21 Thompson

[ronmann]

is it true that the 21 thompson has a rate of fire of 1000 rpm?I really like the look of the model that has no compensator.please forgive any ignorance as im new to admireing these works of art.

[DC Chris]

I don't own a '21 but it is true that the RPM is higher than a 1928. The primary difference is the weight of the actuator. For a Colt '21, the part is skinny and has less mass. The 1928 actuator actually had weight added to the bottom part (under the charging handle) The added weight is quite big and fits inside the bolt to slow the rate, along with some possible spring/buffer differences between the two. I was looking for a nice Colt actuator picture but came up empty... some dude was making replacements.

 

Here is a link to a picture of a 28 actuator. The weight added is the "oval" part under the top slide. 1921 actuators don't have that and some early ones are two piece.

 

1928 Actuator

 

The 1921 rate is approximately 1000 rounds per minute while 1928's are about 750rpm. There is always some debate to speed, and internal variables, ammo and minor changes can affect the rate either way.

 

Don't let the price get you down - you can make a really cool '21 semi auto for a fraction of the price that shoots well - and you can remove the comp so it fits your desired look as well.

[21 smoker]

More like 800-900rpm with the proper 21 internals,...600+ with 28 guts.. http://www.machinegunbooks.com/forums/invboard1_1_2/upload/html/emoticons/wink.gif