Auto-Ordnance Commemorative Rifle and Pistol Duo Honors the Army's 250th Anniversary

by
posted on June 14, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
LEDE 250Th Anniversary Commemorative Set

Auto-Ordnance, in partnership with the artisans at Altered Arsenal, have announced the release of two commemorative firearms in a series called "A Salute to Service," created to honor the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the Army on June 14, 1775. The collection features a custom-engraved 250th Anniversary Army Thompson Rifle and a matching M1911A1 Pistol, both serving as a powerful tribute to the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of American soldiers over two and a half centuries. Both firearms are chambered in the classic .45 ACP and share a distinctive and durable two-tone Cerakote finish, with an OD Green upper receiver/slide and a Coyote Tan lower frame. The controls on both the rifle and pistol are finished in a contrasting black oxide, creating a striking and unified appearance for the set.

The Commemorative 250th Anniversary Army Thompson Rifle

This special edition Thompson is built on a legacy of military service. The American Walnut furniture is extensively custom engraved with a visual narrative chronicling the evolution of the Army soldier, featuring figures from the Revolutionary War through modern times. A "250th Anniversary" banner is featured on both sides of the stock, while the horizontal fore grip is engraved with "U.S." surrounded by stars. The steel receiver and frame are also adorned with commemorative markings. The "ARMY" name is CNC engraved and Cerakoted Black on both the upper and lower receiver. The right side of the receiver features a "250 Anniversary Banner" finished in brilliant Cerakote FX Gold. In a uniquely distinguished touch, the top of the receiver showcases a design depicting the layout of the Army dress uniform, meticulously accented with Cerakote Black lines and Cerakote FX Gold buttons. One 30 round stick magazine is included.

The Commemorative Army M1911A1 Pistol

Based on the classic M1911A1 Government Issue profile, this commemorative pistol is rich with detailed engravings. The left side of the slide boldly features the "ARMY" name, while the right side is engraved with "United States" and a "250 Anniversary banner" painted in Cerakote FX Gold. Echoing the design of the Thompson, the top of the slide also features the CNC-engraved Army dress uniform layout with black and gold accents. A standout feature is the custom laser-engraved wood grips. The right grip panel depicts a colonial soldier, acknowledging the Army's origins, while the left grip panel showcases a modern-day soldier, representing the Army's continued service and evolution. One seven round magazine is included.

Together, the commemorative Thompson and M1911A1 are intended as a lasting homage to the 250-year legacy of unwavering service by our nation’s Army personnel. Visit auto-ordnance.com for more information.

Latest

Herman Dead Air Beauty Shot
Herman Dead Air Beauty Shot

How Can Hunters Travel Out of State With Suppressed Firearms?

Getting federal and state agencies out of the way of the citizens who wish to use suppressors to make their guns more polite to their ears and to their neighbors’ is an ongoing, complex and multifaceted effort. There is, however, progress being made thanks to the Trump administration.

A Shared Memory Between Life’s Chapters

Check out this memorable hunting story from member William Scott Aldridge.

Hardware Review: Browning BAR MK 4 Hunter

First, the Browning Automatic Rifle addressed in this article is not the renowned 1918 BAR of military fame. I’ve actually seen an American Rifleman editor hunt hogs with a reproduction 1918 BAR. While it was a spectacle to behold, it’s probably not the optimal choice for the deer woods, but hey, who am I to judge? The Browning BAR we’re talking about in this article is the iconic hunting rifle.

Choice Ammunition—Montana’s Handloaded Factory Ammunition.

Today, we have many more projectile options than we’ve ever had. However, there are still some combinations that aren’t readily available, and some of our older cartridges have become all but unobtainable. Enter a boutique ammunition shop from Montana, the brainchild of Mr. Jon Wemple: meet Choice Ammunition.

Improving Buckshot Performance

Buckshot’s downrange effectiveness varies greatly, from stellar to lackluster, depending on the shotgun/choke configuration and specifics of the load. Here is what you need to know to extract its greatness.

Last Minute Hunting Essentials

Looking for some last minute gear to take your hunting season to the next level? We have what you need. Check out our list of last minute hunting essentials for the season.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.