First Thoughts on the Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is more than just an accessory; it’s a statement. This drum mag promises to unlock the full potential of the iconic Thompson submachine gun. It evokes images of the roaring twenties and the battles of World War II. Manufactured to closely resemble the original specifications, it is a nod to history with modern production standards.
My quest for this drum began with a desire to enhance the functionality and the aesthetic appeal of my 1927A1 Thompson. Standard stick magazines are perfectly functional. The drum’s intimidating profile and increased capacity offered something beyond the norm. After comparing several aftermarket options, the OEM Origin and promise of authenticity of this model were the deciding factors. This drum was chosen due to the user reports of reliability and build quality that were lacking in cheaper, imported imitations.
Upon unboxing, the Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin immediately impressed me. The weight alone speaks volumes about the quality of materials used. It’s heavy, solid steel, finished in a deep, even black. Initial inspection reveals excellent build quality, with tight seams and a smooth winding mechanism. The drum came heavily oiled, a sign of care taken to prevent corrosion during storage and shipping. This added to the overall impression of a premium product. The included “3rd hand” installation tool was a welcome surprise. It eliminated any potential struggles with the drum’s fitment, often cited with aftermarket options. Excitement was the overwhelming emotion as the package was opened. This accessory promised to transform the Thompson into an even more formidable and enjoyable firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
The first range trip with the Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin was at an outdoor range in moderate weather. Temperatures hovered around 65 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. The drum was tested with standard 230-grain FMJ .45 ACP ammunition. This test provided a baseline for reliability.
Loading the drum was straightforward, following the instructions in the included Thompson manual. The “3rd hand” installation tool proved essential, facilitating smooth and secure attachment to the Thompson. Initial rounds cycled flawlessly. The Thompson felt more balanced with the added weight of the drum. By the third magazine, a minor jam occurred, with a round failing to fully chamber. A quick tap on the charging handle resolved the issue. Subsequent magazines experienced similar occasional hiccups, a reminder of the drum’s inherent complexity compared to stick magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin has proven to be largely reliable but not without its quirks. The drum has seen approximately 500 rounds, experiencing occasional jams, roughly one every three to four magazines. These malfunctions seem more frequent when the drum is not fully loaded.
Durability is exceptional; the drum shows minimal wear, the finish remaining intact despite regular handling and use. Cleaning is somewhat more involved than stick magazines, requiring disassembly and careful cleaning of the internal spring and follower mechanism. The drum needs re-oiling after cleaning. Compared to standard stick magazines, the Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin offers increased capacity but sacrifices absolute reliability. Stick magazines are still more reliable. The sheer fun factor and intimidating appearance of the drum more than compensate for its occasional foibles.
Breaking Down the Features of Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
Specifications
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin boasts several key specifications:
- Caliber: .45 ACP. This is the standard caliber for the Thompson submachine gun, ensuring compatibility.
- Capacity: 50 Rounds. This significantly increases the firepower compared to standard 20 or 30-round stick magazines.
- Finish: Black. The black finish provides a classic, tactical look that complements the Thompson’s design.
- Origin: OEM. The drum is manufactured to original equipment manufacturer specifications, ensuring authenticity and quality.
- Diameter: Approximately 6 3/4 inches. This size provides substantial capacity. This may affect handling and storage.
These specifications translate to a product designed for historical accuracy and enhanced firepower. The .45 ACP caliber ensures compatibility with readily available ammunition. The 50-round capacity offers a significant advantage in scenarios where sustained fire is desired. The OEM Origin guarantees that the drum meets the standards expected of original Thompson accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin performs its primary function of feeding ammunition effectively. However, reliability is not flawless. The drum experiences occasional jams. The enhanced firepower and classic aesthetic more than make up for this drawback.
Strengths include increased capacity and historical authenticity. Weaknesses center around potential reliability issues and more complex maintenance. The drum meets expectations for capacity and aesthetics but falls short of the rock-solid reliability of stick magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive, with heavy gauge steel and a durable black finish. The weight is substantial, noticeably impacting the Thompson’s overall balance, but some might find it more controllable. The drum fits securely onto the Thompson receiver with minimal wobble when properly installed using the included “3rd hand.”
User-friendliness is acceptable, though a slight learning curve exists for loading and installation. The included manual is necessary for first-time users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is built to last. The steel construction suggests a long lifespan. However, the internal mechanism requires regular cleaning and lubrication to ensure proper function.
Maintenance is more involved than stick magazines, requiring disassembly and careful reassembly. With proper care, the drum should provide years of reliable service (occasional jams aside).
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin includes the “3rd hand” installation tool and a Thompson manual. These are the only included accessories. No further customization options are available for the drum itself.
The drum is compatible with any Thompson submachine gun or semi-automatic variant designed to accept drum magazines. This provides a degree of interchangeability.
Pros and Cons of Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
Pros
- Substantially increased capacity compared to stick magazines (50 rounds vs. 20 or 30).
- Authentic OEM Origin design faithfully replicates the original Thompson drum magazines.
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity.
- The intimidating appearance enhances the Thompson’s aesthetic appeal.
- Includes a “3rd hand” installation tool, simplifying the attachment process.
Cons
- Occasional reliability issues (jams) may occur.
- Maintenance is more complex than stick magazines, requiring disassembly and careful cleaning.
- The added weight can affect the Thompson’s balance.
Who Should Buy Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin?
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is perfect for Thompson enthusiasts, collectors, and recreational shooters. They are especially those who prioritize historical accuracy and increased firepower over absolute reliability. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate the iconic aesthetic of the Thompson submachine gun.
Those seeking flawless reliability or who are uncomfortable with more complex maintenance should skip this product. Those who prioritize lightweight maneuverability should also consider stick magazines instead.
Must-have accessories include high-quality .45 ACP ammunition and gun cleaning supplies. Additional stick magazines are recommended as a backup for reliability.
Conclusion on Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin
The Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin is a worthwhile addition to any Thompson owner’s collection. Despite occasional reliability issues, its increased capacity, authentic design, and robust construction make it a compelling accessory.
The price of $274.99 is justified given the quality of materials and the historical significance. While not perfect, the Thompson 50 Round Black Drum For 45 ACP – 45 ACP Caliber, 50 Rounds, Black, OEM Origin delivers a unique and enjoyable shooting experience.
I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking to enhance their Thompson with a touch of history and a boost in firepower. Unleash the full potential of your Tommy Gun and experience the roar of the 50-round drum!
