Description
To see original feature page for design (rather than instructions), click here.
Designed using advanced building techniques, this custom LEGO M1A1 Thompson submachine gun is realistic (life-size, at approx. 1:1 scale) and fun to build. It features a pull-back trigger, moving bolt / charging handle, working release for box magazine, fire-selector switches, and look-down iron sights. The sling swivels are functional; I’ve also included instructions and parts list code for a display stand and mountable Technic-based sling (optional). This WWII gun model is a neat display piece and looks/feels like an ultimate collector’s LEGO gun set. It’s the perfect creative project and conversation-starter for you and your family/friends! If you like my replica LEGO submachine gun, please support my work and purchase a set of instructions. Thank you so much!
How to make a LEGO gun: The building instructions are in PDF format for an easy-access building experience on every device.
The submachine gun model requires 1,361 LEGO pieces, not included, and it’s super easy to buy all the parts you need (if you don’t have them already); click here to download the parts lists if you’d like to shop the required pieces ahead of time. The instructions show you how to construct the model in dark bluish gray and reddish brown; you may also choose to mix the older ‘brown’ and ‘dark gray’ pieces (as pictured) for an added visual effect. When you buy these instructions, you’ll receive my easy-to-follow guide on how to automatically create a shopping list for everything you need with the provided XML code. You can also watch a 10min tutorial here where I explain the process step-by-step: it’s quite simple and less expensive to do yourself than buying a kit.
* The cost of LEGO parts for this gun model + display stand, when you order directly from BrickLink, is approximately $189 USD plus shipping. This is significantly cheaper than buying a similarly sized and prepackaged kit with all the pieces included: such a custom kit would likely be in the $450–575 range with the added labor, inventory, and other markups. Click here to learn more about the easy parts-buying process for Brick Replicas.
A UCS-style decal for the M1A1 Thompson is available for sale separately from Ultimate Collector Stickers here, and free instructions for the brick-built plaques are downloadable here.
Note: I am not responsible for any risks/damages related to buyer/user’s handling and display of constructed model, which resembles a real gun and should therefore be treated with care and caution. “LEGO” is a trademark of The LEGO Group, which I am not affiliated with or endorsed by: the same goes for Auto Ordnance, the M1A1 Thompson, and associated trademarks.
Harrison Bellchamber –
Another great build, all the features are perfect