Thompson Semi Question

[FALaholic]

I was interested in getting the barrel chopped to the vintage 10.5 in, but need to stay legal. Without wading through a sea of red tape who do I need to contact, or does anyone know exctly what I need to do to proceed with this project?

 

[Kaylee]

um... a hacksaw and friends that can keep a secret?

 

[zouave]

You could cut the barrel down to 10.5" and then permanently attach a 6" muzzle break, perhaps a custom extra long "Cutts compensator"!

It can't be done without "wading through a sea of red tape" IMHO.

 

[PreserveFreedom]

Federally, you should just have to fill out a form, get local law enforcement to sign it, and pay a $200 fee. It would be classified as a "short barreled rifle". Be sure to check your state and local laws though. Believe it or not, there are states that allow full auto, but have a ban on short barreled rifles and shotguns.

 

[James K]

Assuming you want to be legal and not depend on close-mouthed friends, PreserveFreedom is correct. You need to fill out a Form 1 for permission to make a short-barrel rifle. Go to www.atf.treas.gov for further info.

Jim

 

[Dfariswheel]

Chopping a Thompson semi-auto barrel doesn't work out properly.
The barrel has an enlarged end that accepts the muzzle break, or front sight. The taper of the long barrels won't allow fitting either.

However, original Thompson SMG barrels can be screwed on the semi receiver. Just remove the original, and buy a SMG barrel. Then you can restore it to original condition.
I've done this job, so if you want advise, let me know.

 

[FALaholic]

Hey Dfariswheel,
If you would please contact me rommel@rfci.net I would be very grateful for any advice you can offer on the subject.
Thanks!

 

[JimFromFL]

I think it would be worth it to pay the $200 fee and place an original barrel on it. It would sure look sharp.

 

[Rob01]

My friend did that with an AR. He paid the $200, got the passport photos and fingerprints and 3 months later he got the stamp in the mail from the ATF. Not a hard process just a little long.
Another thing that most people don't know is that after you get that and have the barrel shortened you have to mark the rifle with your name and address as would any manufacturer. It has to be engraved in the receiver somewhere. My friend used a dremel and put it under the pistol grip so it wouldn't be unsightly. Again not a problem.

 

[FALaholic]

Thanks Rob...thats reassuring. Guess Ill be waitng a little while.