFA paperwork is required, unlike the original 10.5-inch barreled military versions that require a tax stamp.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes Thompson shipments within 3 business days, with transit times of 2-5 additional days depending on FFL location. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required at delivery.
- Does it come with a warranty?
- Auto-Ordnance provides a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day return policy for un-fired firearms if issues are discovered during initial inspection.