September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/10/2024
This is an exceptionally attractive Savage manufactured M1A1 Thompson machine gun with fitted pelican case and two G.I. 30-round magazines. This gun has a highly desirable M1 Thompson bolt with hammer actuated firing pin. Right side of receiver marked “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT U.S.A.”. Left side marked as “M1A1”. Both upper and lower assemblies marked with “S”, indicating Savage manufacture, with the lower assembly serial number non-matching (269656). This M1A1 has an upgraded, synthetic buffer that cuts down on wear and tear when the gun is fired. The M1A1 Thompson was produced in great numbers for World War II as a simplified and less costly to produce evolution of the 1928A1 Thompson. It eliminated the Blish lock system, making the receiver easier to manufacture, and eliminated the Cutts compensator. Both the M1 and the M1A1 Thompsons have the cocking handle/actuator on the right side as opposed to the top of the receiver. The M1A1 Thompson will not accept drum magazines, only stick magazines. This specimen has the simplified non-adjustable “L” rear sight with protective “ears”. Thompson Bullet Logo on the top of the receiver. Electronic NFA registry indicates “AUTO ORDNANCE” as the manufacturer. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (BATF) is in the process of removing restrictions on what they call "GOVT Use Exception" previously Pre-86 Dealer Sample restricted machine guns. This is one such gun. Guns imported which were designated as Pre-86 Dealer Samples which fall into the special category of going immediately into the possession of Law Enforcement for a significant period of time are eligible to have their restrictions removed and become Fully Transferable to individuals. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is near excellent matte gray government arsenal refinish, including the buttplate. Wood of forend is near excellent, with handgrips and buttstock showing light handling marks and slight bruises in places. Most, if not nearly all, World War II issued M1 and M1A1 Thompsons underwent arsenal refurbishment after WWII. This one apparently acquired an early M1 bolt incidental to this process. Bore is extremely fine, shiny and bright. Bolt face extremely fine. Mechanics are crisp. This is a select-fire machine gun. This specimen is a very attractive gun. THIS IS A NATIONAL FIREARMS ACT ITEM AND REQUIRES BATF APPROVAL PRIOR TO TRANSFER. THIS ITEM IS FULLY TRANSFERABLE ON AN ATF FORM 3 OR 4. JWK 2024-09-060.
ADDENDUM: A photo of this gun in the Pelican case has been added.
Manufacturer
Auto Ordnance