Auto Ordnance Thompson

[Juggernaut]

This October I will be able to legally purchase my first rifle. I will turn 18 this October, and I have already picked out the gun that I am 95% sure I want. Instead of waiting until late Sempter to do all my research and homework and ordering and all that, I want to go ahead and make sure that this gun checks out. I want something of historical significance, a vivid history, and overall good quality. I am eyeing the model that accepts drums and just looks like something from HollyWood. I have heard of the compensator falling off while shooting, and I think 13 pounds is pretty heavy.... Anyways, I was wondering if any of you guys have had any experience with one of these. Thanks, Juggernaut.

 

[GUTTERRATT]

The one's with historical value
WW2 1928 Savage $22,000 and up
Colt 1921/1928navy $35,000 and up

A shooter

West Hurley 1928
$18,000 and up


The compensator's will not fall off the above mentioned guns


P.S My favorite Full Auto gun is my Colt M16 hands down

 

[Ready.Fire.Aim]

If at all possible, shoot one first. I thought I really wanted one until I rented a FA and shot a few mags through it.

 

[SecondAmend]

There's a discussion of the current production semi-auto version here:

http://www.ar15.com/forums/t_6_48/445672_Semi_auto_Tommy.html

Best of luck with whatever you decide to pursue.

 

[kanewtervalve]

I've owned 3 over the years (semi), the first one was "lightweight" receiver, didn't like it, jammed with drums and sticks. 2nd one front was the GI version and the front sight flew off while shooting it and it jammed, sent it back and it shot fine, Kahr Arms was owner at the time. I traded that one. The one I have now is 1928 SBR and it is beautiful, shoots great with stick and drums. The drums are Tawain reproductions and they are better than the Kahr Arms drums. Obviously the full autos will set you back what a good used car costs, but if you want the look, weight and feel of the real deal without the price, SBR Thompson is the way to go.

 

[Juggernaut]

You guys have to remember that I am only going to be 18 so there's no way I can buy a FA. When I mentioned historical significance, I just meant something that everyone could recognize. I just want a SA version for around $1500. I've heard good reviews and bad reviews and I was hoping you guys wouldn't just give me a sales pitch.

 

[StooperZero]

i have the '28 lightweight sbr. something like 1200 rounds now with no issues no matter what ammo.



Ignore anyone that hasn't fired one first hand. These are very very simple guns and most issues are an easy fix . i suggest either modifying the mag catch for USGI mags or doing your own as the auto-ord semi mags will run you into the poor house. They charge $70 + for a magazine for what I was doing in under 90 seconds total with my mill.

and only go with the wood models.. we'll just ignore you if you buy that tactical looking version that looks like it's hosed down in bed liner.

 

[Juggernaut]

I definitely do not want the "Tactical" version. I am glad that you have first hand experience because that's what I'm looking for. Is there a significant difference with the lighter models? And may I ask when you got yours, and how much they were going for at the time? I have seen somewhat of a declination in prices since they were first introduced. I do not want to drop any more than around $1500.

 

[StooperZero]

i paid $1000 for mine, it was an A5 deluxe pistol that i sbr'd and reworked an original '28 lower frame to fit it.

Around here all the semi thompsons are pushing $975-1200 max.

 

[sniperdoc]

I love my Semi for historical reasons, but it's longer and heavier than an AR15. Hold,and shoot, one before purchase. Pm me if you want more info.

 

[Juggernaut]

I'm glad they're not sky high anymore, and they should be fairly available in my area. I had considered an MP5 replica, but they're just a little more than the Thompson, and not as cool either in my opinion.

 

[Super Dak©]

When I first returned from GW1, I ordered a new one (I believe it was like $1100? But that was a long time ago, '92?). Definitely was not the light weight version! Worked with drums and stick mags. Wood stock w/ pistol grip front. Basically that standard gangster gun look. Got it 'cus I always thought they looked so cool.
Definitely try to shoot one first! As mentioned, they are pretty heavy, especially with 50 rounds of .45 hanging on it. But also very cool and different! Got plenty of looks at the range. Mine always ran like a champ. I don't remember a single FTF, and never had any part come off. Ended up trading it to a dealer years later for an AR-15 (my first), which I sold when I got my M-16A1.
Try it and see if you like it, that's the best advice. I liked mine. I'd consider getting another in FA, just to have

 

[ChuckB]

+1 on shooting before you buy. I wanted one bad until a buddy bought one. Half way through the stick mag I'd had my fill.

I'd suggest the S&W 15-22. Not as cool looking, everyone has something similar, but you will likely never get bored with it.

 

[Juggernaut]

I really want one of these, and my only second option is an MP5 replica. I want something in a pistol round, and maybe a carbine version or so

 

[ChuckB]

If you really want one, well brother I've been there. I'll just suggest buying a used one, so if you don't like it, you don't eat the depreciation as hard.

 

[Super Dak©]

If you really want one, get one. But if you can shoot one first, it might be a good idea. More than a few people told me I wouldn't like firing 7.62 in full auto, or that the Israeli heavy BBL SAR-48 is too heavy. I love shooting it, and it's weight isn't an issue at all (I'm not lugging it around in combat all day )
If you get the Thompson, consider doing the SBR. Helps the weight and mobility (plus cool factor) and you can remove the stock. JMHO.

 

[kanewtervalve]

If you are still looking for an MP5 semi, check the POF pistol version at Atlantic Firearms, the sell for around 1500, you can always SBR it down the road because the will accept a stock.

 

[Juggernaut]

Thanks guys. I really appreciate the input and suggestions. I heard that Kahr/AO was not the easiest to deal with. Is that true?

 

[sniperdoc]

AO has always been cheerful and helpful when I've called. Maybe 5 times?

 

[kanewtervalve]

Both times I called Kahr Arms they put me through to the gunsmith, he was very helpful and pleasant to deal with.