Developed in 1942, the M1A1 is the classic Thompson SMG retooled for faster wartime production. While a number of bells and whistles were deleted for the sake of expediency, the M1A1 retained the Thompson's rock-solid machined steel construction, and was popular with Allied soldiers. While the M3 and M3A1 Grease Gun was intended to displace the Thompson as America's main-line SMG, the M1A1 was the most widely used American sub-machine gun of World War II, and would not be fully out of U.S. service until after Korea and Vietnam. Fixed sights, with the safety and selector switches on the left side of the trigger group, Auto-Ordnance two-line address on the right side of the receiver, Thompson "bullet" logo on top and the three-line military nomenclature on the left, along with "JA" and "GEC" inspector marks and "RIA" and "FK" refurbish stamps. Fitted with a straight forearm, finger grooved pistol grip and a buttstock with a flat steel buttplate. Included with the Thompson is a leather reinforced green canvas carrying case and the book "Thompson Submachine Guns" from U.S. Combat Bookshelf.

Very fine as deactivated, with 95% of the original parkerized finish, showing some covered pitting on the receiver and trigger group, heavy spotting on the right side, and scattered handling marks. Some flecks of white paint are present on the left side of the barrel, forearm and receiver, concentrated towards the muzzle. Wood is very good, with some mild dings and scuffs. Mechanically excellent. The arm has been de-activated by means of a plug welded into the breech, roughly 1/2 inch thick and of unknown composition, and the front of the magazine guide has been hand-marked "CMG". No other welds, cuts or torch marks are externally visible. The case is fair, with the leather knob cover detached but included. NOTE: This item is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives as a Deactivated War Trophy (DEWAT). It is the sole obligation of the bidder to understand and comply with all laws and restrictions which apply in their place of residence. No assurances or guarantees are offered regarding the feasibility, expense, or safety of restoring this M1A1 to firing condition.