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

Published on July 3, 2020
Duration: 12:54

The AJ Ordnance 'Thomas' is a rare .45 ACP pistol designed by Frank Thomas Jr. for concealed carry, featuring a unique grip-activated delayed blowback system. It operates as a hammerless, striker-fired, DA/SA pistol with a long, heavy trigger pull and relies on the shooter's grip to lock the action. Production was limited to approximately 600-700 units.

Quick Summary

The AJ Ordnance 'Thomas' is a rare .45 ACP pistol designed for concealed carry, featuring a unique delayed blowback system activated by the shooter's grip. It's hammerless, striker-fired, and has a long, heavy double-action trigger pull, with limited production numbers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: AJ Ordnance Thomas .45
  2. 00:34Unique Grip-Activated Locking System
  3. 01:07Concealed Carry Design Philosophy
  4. 02:23Physical Specs: Weight & Construction
  5. 03:03How the Grip Lever Works
  6. 04:53Safety & Operation Concerns
  7. 05:56Magazine Compatibility (.45 ACP)
  8. 08:09Disassembly & Internal Design
  9. 10:39Markings & Production Numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the unique feature of the AJ Ordnance 'Thomas' pistol's locking system?

The AJ Ordnance 'Thomas' pistol features a unique delayed blowback system where the locking mechanism is activated solely by the shooter's grip on the frame. This grip pressure engages an angled wedge that locks the slide.

What was the design goal for the AJ Ordnance 'Thomas' pistol?

The primary design goal was to create a concealed carry pistol chambered in .45 ACP. Frank Thomas Jr. envisioned a hammerless, striker-fired firearm without manual safeties, prioritizing simplicity and a secure grip.

How does the grip activation work on the AJ Ordnance 'Thomas'?

When the shooter grips the pistol, a lever depresses, raising arms that engage slots in the slide. Recoil theoretically strengthens this lock by pushing the gun back into the hand.

What are the safety concerns with the AJ Ordnance 'Thomas' pistol?

A significant safety concern is the lack of a firing pin safety disconnect. The pistol can potentially fire even if the grip lock isn't fully engaged, and the heavy striker spring might slightly pull the slide out of battery during the trigger pull.

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