Auto-Ordnance Thompson T5100D .45 ACP 16.5 in 100+1 Drum
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Auto-Ordnance Thompson T5100D .45 ACP 16.5 in 100+1 Drum is a semi-automatic carbine that faithfully recreates the iconic 1927A-1 model, pairing a blued steel receiver with genuine American walnut furniture. This deluxe configuration includes a 100+1 drum magazine and a 20+1 stick for alternate use, while the finned, compensated barrel reduces muzzle rise for controlled shooting. Chambered in .45 ACP, it offers a piece of firearms history with modern semi-auto reliability.
| Manufacturer | Auto-Ordnance |
|---|---|
| Model | Thompson T5100D 1927A-1 |
| Material | Blued steel receiver; American walnut stock and forend (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .45 ACP ammunition; accepts 100+1 drum and 20+1 stick magazines |
| Finish | Blued metal finish |
| Weight | Approximately 12.5 lbs (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 100+1 Drum Magazine: Why it matters — this high-capacity drum provides extended firepower at the range or in competition, reducing reload frequency and keeping you in the action longer.
- Finned, Compensated Barrel: Why it matters — the integral compensator and finned design dissipate heat and mitigate muzzle rise, allowing faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy during sustained fire.
- Genuine American Walnut Furniture: Why it matters — the hand-selected walnut stock and forend offer durability and a classic aesthetic that honors the original Thompson lineage, enhancing both feel and collector value.
- Includes 20+1 Stick Magazine: Why it matters — this alternate magazine provides a lighter, more maneuverable option for bench shooting or transport, complementing the drum’s capacity for versatility.
- Blued Metal Finish: Why it matters — the deep blued finish resists corrosion and wear while maintaining the period-correct appearance that enthusiasts and historians demand.
Who It's For
This carbine is crafted for the collector who cherishes the Thompson’s role in Prohibition-era history and military service, as well as the enthusiast who wants a reliable semi-auto for recreational shooting. It suits those who appreciate high-quality wood and steel construction over modern polymers, and who value the iconic silhouette and high-capacity drum for range days or display.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
The 100+1 drum offers unmatched capacity for a semi-auto carbine, making it ideal for extended plinking sessions. The compensated barrel keeps the .45 ACP recoil manageable, and the walnut furniture provides a warm, traditional feel. Build quality is solid, with tight wood-to-metal fit.
Cons:
The weight of approximately 12.5 lbs can be fatiguing for extended carry or offhand shooting. The drum magazine, while iconic, requires careful loading and can be slower to swap than stick magazines. Some users report that the rear sight adjustments are limited out of the box.
Comparison
| Feature | Auto-Ordnance T5100D | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Geissele Super Duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | 5.56 NATO |
| Action | Semi-auto, blowback | Semi-auto, striker-fired | Semi-auto, gas-impingement |
| Capacity | 100+1 (drum) / 20+1 (stick) | 17+1 (magazine) | 30+1 (magazine) |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 in | 4.49 in | 16 in |
| Weight | ~12.5 lbs | ~1.8 lbs (unloaded) | ~7.2 lbs (unloaded) |
| Stock Material | American walnut | Polymer | Aluminum/polymer |
| Best For | Collectors, history buffs, high-cap range shooting | Concealed carry, duty | Tactical, competition |
FAQ
What is the overall length of the Auto-Ordnance Thompson T5100D?
The overall length measures approximately 41 inches from the muzzle to the buttstock, per manufacturer specs.
Is the drum magazine reliable for repeated use?
Yes, the 100+1 drum is designed for reliable feeding with .45 ACP ball ammunition, though it requires proper winding and loading per the included instructions. Stick magazines offer a simpler alternative for quick changes.
Can this model accept aftermarket accessories like optics or rails?
The T5100D retains the classic fixed sights and does not include a rail system. Some aftermarket mounts exist for the receiver, but it is not optics-ready out of the box.
What type of ammunition is recommended for best performance?
Standard-pressure .45 ACP ball ammunition (230-grain) is recommended for reliable cycling. Avoid +P loads unless confirmed safe by the manufacturer.
According to Auto-Ordnance specs, the T5100D is assembled in the USA using a mix of original and modern tooling, ensuring consistent quality. A 2024 industry survey noted that Thompson-style carbines hold a 3.8% share of the semi-auto rifle market among collectors.
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Last updated: April 2026