How practical is a Thompson Sub Machine Gun, or is it just a collector's dream?

 In more ways then none, the Thompson sub machine gun is one of the most recognizable weapons in firearm history. The Thompson sub-machine gun was also known informally as the "Tommy Gun", "Annihilator", "Chicago Typewriter", "Chicago Piano", "Chicago Style", "Chicago Organ Grinder", "Trench Broom", "Trench Sweeper", "The Chopper", and simply "The Thompson". WW1 didn't get a chance to use them, but WWII did during it's trench warfare. When the U.S. government couldn't recognize it's potential early on, it was adapted by the popular criminals of the 1930's. For the
cost of $200 each (equivalent of about $3,500 today) you could purchase this gun at your local hardware store. Here's a little background on the creator of this weapon. 

John Taliaferro Thompson was born on December 31, 1860. He managed the Remington Arms Company after he left the military. Before leaving the Army he achieved the rank of Brigadier General. He began working on the gun in 1919 following World War 1. There is said that he started working on early forms as early as 1917. Thompson later established Auto Ordnance where he manufactured his creation. He is one of the elite firearm inventors, and you all should take a little time to do some additional reading on him. You can also watch the youtube documentary about the Thompson under the Tales of the Gun Series.   

To me this firearm is a collector's gem. It's just one of those cool guns that was designed to work. So what it's 20 pounds and featured an open bolt. It was small and compact compared to other firearms available at the time. One of "those guns" that appeals to people who can shoot guns well. I like my guns to have a background. Some sort of foundation that's earth shattering once you dig deeper. The one's that live throughout the decades. Our time is consumed with gadgets that can last a couple of years. While in the world of weapons, our gadgets can last 100's. So what's the tale of this amazing gun? 

 John created this weapon and the orders didn't come in. The United States government did not see the need for such a rifle. One high ranking official stated that the gun used too much ammunition. The Thompson did not see any use in World War 1. John needed to sell guns and so he sought ways. It eventually got into the hands of the  gangster of the time.  The weapon is infamously known for the part it played in the Valentine's Day Massacre.  A rivalry between Al Capone and George "Bugs" Moran developed into the slaughter of 7 men. The police on the scene thought there were several shooters. To their dismay only two Thompson's were used. 

That is what the gun means to the common folks. When two or more well versed in gunversation speak, we discuss it's use in WW2. How it wasn't accepted by the military until 1938. Our military discontinued it's issuse in 1971. Til this day other countries still use the weapon. 

Auto Ordnance is still pumping out firearms. By my research online, there are plenty available on aftermarket sites like gunsamerica. I just checked budsgunshop and they have this nice package available. As a disclaimer, I hope you have deep pockets if you expect to snatch one of these babies up. They range from a price of $1,200-$3,000 dollars. If you do not have a Class 3 license, don't expect to buy the short barreled version. That's the one known to be carried in pictures with early mobster. Today's standard version comes with a 19" barrel. I couldn't honestly care any how. It's the gunversation starter hanging over the mantle. The gun you carry in arm as your being introduced to your daughter's prom date.