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AN INTERESTING LOOK AT MODEL OF 1927A1, SERIAL NUMBER 153

It is always an adventure when it comes to examining firearms made by Auto-Ordnance, West Hurley. Recently, an

early Model of 1927A1, serial number 153, was brought to my attention. The gun was sent to me for some minor

gunsmithing work.

Upon closer examination the fol-

lowing was observed. First, since

the serial number was so low in

number, the receiver has the two

hole arrangement in the actuator

slot (see Vol 2 TATA newsletter).

The forward smaller hole is used

for an actuator hold open device.

Remember the semiautomatics

fire from a closed bolt. Yet the

bolt must be held open to insert

a drum magazine.

Second, the factory serial num-

ber was so poorly stamped that

it was difficult to tell if the serial

number was 158 or 153.

Upon removing the trigger frame

from the receiver it was a nice

surprise to see the factory had

serial numbered the inside of the

frame. The serial number here

was clearly number 153.

Looking at the inside of the trig-

ger frame of serial number 153

you will notice that there is no

magazine trip. The frame was

never machined or designed for

this feature. A solid removable

metal insert is installed in the

magazine well to prevent the

followers trip from rising to the

top of the magazine.

(Above) Top trigger frame is a later Model 1927A1 with the lower

frame being serial number 153. Note how s/n 153 has no provision for

a magazine trip. The frame was never designed or machined to incor-

porate this feature. A removable steel insert in 153's magazine slot

prevents the magazine follower from rising to the top of the maga-

zine.

(Above) Comparison of the rear end of the trigger frames. Serial number

153 is the lower frame and has the serial number clearly visible. Notice

the changes to the manufacture of the frames.