MAC-10 vs Thompson Submachine Gun

1966–Present

1921–Present

~250,000 estimated (including U.S., Brazilian, and Asian licensed production)

~1,500,000 units (World War II peak production) and limited post‑war runs

254 mm (10.0 in) with stock folded; 330 mm (13.0 in) with stock extended

762 mm (30.0 in) with stock extended; 660 mm (26.0 in) with stock folded (M1A1)

127 mm (5.0 in) for 9 mm version; 127 mm (5.0 in) for .45 ACP version

254 mm (10.0 in) standard; 305 mm (12.0 in) for some export models

2.5 kg (5.5 lb) empty, .45 ACP version; 2.3 kg (5.1 lb) empty, 9 mm version

4.4 kg (9.7 lb) empty (M1); 3.9 kg (8.6 lb) empty (M1A1)

30‑round box magazine standard; 20‑round (compact) and 40‑round (drum) options available

20‑round box, 30‑round box, 50‑round drum, 100‑round drum (rare)

Straight‑blowback, open bolt, telescoping bolt with simple recoil spring; selective‑fire (semi‑auto and full‑auto)

Simple blow‑back, open‑bolt, selective‑fire; rate of fire 600–1,250 rpm depending on model

Single‑stage mechanical trigger with manual safety lever; full‑auto fire only when selector set to "auto"

Two‑stage trigger: semi‑automatic (first pull) and fully‑automatic (second pull) on early models; later models use a single‑stage full‑auto trigger with a selector switch

Fixed, low‑profile iron sights: simple blade front post and notch rear; optional aftermarket tritium night sights

Rotary drum rear sight with 50, 100, 200, 300 yard settings; hooded front post; optional adjustable rear sight on later police variants