Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 “Bonnie & Clyde” .45 ACP 18″
About this product
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 “Bonnie & Clyde” .45 ACP 18″ is an engraved commemorative carbine that pays homage to the legendary outlaws and the firearm that defined an era. Chambered in .45 ACP, this semi-automatic rifle features an 18-inch finned barrel with a pinned Cutts compensator, a fixed walnut stock and foregrip with intricate engraving, and adjustable rear sights. It ships with both a 20-round stick magazine and a 50-round drum magazine, making it ready for range use and historical display. This is a piece of living history for the serious collector.
| Manufacturer | Auto-Ordnance (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Thompson 1927A-1 “Bonnie & Clyde” Deluxe |
| Material | Steel receiver, walnut stock and foregrip |
| Compatibility | .45 ACP ammunition, standard Thompson stick and drum magazines |
| Finish | Blued steel with engraved receiver and furniture |
| Weight | Approximately 13 lbs (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Engraved Walnut Stock & Foregrip — The fixed stock and foregrip feature period-correct engraving that mirrors the original Bonnie and Clyde-era firearms, giving collectors a museum-quality piece that tells a story.
- Pinned Cutts Compensator — This compensator reduces muzzle rise during rapid fire, allowing you to keep the sights on target for follow-up shots, which matters for both historical accuracy and practical shooting.
- Finned 18″ Barrel — The iconic finned barrel dissipates heat faster than a smooth barrel, maintaining accuracy during extended sessions at the range, and it’s a hallmark of the Thompson design that collectors recognize.
- 50-Round Drum Magazine — Included with purchase, this drum magazine is the centerpiece of the Thompson experience, offering authentic reloading and handling that connects you directly to the firearm’s Prohibition-era legacy.
- Adjustable Rear Sights — The rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation, giving you the ability to zero the rifle precisely for your chosen ammunition, which enhances accuracy at various distances.
Who It’s For
This carbine is built for the collector who values historical accuracy and wants a firearm that stands as a conversation piece. It also appeals to the enthusiast who appreciates the mechanical artistry of a full-size Thompson but prefers the semi-automatic format for legal ownership and range use. If you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of American outlaw history, this is your chance.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Authentic engraving and finish that closely match the original Bonnie and Clyde-era firearms, making it a standout in any collection.
- Pro: Includes both stick and drum magazines, saving you the cost and hassle of sourcing them separately.
- Con: At approximately 13 pounds unloaded, this is a heavy rifle that may fatigue shooters during long range sessions, but this weight also contributes to reduced recoil and historical accuracy.
Comparison
| Feature | Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 “Bonnie & Clyde” | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Geissele Super Duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 18″ | 4.5″ | 16″ |
| Weight | ~13 lbs | ~1.5 lbs | ~6.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 or 50 rounds | 17 rounds | 30 rounds |
| Historical Authenticity | High (engraved, finned barrel, drum) | Low (modern design) | Low (modern design) |
| Primary Use | Collecting, historical display, range | Competition, concealed carry | Duty, home defense |
The Thompson is a dedicated collector’s piece, while the Zev and Geissele are modern tactical firearms. Each serves a different purpose, but the Thompson alone offers the storied lineage and visual impact that history buffs demand.
FAQ
What ammunition does the Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 “Bonnie & Clyde” use?
It is chambered in .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) and will reliably fire all standard .45 ACP loads, including 230-grain ball ammunition commonly found at ranges.
Is the drum magazine included with the purchase?
Yes, the rifle ships with both a 20-round stick magazine and a 50-round drum magazine, allowing you to experience the iconic reloading process and capacity right out of the box.
Can I mount optics on this rifle?
The Thompson 1927A-1 features adjustable iron sights (rear windage/elevation) but does not have a Picatinny rail for optics. It is designed for traditional sighting, which suits its historical character.
Is this a fully automatic firearm?
No, the Auto-Ordnance Thompson 1927A-1 is a semi-automatic carbine, meaning it fires one round per trigger pull. It is legal for civilian ownership where allowed by law.
According to Auto-Ordnance specs, this model is built with the same quality standards as their standard 1927A-1 line, with added engraving and finishing for the Bonnie & Clyde edition. One verifiable fact: the Thompson submachine gun was used by the U.S. military from 1928 through the 1970s, with over 1.5 million units produced across all variants.
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Last updated: April 2026