Early M1 by AOC

[stingray656667]

Hello,

 

I've come across an AOC M1 kit that has the early style paddle selector switches instead of the later ones with the pins. Would this be original to an early AOC M1? The "full auto" wording follows one another on one line instead of being on top of one another as a Savage produced lower would be. The existence of the paddle selectors intrigues me as I haven't seen an M1 with these early style selectors and I'm wondering if they are correct for the piece. Any replies are most appreciated. Thank you.

 

stingray656667

[TD.]

I have never spent much time studying the M1 or M1A1 Thompson guns but I believe the earliest guns had the paddle type fire control levers, the 1928 magazine catch for a drum and a butt stock that did not have the reinforcing bolt. It should also have the L type rear sight.

[stingray656667]

Hello,

 

Thank you for the reply. The upper receiver is not with the piece as it is a parts kit so I don't have any idea what type of rear sight it would have had. What is the difference between a mag catch for a stick magazine and one for a drum? Can the difference be seen with the catch lever installed on the lower? If so, what should I look for to tell what type of catch is installed? The stock does not have the reinforcing bolt. I appreciate your time in replying and the information provided.

 

stingray656667

[TSMGguy]

The M1928A1 mag catch has a thick boss on it that fits into a domed slot on the drum. These catches were used on early M1s before the catch was redesigned without the boss. An early M1 would have the parts you list, plus a milled grip mount, bright bolt with hammer, and milled sling swivels.

[rpbcps]

In my collection I have a deactivated, (living in the EU it is the best we can have), Savage M1 and an Auto Ordnance M1A1 and both have pin selectors and safety, but both also have 1928 style magazine catches.

 

Stay safe

 

Richard

[mnshooter]

Hello,

 

Thank you for the reply. The upper receiver is not with the piece as it is a parts kit so I don't have any idea what type of rear sight it would have had. What is the difference between a mag catch for a stick magazine and one for a drum? Can the difference be seen with the catch lever installed on the lower? If so, what should I look for to tell what type of catch is installed? The stock does not have the reinforcing bolt. I appreciate your time in replying and the information provided.

 

stingray656667

You definitely will benefit from a copy of Frank Iannamico's American Thunder III.

[Adg105200]

Hello,

 

Thank you for the reply. The upper receiver is not with the piece as it is a parts kit so I don't have any idea what type of rear sight it would have had. What is the difference between a mag catch for a stick magazine and one for a drum? Can the difference be seen with the catch lever installed on the lower? If so, what should I look for to tell what type of catch is installed? The stock does not have the reinforcing bolt. I appreciate your time in replying and the information provided.

 

stingray656667

 

Here's a picture of 2 M1 trigger frames (both Savage):. One with a '28 and one with a M1/M1A1 style mag release.

 

 

 

Nice find on the trigger frame. Is there a serial number on it? Post a few pictures of your parts kit. What kind of shape is it in? I ask because it also could have been rebuilt at some point like my early Savage M1 trigger frame.

 

I think most earlier M1s had the 1928 style mag releases mainly because that's what surplus was available. The same with selector switches. The one thing you will learn about Thompson's is that there is no real correct or incorrect configuration.

 

Andrew