US, WW2, M1A1 Thompson Submachine Gun (.45 ACP) – Auto-Ordnance Bridgeport, Savage Assembly, EU Deactivated

*US, WW2, M1A1 Thompson Submachine Gun (.45 ACP) – Auto-Ordnance Bridgeport, Savage Assembly, EU Deactivated*

Serial number: 301972

Original Second World War United States M1A1 Thompson Submachine Gun, chambered in .45 ACP and assembled during wartime production by Auto-Ordnance Corporation, Bridgeport, Connecticut, using components manufactured under U.S. Government contract by Savage Arms. This example represents the final wartime development of the Thompson design and retains the correct simplified M1A1 configuration introduced to reduce production time and cost.

The left-hand side of the receiver is crisply roll-marked “THOMPSON SUBMACHINE GUN / CALIBER .45 M1A1” and bears serial number 301972, applied to the left rear of the receiver and repeated beneath the trigger guard, both applications clear and matching. The right-hand side of the receiver is correctly marked “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORPORATION / BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT, U.S.A.”, while the top of the receiver bears the Thompson trademark. The weapon retains its correct wartime hardwood furniture throughout, including butt stock, pistol grip, and fore-end, all showing honest service wear consistent with military issue.

This example displays the encircled GEG acceptance mark on the receiver, the civilian inspection stamp of George E. Goll, Auto-Ordnance’s chief inspector. In addition, the receiver bears the FJA Army Inspector of Ordnance stamp of Colonel Frank J. Atwood, Rochester Ordnance District. Notably, no GHD inspection stamp is present, which is correct for weapons inspected under the Rochester Ordnance District rather than the Springfield Ordnance District. The combination of GEG and FJA markings is entirely consistent with M1A1 Thompson production incorporating Savage-manufactured components inspected at Rochester and assembled under Auto-Ordnance oversight.

Numerous small “S” inspection and component marks are present on individual parts, consistent with Savage manufacture, and are commonly encountered on M1 and M1A1 Thompsons assembled by Auto-Ordnance using Savage-produced components. The selector markings “FULL AUTO” (marked over two lines) / “SINGLE” and “FIRE / SAFE” remain clear and legible. The two-line FULL AUTO marking is characteristic of Savage-manufactured trigger frames, a correct and well-documented wartime feature. All factory roll marks are sharp, correctly positioned, and unaltered.

The firearm is accompanied by an original Auto-Ordnance manufactured Thompson magazine, clearly stamped “AUTO-ORDNANCE CORP / BRIDGEPORT, CONNECTICUT / REG. IN U.S. PAT. OFF.”, correct for wartime issue.

Approx. Measurements – Barrel length: approx. 19 mm (EU deactivation specification). Overall length: approx. 83 cm.

Historical Note:
Following the completion of M1928A1 production in October 1942, Auto-Ordnance concentrated exclusively on the simplified M1 and M1A1 Thompson models. The M1A1, introduced in late 1942, incorporated extensive redesigns including a fixed firing pin bolt, smooth barrel, and simplified sights, reducing production time by over ten labour hours per weapon compared to earlier models. Production of the M1A1 continued through late 1943 and into early 1944 due to delays in full-scale adoption of the U.S. M3 submachine gun. The final M1A1 Thompson was accepted by the U.S. government on 15 February 1944, marking the end of Thompson wartime manufacture.

*Condition*
EU deactivated to current specification. The bolt moves freely as intended, enhancing both display value and mechanical integrity. Metal surfaces retain an even aged finish with scattered light oxidation, handling marks, and service wear consistent with wartime manufacture and later service life. No evidence of heavy pitting, structural damage, or modern refinishing observed. The wooden furniture is solid and well fitted, showing surface wear, minor bruising, and age patina, with no major cracks or repairs noted. The magazine retains its correct period finish with service wear consistent with age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

Accompanied by its original EU Deactivation Certificate issued by Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House: Certificate No: 139847. Deactivated by: D & B Militaria. Date of certification: 21/03/2017. Manufacturer: Auto-Ordnance. Type: Sub Machine Gun. Calibre: .45 ACP. Serial number: 301972. Barrel length: 19 mm. Signed by R. J. Hancox, Proof Master

A well-documented, matching-number M1A1 Thompson Submachine Gun, retaining correct Auto-Ordnance markings, GEG and FJA inspection stamps, an original Auto-Ordnance magazine, and its Birmingham Proof House EU deactivation certificate.

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