Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine Review

Deep Dive into the Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine

For enthusiasts of classic firearms, the Thompson submachine gun, and its semi-automatic rifle variants, holds a special place. These iconic weapons, often referred to as “Tommy Guns,” are as much a piece of history as they are functional firearms. Maintaining their authenticity and operational readiness often requires specific, period-correct accessories. This is where the Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine comes into play, offering a focused capacity for owners who value tradition and controlled feeding.

My journey to this particular magazine wasn’t born from a sudden whim, but from a practical necessity. While I appreciate the historical significance of the larger drum magazines, for consistent range use and general handling, a more manageable capacity is often preferred. The standard 20 or 30-round magazines, while effective, can sometimes be unwieldy, and for certain shooting disciplines or simply for ease of manipulation, a 10-round option presents a compelling case. I was looking for a solution that would allow for more comfortable shooting sessions without compromising the authentic look and feel of my Auto-Ordnance Thompson rifle.

Upon receiving the magazine, my initial impression was positive. It possesses a tangible heft, immediately suggesting robust construction. The steel construction feels solid, and the black finish appears to be a durable bluing or parkerizing. It’s a no-frills design, as one would expect from a component intended for such a classic firearm, focusing on function over any aesthetic embellishments. I had considered a few aftermarket options, but ultimately opted for a factory-branded part to ensure the best compatibility and adherence to original specifications. My first reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; it felt like a genuine piece of the Thompson legacy.

Real-World Testing: Putting Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine to the Test

My testing ground for this Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine was primarily the familiar confines of a supervised outdoor shooting range, specifically configured for rifle use. This environment allowed for controlled firing sequences and direct comparison with other magazine types. I also took it to my personal workshop for initial inspection and to confirm fitment before heading out.

The initial insertion into my Auto-Ordnance Thompson Model 1927 rifle was notably smooth. There was no excessive force required, nor was there any looseness. The magazine locked into place with a satisfying click, indicating a precise fit. Loading the 10 rounds of .45 ACP ammunition was straightforward, with the follower moving freely and without binding against the feed lips. Firing the first few magazines was uneventful, which, for a firearm accessory, is exactly what you hope for. Each round fed reliably, and the magazine dropped free cleanly when the release was activated. I experienced no feeding failures or malfunctions during this initial period.

Over the course of several range days and subsequent handling at home, the Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine has continued to perform admirably. I’ve subjected it to repeated loading and unloading cycles, and the internal spring retains its tension without any noticeable degradation. The steel body has held up well, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs from handling, but no dents or deformations that would affect function. Cleaning is as simple as any detachable magazine; a quick wipe down and a light application of lubricant on the follower and spring guide are sufficient. Compared to some older, unbranded magazines I’ve encountered for similar firearms, this Auto-Ordnance unit feels significantly more robust and less prone to developing feeding issues over time.

First Use Experience

The primary scenario for testing was at an outdoor shooting range with a designated rifle bay. This setting allowed for controlled firing and assessment of the magazine’s function within a typical Thompson rifle usage context. I also spent time at my workbench, ensuring the magazine seated correctly and inspecting its construction prior to live fire.

The magazine performed flawlessly in all weather conditions encountered, from dry, warm days to a light, intermittent drizzle. It showed no adverse effects from dust or grit that inevitably accumulates at a range. Its ease of use was immediately apparent; there was virtually no learning curve, and it integrated seamlessly with the firearm. My only minor surprise was how much lighter and more manageable the rifle felt with the 10-round capacity compared to the larger drum magazines.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and numerous range trips, the Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine has become my go-to for general shooting. It has reliably fed hundreds of rounds of various .45 ACP loads without a single hiccup. The steel construction shows no signs of cracking or significant wear, even after being accidentally dropped once on a gravel surface from about waist height.

Maintenance is minimal; a light cleaning after each shooting session with a bore snake and a mild solvent keeps it in top condition. I store it unloaded in a padded magazine pouch to prevent unnecessary wear on the feed lips. Compared to some of the older, unbranded magazines I’ve used for other firearms, this Thompson magazine offers superior durability and consistent feeding performance. It feels like a component built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine

Specifications

This Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine is constructed from steel, a material chosen for its inherent strength and durability, crucial for the rigors of firearm operation. It boasts a 10-round capacity, specifically designed for the .45 ACP caliber. The magazine is a stick type, meaning it is a single-column or staggered-column magazine that inserts vertically into the firearm’s magazine well.

