MIL Thunder 5
The MIL, Inc. Thunder 5 is a double-action revolver chambered to fire both the .410-bore shotshell cartridge and the .45 Colt revolver cartridge.
| MIL Thunder 5 | |
|---|---|
 A Thunder 5 (right) next to a COP 357 Derringer | |
| Type | Revolver |
| Place of origin | United States |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | MIL, Inc. (Munitions International Laboratory, Inc.) |
| Produced | 1992—1998 |
| Variants | California-approved model |
| Specifications | |
| Mass | 48 Ounces |
| Length | 9" |
| Barrel length | 2" |
| Cartridge |
|
| Action | Double-action |
| Feed system | Five round cylinder |
| Sights | Fixed sights |
Description
The Thunder 5 is a large revolver, nine inches in overall length weighing 48 ounces, despite having only a two inch snubnose barrel. The Thunder 5 is chambered for 3-inch-long (76 mm) .410 shotgun shells and .45 Colt cartridges. As the barrel is rifled, the Thunder 5 is not considered a short-barrelled shotgun under United States federal law, but is restricted under California statutes. In 1994 a variant was produced in .45/70 Government that is legal in California.
It was fitted with Pachmayr decelerator grips and was available in either matte or bright stainless steel finish with fixed sights. Unusual for a double-action revolver, the Thunder 5 features a manual safety lever.[1] Sub-caliber sleeve inserts in 9mm Parabellum, .38 Special/.357 Magnum and .38 Super were produced and available until 1998.
It did appear in a few contemporary movies such as RoboCop 3 (1993), Black Dog (1998), and Three Kings (1999); but otherwise generated little interest and was discontinued in 1999. After it was discontinued, the Thunder 5 became a collector's item.[2] In recent years the concept of the .410/.45 hybrid revolver has been revived by Taurus and Smith & Wesson.