Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando .45 ACP 16.5″
About this product
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando .45 ACP 16.5″ is a semi-automatic reproduction carbine that maintains the aesthetic and mechanical essence of the original 1928 Thompson Submachine Gun while using a closed-bolt, blowback-operated system compliant with modern firearm regulations. Its 16.5-inch finned barrel with a pinned compensator ensures an overall length of 18 inches, satisfying the federal minimum for a rifle without NFA registration. Chambered in .45 ACP, it ships with one 20-round stick magazine and features parkerized steel and black-finished American walnut furniture.
What is the Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando used for?
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando is used for collector display, recreational range shooting, and semi-automatic action shooting competitions like those hosted by the Thompson Collectors Association. It delivers authentic historical handling with the practical reliability of a modern semi-automatic firearm, making it ideal for enthusiasts who want the iconic Thompson experience without the legal hurdles and cost associated with a transferable, full-auto original. Its robust 13-pound weight and .45 ACP chambering offer manageable recoil for sustained fun during a 200-round range session.
How does the Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando is fundamentally different from a bolt-action platform like the Stevens 334 Rifle; the Thompson is better for rapid, volume fire at close to mid-range metallic targets using its 20-round magazine capacity, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win is superior for precision, single-shot placement at distances beyond 300 yards. The Thompson operates on simple blowback recoil, offering a higher potential rate of fire, whereas the Stevens uses a controlled-feed bolt action designed for reliable cartridge extraction under hunting conditions where one shot matters more than twenty.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando weighs 13 pounds (approximately 5.9 kilograms) and measures 41 inches in overall length. Its 16.5-inch barrel adds significant forward mass, which contributes to its stable shooting platform but requires deliberate physical handling compared to lighter modern carbines. The receiver width is 1.5 inches, and the distance from the trigger to the rear of the buttstock is 13.5 inches, accommodating a standard length of pull.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for a shooter seeking a lightweight, modular home-defense carbine or a first-time firearm buyer on a limited budget. The 13-pound weight and 41-inch length make it cumbersome for dynamic, close-quarters manipulation, and its proprietary, non-AR-pattern design means aftermarket support for optics mounts and modern stocks is limited compared to platforms like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U. It is also a poor choice for anyone unwilling to perform regular maintenance on its intricate, multi-piece vertical forend and friction-fit bolt assembly.
What's in the box?
In the box you receive the carbine itself, one 20-round stick magazine, and a factory manual outlining operation, takedown, and warranty procedures. Auto-Ordnance does not include a cleaning kit, sling, or case by default, so plan for an additional $85-$150 in essential accessories before your first range trip. The manual is crucial for understanding the unique takedown procedure involving the rear receiver pin and actuator knob—a process that takes about 90 seconds once mastered.
Is the Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando worth it at $1632.99?
At $1632.99, it is worth it for a collector or historical shooter who values authenticity and robust construction over modern practicality. You are paying for the correct profile, steel-on-steel fitment, and the legitimate Auto-Ordnance lineage, not for cutting-edge features. Compared to a $600 modern polymer-framed pistol-caliber carbine, you get a tangible piece of firearms history you can shoot, but you sacrifice weight, accessory compatibility, and ease of maintenance for that historical fidelity.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Authentic 1928 Thompson profile with a 16.5" finned barrel and pinned compensator for NFA-compliant 18" overall length
- All-steel construction with parkerized finish weighs 13 lbs, providing a stable, low-recoil platform for .45 ACP
- Accepts both original-pattern 20-round stick and 50-round drum magazines for extended range sessions
- Closed-bolt, blowback operation ensures reliable cycling with standard-pressure 230-grain FMJ ammunition
Trade-offs
- Proprietary takedown requires removing a small rear receiver pin—easy to lose during field stripping
- Black-painted walnut furniture shows wear quickly at contact points compared to oil-finished stocks
- Significant forward weight bias makes off-hand shooting tiring after 30-40 rounds without supported rests
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 602686213004 |
| manufacturer | Auto-Ordnance |
| manufacturer part number | T1C |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 16.50" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 20 + 1 |
| length | 41 |
| number of magazines | 1 / 20 rd. Stick |
| package height | 6.0 |
| package width | 15.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Lever Action |
| shipping weight | 23.9 |
| sights | Blade Front/Fixed Battle Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 50-round Thompson drum magazines?
- Yes, the Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Commando is compatible with original-pattern 50-round and 100-round drum magazines, provided they are manufactured for the semi-auto 1927A-1 model. You must verify the drum is marked for 'semi-auto' use, as drums made for original full-auto guns may not engage the semi-auto bolt catch correctly. Expect to pay between $250 and $400 for a quality aftermarket 50-round drum from vendors like Kahr Arms or Numrich Gun Parts.
- Does the pinned compensator make it California compliant?
- No, the pinned compensator alone does not make this firearm California compliant. The Thompson 1927A-1 Commando, in its standard configuration, is classified as an assault weapon under California law due to its combination of a pistol grip, detachable magazine, and threaded barrel (under the barrel shroud). Compliance would require permanent modification, such as pinning and welding a non-threaded muzzle device and potentially using a fixed-magazine kit, which we recommend consulting with a California-specific dealer like RifleGear for installation.
- How long does shipping take after purchase?
- Shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 7-10 business days after order verification and payment processing, not including the mandatory 3-day FFL processing and background check period upon arrival. We use insured carriers with adult signature requirements. During peak seasons or promotional periods, allow up to 14 business days for warehouse processing before shipment.
- Can I mount a red dot sight or scope on this model?
- Mounting a modern optic requires an aftermarket accessory. The factory receiver has no Picatinny rail. You will need a dedicated mount, such as the Aimpoint Micro pattern mount from RS Regulate or the Picatinny rail adapter from Buffalo Arms, which attaches via the rear sight screw holes. This installation process adds approximately $120-$180 to your total cost and may require professional gunsmithing to ensure proper alignment and zero retention.