Auto Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Deluxe .45 ACP

The Auto Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 Deluxe .45 ACP is a semi-automatic carbine that reproduces the iconic 1921 Thompson with modern manufacturing tolerances. It ships with both a 20-round stick magazine and a 50-round drum magazine, finished in blued steel with American walnut furniture. This is a shooter’s collectible, not a safe queen—it runs on .45 ACP hardball and feeds reliably from both magazines, per Auto Ordnance specs.

Key Features

• Authentic 1921 Thompson Profile: The 1927A-1 Deluxe retains the original Lyman-style rear sight, Cutts compensator, and finned barrel. Why it matters: You get the exact look and feel of a Prohibition-era trench broom without the NFA headache.
• 50-Round Drum Magazine Included: This carbine ships with the iconic 50-round drum plus a 20-round stick. Why it matters: You can run a full drum for period-correct shooting events or switch to the stick for lighter handling at the range.
• Blued Steel and Walnut Construction: The receiver and barrel are blued steel, and the furniture is American walnut. Why it matters: This finish resists corrosion and holds up to repeated handling, while the wood gives you a classic grip that modern polymer can’t match.
• Semi-Automatic .45 ACP Action: The blowback system cycles reliably with standard .45 ACP ammunition. Why it matters: You get the same thumping recoil and muzzle rise as the original, but in a legal semi-auto format that fits any range or collection.
• Traditional Thompson Sights: The rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation, with a blade front post. Why it matters: You can zero for 50 or 100 yards, making this carbine practical for steel plates or paper targets.

Who It’s For

This carbine is built for three types of shooters. First, collectors who want a display piece that also runs at the range. Second, reenactors and period shooting event participants who need a .45 ACP that looks and handles like a 1921 Thompson. Third, range enthusiasts who want the tactile experience of a 13-pound blued-steel carbine with a drum magazine. If you already own a 1911, this is the natural companion—same caliber, same manual of arms.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: Both magazines included (20-round stick and 50-round drum) saves you $200+ on separate purchases.
• Pro: Blued finish and walnut furniture hold value better than parkerized or synthetic options.
• Con: The 13-pound weight makes it less practical for long walks or tactical classes—this is a bench or stationary shooter.
• Con: The drum magazine requires a specific loading technique; first-time users may experience feeding issues if they don’t load the drum correctly.

Comparison

FAQ

Trust Block

• ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✓ 30-day returns
• ✓ Secure checkout

Last updated: April 2026

According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the .45 ACP remains one of the top three pistol calibers in the U.S. market, with over 40% of handgun owners owning at least one .45 ACP firearm. The Thompson 1927A-1 Deluxe gives you that same caliber in a carbine platform with historic provenance.

Related categories: Semi Auto Rifles | .45 ACP Firearms | Collector Guns