So i got to run a few mags through an M1A1 Thompson. I am a sucker for WW2 stuff so I couldn't say no.
So why not do a quick review?
The controls are awkward and the grip is so thick you are better off using your support hand. The safety and fire is a different lever than the full auto or semi selector. I understand the reasoning, but i am not a fan.
The Rof is rather slow, around 600 rounds per minute, it's extremely easy to get off single shots. Open bolt .45acp, so the 'dip' of the bolt going forward is very noticeable. Trigger seemed ok. Once you dump almost 1lb of lead into a target the trigger kinda doesn't matter. We had some issues with this particular gun, seemed mostly related to the magazine we had.
The stock shape is not designed to help the shooter, on higher ROF Thompsons the gun feels like it's trying to do everything it can to get away from you, but the slower ROF of the M1A1 helps keep that in check, as does the weight. The handguard is fine, it does the job.
The Thompson is very cool, and the M1A1 is probably the best version of it, but i still don't see any situation where I'd rather have this over a Garand, Carbine, M3 or something like an MP40, however the M1A1 is extremely fun, and if i had the money I'd definitely own 5-7 of them
So why not do a quick review?
The controls are awkward and the grip is so thick you are better off using your support hand. The safety and fire is a different lever than the full auto or semi selector. I understand the reasoning, but i am not a fan.
The Rof is rather slow, around 600 rounds per minute, it's extremely easy to get off single shots. Open bolt .45acp, so the 'dip' of the bolt going forward is very noticeable. Trigger seemed ok. Once you dump almost 1lb of lead into a target the trigger kinda doesn't matter. We had some issues with this particular gun, seemed mostly related to the magazine we had.
The stock shape is not designed to help the shooter, on higher ROF Thompsons the gun feels like it's trying to do everything it can to get away from you, but the slower ROF of the M1A1 helps keep that in check, as does the weight. The handguard is fine, it does the job.
The Thompson is very cool, and the M1A1 is probably the best version of it, but i still don't see any situation where I'd rather have this over a Garand, Carbine, M3 or something like an MP40, however the M1A1 is extremely fun, and if i had the money I'd definitely own 5-7 of them
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