May 8-10, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/8/2024
This is a very nice example of a Thompson originally manufactured as an M1 model, but later government converted to M1A1 specifications. One can see from the markings on the left side of the receiver that they were originally “M1” and that the “A1” was added. There is an M1A1 bolt with a fixed firing pin in this gun. One 30-round magazine is included with this lot. Right side of receiver marked “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT U.S.A.”. Both upper and lower assemblies marked with “S”, indicating Savage manufacture, with lower number obliterated with strike-overs. 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 a “Lyman” manufactured simplified non-adjustable “L” rear sight without any protective “ears” on either side. Thompson bullet logo on the top of the receiver, and clear inspector’s proofs on left side of the receiver near the chamber. Electronic NFA registry indicates “AUTO ORDNANCE” as the manufacturer. CONDITION: Overall finish and appearance is near excellent matte gray government arsenal refinish, with some slight loss of finish from handling. Vertical forend is a replacement, as is the buttstock. Most, if not nearly all, World War II issued M1 and M1A1 Thompsons underwent arsenal refurbishment after WWII. Bore is near excellent, shiny and bright. Bolt face is near excellent. This is a select-fire machine gun. The Thompson machine guns made by Savage during the WWII era are the most durable of the Thompsons. This specimen, with its vertical forend will no doubt be a fun gun to take to the range, and fits into a category of the transition of the Thompson from M1 to M1A1 from a collector’s standpoint. The acquisition of an original horizontal forend will be straightforward if desired, as these are available. 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 AS CURIO AND RELIC ELIGIBLE. JWK 2024-05-068.
Accessories
1 magazine total
Manufacturer
Auto Ordnance