Tommy Gun Maker Sues Al Capone For Boozy Trademark Infringement

Saeilo Enterprises, Inc., current manufacturer of the old school Thompson submachine gun (left), often referred to as a “Tommy gun,” recently filed a lawsuit claiming trademark infringement against Chicago-based liquor company, Alphonse Capone Enterprises, Inc.  Capone Enterprises has no clear legal connection to the Chicago gangster of the 1920's, but is clearly attempting to profit from an association with the notorious Public Enemy Number One.

At issue is the fact that Capone Industries has been selling a new brand of vodka under the Tommy Guns name in a bottle that is intentionally shaped like a Tommy gun. 

Saeilo owns a federally registered trademark for TOMMY GUN in connection with actual firearms, and the trademark has been used constantly since 1920 in connection therewith (including use by the Chicago gangster, not the Chicago liquor company).

The gun maker is also the owner of a separate TOMMY GUN trademark that covers clothing. Saelio does not apparently own any federal trademark on the name for alcoholic beverages.


In contrast, Al Capone Enterprises owns a current federally registered trademark for TOMMY GUN for beer, wines and spirits.

The complaint, which was filed in federal court in Chicago in March 2013, alleges that Al Capone Industries does not have authorization to use the Tommy Gun trademarks on alcoholic beverages that carry a reproduction of the Tommy Gun name and distinctive shape. 

Additionally, Saeilo claims that Capone’s conduct not only violates federal trademark laws, but also Illinois state law and common law. Saeilo further brought claims under Illinois’ Trademark Registration and Protection Act, as well as the Illinois Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

As owner of the trade dress rights in the design of the Thompson submachine gun or “Tommy Gun,” Saeilo claimed that Capone’s unlawful use of the Tommy Gun trade dress was likely to cause “confusion or mistake and/or is likely to deceive consumers as to the affiliation, connection of association of [Capone] with Saeilo,” and of course, Saeilo seeks a permanent injunction and damages.

An interesting legal question arises as to whether and when phrases used to describe firearms can be legally trademarked by the gunmaker, or even by others, in connection with alcoholic beverages.

For example, the trademark of Colt Buntline Special .45 is owned by Colt's Patent Firearms Manufacturer. But Colt 45 in connection with clothing is owned by Pabst Brewing Company. It is unclear why Pabst does not own a federally registered trademark for Colt 45 in connection with its malt liquor beverages.