A friend is selling an Thompson Auto Ordnance 1911 clone. I believe it is a 5" barrel. I don't know much about pistols, so what are everyones opinions on these. It looks to be in like new condition.

I am getting this dirt cheap.

What is dirt cheap? 1911's go anywhere from $200 something to WAY OVER $1,000 dollars. From my personal experience with The Thompson 1911 theyre worth closer to the $200 side.

Around $50, And it isn't hot

For $50, if you're sure it isn't hot, I would definitely take it.  Just don't badmouth 1911-pattern pistols as "unreliable" and "jam-o-matic" when problems occur.  You generally do get what you pay for, especially on the low end.

i have a thompson 1911-a bulldog . you didn't say what cal.  if its a .45cal jump on it , if its a 10mm like mine is,better look it over really close to check for cracked or broken parts on the slide and bushing as this round is notorious for busting up even the best pistols.  for a 485.00 gun(new) i would wonder why the 50.00 price tag....   just a thought..

My friend is an LEO here, so I'm real sure it's legal. (well pretty sure) :) I'm sure the reason for low price is because he owes me alot of favors. It is a 45 cal.

The street value on an Auto-Ordnance is probably about $200-$250. The market is full of cast frame/slide imports right now (RIA & CD), and the Auto-Ordnance is plain jane and does not have the greatest reputation. Kahr, the new owner, is reportably improving quality, but the reputation is pretty well trashed among 1911 folks. On the other hand, $50 is a give-away price. Unless the frame or slide appears seriously damaged, I'd buy it and turn it into a house or truck gun.

Not trying to insult any satisfied owners, but the 1911 market has not exactly embraced this particular model.