[Eppy Thatcher]

Hello,

I've always wanted a Thompson SMG, but can't afford the $8-10K for a real one. I need a gunsmith who can cut the barrel on a Auto Ordnance 1927 Deluxe from 16" to 10". Don't worry, it will be registered with the ATF as a SBR. I am looking for recommendations. Thanks in advance for your help.

Steve

[Wildalaska]

Don't worry, it will be registered with the ATF as a SBR


Hi I think the policy of most reputable gunsmiths would be for you to bring in evidence of registration when you request that the barrel be cut. No registration, no cut.

WildhmmmAlaska

[Jim K]

I replied on another forum, but will do so here on one point. Check with BATF, because I think the gunsmith doing the work will have to have a $1000 NFA manufacturers license, and darned few do.

Jim

[dfariswheel]

Also from the other forum:

"You can't cut a Thompson barrel off. Doesn't work.

The end of the Thompson barrel is expanded to fit either the front sight or a Cutts compensator. When the barrel is cut off, the new muzzle is too small for the press- on sight, and also too small to be threaded for the compensator.

Whether by intent or by accident, the 16" barrel's taper is such that when it's cut off, the muzzle is too small, and no sight or compensator can be fitted.

The only viable option is to re-barrel with a SMG 10" barrel."

[Johnny Guest]

It wouldn't suprise me at all if the recently-produced semi auto frames have a different thread and so would not accept the military barrels. IF they are compatible, this would probably be the least expensive route.

Another way, AFTER obtaining the necessary ATF approval to make an SBR - - -
Gunsmith removes barrel from receiver. Cuts the "knob" with front sight, and compensator if any, on it off the muzzle end. Cuts barrel to proper length. Drills out knob to match the slightly turned-down end on the barrel. Fit knob/sight assembly over barrel end. Silver solder or pin in place. Recrown and re-finish. When properly done, it takes close examination to see the joint.

Best,
Johnny

[LostOneToo]

You can buy a factory-made 10" barrel for Thompson's from Auto Ordinance for $190. It's listed on their web page under products. I was thinking of doing the same thing myself.

[Gun Plumber]

Contact Bob Ford at "Rocky Mountain Arms" in Longmont, Colorado. HE is a class 10 manufacturer of full auto stuff and works with ATF ALL THE TIME. If memory serves me correctly (at 50 I don't remember as well as I used to) SBR registration is fairly cheap (less than $100). Just be prepared to WAIT and WAIT and WAIT for ATF to process paperwork.

And as far as a front sight goes, any GOOD smith should be able to manufacture you one to correct specs, if they have gun in hand.

Hope it helps. Website is:

www.bearcoat.com