GUN SPRING 2018
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/21/2018
FINE WWII VINTAGE BRIDGEPORT M1 THOMPSON WITH MAGAZINES AND WEB GEAR (CURIO & RELIC)AUTO ORDNANCEM1 THOMPSON178768.45 ACPMODERN; NFA; C&RCal. .45 ACP. Bbl 13 3/4". Fine Auto Ordinance Bridgeport Thompson in its classic military configuration, including desirable side-mounted forend swing swivel. Both upper and lower exhibit small "S" proof marks, indicating Savage manufacture. Includes 5 20-rd Bridgeport marked magazines w/in orig web magazine pouch, attached to pistol belt and shoulder suspension straps. Also included are 6 GI 30-rd magazines in M3 grease gun magazine pouches. Gun exhibits typical right and left receiver markings and proof marks w/fixed peep sight. Smooth bbl, non-detachable buttstock and orig GI web .30 M1 carbine sling complete this ensemble, which also includes an orig brass 2-pc cleaning rod w/tip and an orig armed forces ordinance manual, which encompasses all 3 of the military model Thompson machine guns. The MI and M1A1! machine guns were the final refinement of the Thompson machine gun model, which were far less costly to produce than their predecessors. This is a National Firearms Act item and requires BATF approval prior to transfer. This weapon is fully transferable on an ATF form 4 as Curio & Relic eligible. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish very fine, orig high lustrous blue finish on bbl w/a dull gray parkerized re-finish on other parts. Number on underside of lower does not match upper receiver SN. Mechanics are crisp, bore is fine, shiny with some firing residue in the grooves. Wooden forend originally had sling swivel mounted on underside, but this swivel has been re-located to the left side w/the corresponding vacated hole professionally filled, with a matching piece of walnut. Very professional work. Underside of receiver turning a gray patina. Wood furnishings have some light handling marks and have been lightly sanded and refinished. Butt stock exhibits evidence of the sling swivel having been on top of butt stock w/2 discernible plugged holes. Currently, rear sling swivel is at bottom of butt stock. It was popular, particularly for British forces, to have the sling swivels located at top of butt stock and side of forend. Magazines and web gear are in very fine condition, as is the ordinance manual. The Thompson is universally held in high regard by both veterans, collectors and also recreational shooting enthusiasts. It is not often that specimens w/the sling swivels in this configuration surface. This should find a welcome spot in a discerning Thompson afficianado's ollection. 53232-1 JWK (15,000-20,000)