An Iconic American Firearm brought to you by Cultists

Published on May 14, 2025
Duration: 17:48

This review of the Auto-Ordnance 1927 A1 Thompson semi-automatic variant highlights significant reliability issues and a high cost of entry. The firearm is prone to problems such as difficult charging, broken firing pins, and faulty magazine catches. While the gun offers an iconic aesthetic and surprising accuracy, extensive modifications and part replacements are often necessary for it to function reliably, making it a questionable purchase for most consumers.

Quick Summary

The Auto-Ordnance 1927 A1 Thompson semi-automatic variant is an iconic firearm but suffers from significant reliability issues. Common problems include stiff charging handles, broken firing pins, and faulty magazine catches. Modifications like installing a Howell Arms spring kit, reinforcing the magazine catch, and using reliable aftermarket drum magazines are often necessary for proper function, making it a costly and labor-intensive purchase.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 1927 A1 Thompson
  2. 00:31History of the Thompson Submachine Gun
  3. 00:57NFA and Hughes Amendment Impact
  4. 02:01Auto-Ordnance Semi-Automatic Variant
  5. 02:39Challenges and Cost of the 1927 A1
  6. 03:53Ownership of Auto-Ordnance (Mooneyies/Rod of Iron)
  7. 04:48ATF Modifications for Semi-Auto
  8. 06:15Magazine Compatibility Issues
  9. 07:07Essential Modifications for Reliability
  10. 07:40Common Failure Points (Firing Pin, Mag Catch)
  11. 08:19Rear Sight Issues
  12. 08:58Drum Magazine Problems
  13. 09:31Reliable Drum Magazine Sources
  14. 10:17Drum Magazine Loading and Removal
  15. 11:20Overall Value Proposition
  16. 11:54Positive Aspects: Accuracy and Feel
  17. 12:41Variable Trigger Pull
  18. 13:37Disassembly Process
  19. 14:05Final Recommendation and Warning
  20. 14:45Future Appearances on Channel
  21. 16:13Channel Support and Disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reliability issues with the Auto-Ordnance 1927 A1 Thompson?

The Auto-Ordnance 1927 A1 Thompson suffers from several reliability issues, including stiff charging handles requiring spring kits, frequent firing pin breakages, and magazine catches that can fail. Drum magazines, especially those branded by Auto-Ordnance, are often incompatible or malfunction frequently.

What modifications are necessary to make the 1927 A1 Thompson function reliably?

To improve reliability, users often need to install a modified spring kit from Howell Arms, repair or replace broken firing pins, reinforce the magazine catch, and secure the rear sight screws with Loctite. Sourcing reliable drum magazines from alternative manufacturers is also crucial.

Why are original Thompson magazines incompatible with the 1927 A1 semi-automatic?

The semi-automatic 1927 A1 required modifications for ATF approval, including changes to the magazine catch and the location of the locking hole on the magazine. This prevents original military-issue Thompson magazines from fitting or functioning correctly in the semi-automatic variant.

What is the typical price range for the Auto-Ordnance 1927 A1 Thompson?

As of the video's recording, the Auto-Ordnance 1927 A1 Thompson semi-automatic variant typically costs between $2,400 and $2,500. This high price point, coupled with the common need for immediate modifications, makes it a significant investment.

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