AJ Ordnance "Thomas" - A .45 Locked by Grip Alone

Published on July 3, 2020
Duration: 12:54

This guide details the field stripping procedure for the rare AJ Ordnance Thomas pistol, a .45 ACP handgun designed by Frank Thomas Jr. The process is straightforward, involving two spring-loaded buttons at the rear of the slide. Expert analysis highlights its unique grip-activated locking mechanism and historical context.

Quick Summary

The AJ Ordnance Thomas is a rare .45 ACP pistol featuring a unique grip-activated delayed blowback locking system. Designed for concealed carry, it is hammerless, striker-fired, and DAO with a heavy trigger pull. Its all-steel construction makes it weigh 32 ounces, and only an estimated 600-700 units were produced.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and History
  2. 00:34Unique Locking System
  3. 01:07Design Philosophy
  4. 02:23Physical Characteristics
  5. 03:03Grip-Activated Mechanism
  6. 04:53Safety and Operation Concerns
  7. 05:56Magazine Compatibility
  8. 08:09Disassembly and Internals
  9. 10:39Markings and Production Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the unique locking mechanism of the AJ Ordnance Thomas pistol?

The AJ Ordnance Thomas pistol employs a delayed blowback system using an angled wedge. Uniquely, the motive power for this locking wedge is generated directly from the shooter's grip on the frame, theoretically strengthening the lock during firing.

What was the design philosophy behind the AJ Ordnance Thomas?

The goal was a concealed carry pistol in .45 ACP. Designer Frank Thomas Jr. aimed for a hammerless, striker-fired gun without manual safeties, resulting in a long, heavy double-action trigger pull akin to a revolver.

How many AJ Ordnance Thomas pistols were produced?

Production numbers for the AJ Ordnance Thomas are quite low, with estimates suggesting only about 600 to 700 units were manufactured. Commercial serial numbers typically began at 1000.

What are the key physical characteristics of the AJ Ordnance Thomas?

The AJ Ordnance Thomas is an all-steel pistol weighing 32 ounces (2 lbs). It is relatively wide for a concealed carry firearm but features drift-adjustable sights and a fixed barrel.

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