Auto-Ordnance

Auto-Ordnance (often searched as Auto Ordance, auto ordanance, or mistakenly auto ordinance) is the company behind the world-famous “Tommy Gun” and a modern maker of classic military-style 1911 pistols and custom Thompson reproductions. Founded to bring John T. Thompson’s trench-sweeper concept to life, Auto-Ordnance blends historic authenticity with contemporary manufacturing so shooters can own icons of 20th-century firearms history.

Tactical Precision

Auto-Ordnance products recreate the feel and function of the originals while being built to modern tolerances. Whether it’s a heavy, full-scale Thompson carbine or a steel-frame 1911A1, these guns are engineered for consistent operation, reliable feeding, and robust sighting options suitable for sport, collecting, and defensive use.

Heritage & Authenticity

If you want the look, heft, and controls of a classic Thompson or the GI-spec 1911 experience, Auto-Ordnance reproductions keep the vintage lines and features shooters expect—walnut furniture, blued steel finishes, period correct sights, and historically accurate receiver details—backed by a brand that literally wrote the chapter on the “Tommy Gun.”

Durability Without Compromise

Auto-Ordnance builds on proven designs: heavy steel receivers, full-size barrels, and traditional wood stocks on their long guns; all-steel construction, grip safeties and thumb safeties on their 1911 pistols. These are firearms meant to be handled, shot, and displayed—crafted for longevity and to perform when called upon.

Product Focus

Thompson 1927A-1 (Classic .45 ACP Tommy Gun)

A big, iconic semi-auto carbine that channels the original 1927 style: .45 ACP caliber, long 16.5" finned barrel (compensator options available), authentic walnut furniture and heavy-steel receiver for the classic look and feel. Ideal for collectors and range owners who want the full-size Thompson presence.

Shop Thompson 1927A-1 (Classic .45 ACP Tommy Gun)

Thompson M1 (WWII-Era Replica, Semi-Auto)

A faithful M1 replica built in .45 ACP with the familiar side-bolt silhouette and military ergonomics. The M1 model is a great pick for history enthusiasts seeking a WWII-era Thompson appearance with modern semi-auto legality and workmanship.

Shop Thompson M1 (WWII-Era Replica, Semi-Auto)

Auto-Ordnance 1911A1 GI (.45 ACP / 9mm)

A rugged, GI-spec 1911A1 that recreates the service pistol experience: steel frame, 5" (and 4.25" compact options), thumb and grip safeties, and available in .45 ACP and 9mm versions. It’s a classic 1911 platform for collectors, carry-style shooters, or those who want a military-pattern pistol at a practical price point.

Shop Auto-Ordnance 1911A1 GI (.45 ACP / 9mm)

Frequently asked questions

What is the history of Auto-Ordnance?

Auto-Ordnance was founded in 1916 by Col. John T. Thompson to develop what became the Thompson submachine gun—the “Tommy Gun.” The company’s name and early work are deeply tied to that design and its use in law enforcement and WWII.

Which Auto-Ordnance models are most popular?

Top sellers and interest drivers are the Thompson 1927A-1 variants (replica Thompsons in .45 ACP), the M1 WWII-style Thompsons, and the Auto-Ordnance 1911A1 GI pistols. Limited editions and deluxe Thompsons also draw strong collector demand.

How do I choose between a Thompson and an Auto-Ordnance 1911?

Choose a Thompson if you want a historic long gun with presence and collector appeal (and if you enjoy shooting pistol-caliber carbines). Choose a 1911 if you want a carryable, single-handable classic pistol with proven ergonomics and service-pistol history. Consider intended use, budget, and storage/registration requirements.

What accessories and magazines are available for Thompson reproductions?

Common accessories include stick magazines (10–30 rd), drum magazines (historical 50 rd drums), slings, replacement walnut furniture, and hard cases. Note: drum availability and legality vary by jurisdiction.

How should I maintain an Auto-Ordnance gun?

Always unload before maintenance. Clean the bore with appropriate brushes and solvent, wipe the action and metal parts, lightly oil moving surfaces, and store in a dry, secure location. Regular inspection prevents corrosion and keeps feeding reliable.

Are there modern / new releases from Auto-Ordnance?

Yes — Auto-Ordnance continues new product runs and special editions; recent trade-show coverage (NRAAM 2025) highlighted lightweight polymer-furniture Thompsons and limited luxury editions, showing the brand’s move toward more accessible and collector-oriented offerings.

About

Auto-Ordnance reproduces iconic American firearms with period-correct styling and modern manufacturing. We build Thompsons, GI-style 1911s, and custom long guns for collectors and shooters. Products emphasize authentic looks, durable steel construction, and reliable function. Practical on the range, striking in the safe — classic designs, built to last.

History

Popular Models

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