The Rarest Thompson In The World

Published on December 9, 2025
Duration: 22:53

Brandon Herrera explores a one-of-one prototype Thompson submachine gun chambered in .30-06 Springfield, a firearm previously thought to be mythical. The video details its unique colleted bolt mechanism, experimental friction-delay system, and modified BAR magazine, highlighting its historical significance and rarity. The prototype ultimately sold for $85,000 at auction, underscoring its value as a museum-quality artifact.

Quick Summary

The .30-06 Springfield Thompson prototype, a one-of-one firearm previously considered mythical, was showcased by Brandon Herrera. It features a unique colleted bolt for a friction-delayed blowback system and oil pads in the magazine to aid extraction. This historically significant artifact sold for $85,000 at auction.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the .30-06 Thompson Prototype
  2. 01:44Historical Context: .30-06 vs .45 ACP Thompson
  3. 03:02External Features & Markings of the Prototype
  4. 05:08Mechanical Overview: Stretched Upper Receiver
  5. 08:37The Unique Colleted Bolt Mechanism
  6. 10:07Technical Analysis: Blish Lock Ineffectiveness
  7. 11:43Extraction Aids: Oiled Cartridges & Narrow Ejection Port
  8. 14:43Comparison: .30 Carbine Thompson Prototype
  9. 16:04Auction Results: $85,000 for Rare Thompson

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the .30-06 Thompson prototype so rare?

This .30-06 Springfield Thompson submachine gun prototype is considered one-of-one and was previously an 'urban legend' due to a lack of documentation. Its existence was confirmed and showcased by Brandon Herrera at the Rock Island Auction.

What is the unique mechanism of the .30-06 Thompson prototype?

The prototype features a highly experimental colleted bolt mechanism. A plunger depresses, causing a collet to expand outward, creating a friction lock against the chamber walls for a delayed blowback system.

How did the .30-06 Thompson prototype aid in extraction?

To assist extraction in its high-pressure delayed blowback system, the magazine was equipped with oil pads. These pads lubricated the cartridges before they were chambered, a method not used in modern firearms due to dirt accumulation.

What was the auction price for the rare .30-06 Thompson prototype?

The extremely rare one-of-one .30-06 Springfield Thompson submachine gun prototype commanded a significant price at auction. The hammer price reached $85,000, reflecting its unique historical value and museum-quality status.

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