Description
The Thompson 1927A-1 Lightweight Deluxe .45 ACP, 10.5in, 100rd is a semi-automatic pistol that brings the iconic Prohibition-era firepower into a modern, shootable package. Chambered in .45 ACP with a 10.50-inch finned barrel and a 100-round drum magazine, this model pairs an aluminum receiver and frame with genuine American walnut woodwork. It’s built for collectors and range enthusiasts who want the look and feel of the original Tommy Gun without the NFA hassles.
| Manufacturer | Thompson (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | 1927A-1 Lightweight Deluxe |
| Material | Aluminum receiver and frame, walnut stock and forend |
| Compatibility | .45 ACP ammunition; accepts stick and drum magazines |
| Finish | Blued barrel and metal components |
| Weight | Approximately 9.5 lbs (empty, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Classic 100-Round Drum Magazine – Why it matters: You get that unmistakable Tommy Gun silhouette and the capacity to keep the .45 ACP rounds flying without constant reloads. Perfect for extended range sessions or nostalgic plinking.
- 10.5-Inch Finned Barrel – Why it matters: The iconic cooling fins aren’t just for show—they help dissipate heat during sustained fire and give the pistol its signature gangster-era look. The shorter length keeps the overall package more manageable than the full-size rifle.
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame – Why it matters: The original steel Thompson weighed a ton. This aluminum receiver and frame drop the weight significantly (under 10 lbs empty), making it easier to shoulder and carry for a full day at the range.
- Genuine American Walnut Woodwork – Why it matters: Real walnut stocks and forend provide a warm, classic grip that modern synthetics can’t match. It’s the kind of wood that develops a patina with use, adding character over time.
- Thumb Safety and Blade Front Sight – Why it matters: The thumb safety gives you a fast, positive on/off control without fumbling, and the blade front sight is period-correct for quick target acquisition. It’s a shooter-friendly setup that honors the original design.
Who It’s For
This Thompson is built for the collector who wants a piece of history that fires, and the range shooter who doesn’t want to baby a safe queen. If you’re into EDC gear but also appreciate a heavy-hitting .45 ACP that turns heads at the range, this fits. It’s not a concealed carry piece—it’s a statement gun for the range bag or display case.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Authentic look and feel, lightweight aluminum build, 100-round drum included, reliable blowback action, walnut furniture is top-notch.
- Cons: The drum magazine is heavy when loaded (adds about 3 lbs), and the thumb safety can be stiff out of the box—expect a break-in period. Also, it’s a niche piece; not everyone needs a 10.5-inch .45 pistol with a drum.
Comparison
| Feature | Thompson 1927A-1 Lightweight Deluxe | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | 9mm / .40 S&W |
| Barrel Length | 10.5 inches | 4.5 inches | 4.6 inches |
| Capacity | 100 rounds (drum) | 17+1 (mag) | 15+1 (mag) |
| Weight | ~9.5 lbs | ~1.8 lbs | ~2.1 lbs |
| Intended Use | Collector, range toy, historical shooter | Competition, duty, carry | Custom build, range, carry |
| Price | $1,756.46 | ~$1,800 | ~$400 (frame only) |
The Zev OZ9 is a modern competition pistol with a shorter barrel and lighter weight, while the Lone Wolf Timberwolf is a budget-friendly build platform. The Thompson wins on historical authenticity, capacity, and pure cool factor.
FAQ
Is this a real Thompson submachine gun?
No. This is the semi-automatic 1927A-1 Lightweight Deluxe pistol, not an NFA-regulated machine gun. It fires one round per trigger pull and is legal to own without a tax stamp in most states. Check your local laws.
Can I use standard 1911 magazines with this?
No. The Thompson uses its own proprietary stick magazines (20- or 30-round) and the included 100-round drum. Standard 1911 mags will not fit.
Is the drum magazine reliable?
Yes, per manufacturer specs, the drum is designed for reliable feeding with standard .45 ACP ball ammunition. Some hollow points may cause feeding issues—stick to 230-grain FMJ for best performance.
What’s the difference between this and the standard 1927A-1?
The Lightweight Deluxe uses an aluminum receiver and frame instead of steel, dropping the weight by about 3-4 pounds. It also includes the genuine walnut furniture and a shorter 10.5-inch barrel versus the 16.5-inch rifle barrel.
Trust Block
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Browse more in Semi Auto Handguns or check out our .45 ACP Pistols and Collector Firearms categories.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.