The Auto Ordnance manufacturer designation clearly marks its lineage and likely adherence to original design principles. Its black finish provides a classic, understated aesthetic that complements the iconic Thompson firearm. The Gun Type is listed as a rifle, specifically intended for the Thompson Model 1927. This specification is critical, ensuring compatibility and proper feeding within the rifle’s action. This focused capacity is a significant differentiator from the larger, more common drum magazines.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any magazine is to reliably feed ammunition into the firearm’s chamber, and this Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine excels at this fundamental task. The consistent feeding of .45 ACP rounds without any jams or misfeeds is its strongest asset. The magazine’s design ensures the cartridges are presented to the bolt at the correct angle, which is paramount for proper cycling.

Its primary strength lies in its reliable feeding and durable construction. The 10-round capacity also contributes positively by making the rifle more balanced and easier to handle during extended shooting sessions. A potential weakness, though more a matter of user preference, is that the 10-round capacity means more frequent reloads compared to larger magazines. However, for its intended purpose of controlled feeding and historical accuracy, it meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine is deliberately utilitarian, reflecting the functional demands of its era. The steel construction gives it a satisfying heft, conveying a sense of robust engineering. The black finish is consistent and provides a non-reflective surface, which is practical for firearm accessories.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to fit perfectly within the Thompson rifle’s magazine well. There are no sharp edges or protrusions that would interfere with handling or insertion. The follower is smooth, and the spring provides consistent pressure throughout the magazine’s capacity. While it lacks any advanced ergonomic features, its simplicity is a strength, contributing to its reliability and ease of use. The precise fit ensures it doesn’t rattle or loosen during recoil, which is a common issue with less well-made magazines.

Durability & Maintenance

Built from solid steel, this magazine is engineered for longevity. Under normal use for its intended purpose as a rifle magazine, it is expected to last for many years, likely decades, with proper care. The steel body is resistant to impacts that would crack or deform lesser materials.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove powder residue and debris. A light lubrication of the follower and spring can ensure smooth operation. There are no complex mechanisms to disassemble or maintain beyond basic cleaning. A potential point of failure, common to all magazines, would be damage to the feed lips if dropped forcefully or mishandled, but the robust steel construction mitigates this risk considerably.

Accessories and Customization Options

This Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine is a standalone component and typically does not come with additional accessories. Its design is specific to the Auto-Ordnance Thompson platform, meaning customization options are generally limited to internal components like the spring and follower if they were to wear out over extreme usage.

It does not readily accept aftermarket modifications or accessories from other firearm platforms. However, its standard design means it functions as intended without needing any such additions. The 10-round capacity is a deliberate design choice, offering a specific feature set without requiring external enhancements.

Pros and Cons of Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine

Who Should Buy Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine?

This magazine is an excellent choice for owners of Auto-Ordnance Thompson rifles who prioritize reliability, durability, and historical authenticity. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who enjoy frequent range sessions and prefer a more manageable ammunition capacity for easier handling and shooting. Enthusiasts looking to maintain the classic look and feel of their Thompson firearm will find this magazine to be an indispensable component.

Those who primarily use their Thompson for historical reenactment or specific shooting disciplines where controlled capacity is beneficial will also appreciate this model. However, individuals who require higher ammunition capacity for self-defense or competitive shooting scenarios might want to consider larger-capacity magazines, if compatible and available. For optimal performance, ensuring it’s paired with a clean and well-maintained Thompson rifle is key.

Conclusion on Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine

The Auto Ordnance Thompson 10-Round .45 ACP Stick Magazine is a testament to enduring design principles. It delivers on its promise of reliable ammunition feeding, backed by a construction that speaks of longevity and quality. Its steel build and precise fitment make it a dependable accessory for any owner of an Auto-Ordnance Thompson rifle, particularly those who value its historical significance and controlled capacity.

Considering its performance and build quality, the price of this magazine, while potentially higher than some alternatives, is justified by its authenticity and unwavering reliability. I would unequivocally recommend this magazine to any owner of a compatible Auto-Ordnance Thompson firearm who seeks a durable, authentic, and functional magazine solution. If you are looking to equip your Thompson rifle with a magazine that performs as well as it looks and pays homage to its heritage, this is the one to get.