The Thompson submachine gun, a legendary firearm iconic for its role in American history, has seen numerous iterations throughout its lifespan. While the original design was revolutionary, many issues have plagued various reproductions, especially those manufactured by Auto Ordnance. Understanding these problems is crucial for potential buyers and owners. This guide delves into common Auto Ordnance Thompson problems, offering insights into their causes and potential solutions.
Common Issues with Auto Ordnance Thompson Submachine Guns
Auto Ordnance, despite its historical association with the Thompson, has faced criticism regarding the quality and reliability of its modern reproductions. Several recurring problems are frequently reported by owners:
1. Feeding Problems: Jams and Malfunctions
One of the most prevalent complaints centers around feeding issues. These can manifest in various ways, including:
- Failure to feed: The gun fails to chamber a new round from the magazine.
- Double feeds: Two rounds attempt to enter the chamber simultaneously.
- Stovepipes: A round gets stuck above the chamber.
- Magazine related issues: Poor magazine construction leading to inconsistent feeding.
Causes: These problems often stem from:
- Loose tolerances: Inconsistent manufacturing tolerances can lead to parts not aligning correctly, hindering smooth feeding.
- Poor quality parts: Inferior materials used in the manufacturing process can lead to wear and tear, resulting in malfunctions.
- Improper magazine insertion: Incorrect magazine seating can contribute to feeding problems.
- Ammunition type: Certain types of ammunition may not feed reliably through the firearm due to variations in case dimensions or bullet shape.
2. Reliability and Function Issues
Beyond feeding problems, owners have reported broader reliability issues including:
- Frequent stoppages: The gun stops functioning repeatedly during firing.
- Bolt issues: Problems with bolt cycling and locking.
- Extractor malfunctions: The extractor fails to reliably remove spent casings.
Causes: These broader reliability problems are often interconnected with the issues described above and can also be attributed to:
- Poor heat treatment of parts: Improper heat treatment can weaken components, causing them to fail under stress.
- Improper lubrication: Lack of proper lubrication or using the wrong type of lubricant can exacerbate existing issues.
- Wear and tear: The cumulative effect of firing can lead to wear on crucial parts, resulting in malfunctions.
3. Accuracy Concerns
While not a universal problem, some owners have reported accuracy issues with their Auto Ordnance Thompson submachine guns. This is often tied to:
- Loose barrel fit: A loosely fitting barrel can negatively impact accuracy and precision.
- Sights alignment: Improperly aligned sights can contribute to poor accuracy.
- Manufacturing inconsistencies: Variations in manufacturing can impact the overall consistency of the firearm's accuracy.
Addressing and Mitigating Auto Ordnance Thompson Problems
Addressing these issues often requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Thorough cleaning and lubrication: Regular cleaning and proper lubrication are essential for maintaining firearm reliability.
- Careful selection of ammunition: Using high-quality, reliable ammunition is critical for consistent performance.
- Professional inspection and repair: For persistent problems, seeking professional inspection and repair by a qualified gunsmith is strongly recommended.
- Magazine upgrades or replacements: Upgrading to higher quality magazines can significantly improve feeding reliability.
- Part replacements: Replacing worn or damaged parts with genuine or high-quality aftermarket components can restore function and reliability.
Conclusion
While the Auto Ordnance Thompson represents a piece of history, its inherent problems highlight the importance of thorough research and due diligence before purchasing. Potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues and carefully assess the firearm's condition before committing to a purchase. Remember, responsible ownership involves regular maintenance and potentially addressing the aforementioned problems proactively. Addressing these issues properly can significantly improve the performance and reliability of your Auto Ordnance Thompson. This information is intended for educational purposes only; always prioritize safety and consult with experienced firearms professionals when handling weapons.
