STEEEERRRRLLLLINNNGGGGG!!!!!!

[drw]

What a gun! So smooth and controllable, I was doing singles, doubles and triples at will... Yep, I got the call and was shooting it about an hour later! No mag loader for this one, the first and last rounds insert by hand easily. My Uzi is smooth but climbs quite easily, the Sterling holds steady and fed a variety ammo including hollowpoints, without hesitation. My recommendation?
Get One While They Are Available! I don't think there will be any "used" guns available! I have seen adds for this firearm at $5900 and it is the best value out there IMO.

[cookie]

Did you document (with photos) the build?

[stymie]

That's a sweet weapon ya got there...

drw

I've got a powerful hankerin' for an Andrewski Sterling tube gun.

...think I'm gonna go4it!
:)

[RoverDave]

Congrats drw. They are a cool looking gun. Do you have the original metal folding stock on it? How comfortable is that to shoot?

[az paul]

Congrats, DRW!!

I've been looking at that Recon Ordnance ad for the Sterlings and am giving it serious thought. I'd like to go for one more C3 while we still can. Any other thoughts about it?

az paul

[drw]

Sorry, I didn't think to photograph the build, that movie runs well only in my head. It is original and while I had concerns about the stock when it was in the parts kit, the stock is more rugged than it appears when extended and is ingenius as a forarm when folded. I shot approx 200 rnd thru it yesterday, initially using the stock extended, the lockup and feel of the stock is solid with a nicely radiused place to rest your cheek or jaw. One magazine was fired full-auto with the stock folded and the gun supported with two hands outstretched like firing a handgun,,, I was so pleased with its controllability that the last magazine was fired one-handed! This thing points naturally for me and the sights weren't used much. The grip angle is very close to that of a Ruger MK II, so if you point one of those easily you will know what I mean. The trigger is polished on the finger side and nicely radiused to get on and off the trigger quickly. The selector is a nice wide paddle that lives right at the end of my thumb, tho I do have to shift my grip to select "safe from the auto" position. The brass ejected neatly about 4-5 feet to my right. This is important when you are picking your brass up, out of the snow. The British did a wonderful thing when they replaced this gun, making all those kits available,,,, now I am left to wonder what I'm missing if the Sterlings replacement is so much better! Ishould add that a bayonet would finish this gun nicely and I would appreciate any leads for the No 5 Jungle Carbine bayonet!

[L34A1]

Nice, you will love it. Here is what I use. I have the name of a guy that sells the bayonet and some other trinkets.

http://www.bdlltd.com/

[L34A1]

I just finished putting this one together.

[drw]

Thanks for the info TFA, I could not access the link you provided this morning but will try later. Did you assemble the suppressed gun and can I get a copy of the blueprint? I may be able to get another registered tube!
Also, for some reason the second photo you posted will not load, anyone else having same problem?

[Gun Shot]

I am, I can only see the very top of the photo. Cool pics guys.

[L34A1]

Originally posted by drw
Thanks for the info TFA, I could not access the link you provided this morning but will try later. Did you assemble the suppressed gun and can I get a copy of the blueprint? I may be able to get another registered tube!
Also, for some reason the second photo you posted will not load, anyone else having same problem?

If you can not access the link email me and I'll send it again. The second picture did not load, that was my mistake. The blueprints took me long hours of research and duplicating of factory Mk5 guns. It is built on a conversion not a parts gun. The suppressor is an updated baffle system made by SRT Doug Melton. Most of the info was obtained from "The Guns of Dagenham" , the bible for the Sterling Marks. There are absolutly no transferable or predealer Sterling Mk5's available, so you see, it is a rare gun to own for an individual or a dealer for that matter.

[Vegas SMG]

Now I'm getting excited! I received my IMA parts kit and mags a couple of weeks ago and used a friend's Sterling at the monthly match yesterday. The mags have very little of the painted finish remaining but worked perfectly. The guns are such a joy to shoot! Singles are effortless and the bolt weighs little compaired to the UZI and makes for a gun that's easy to keep on target.

I must mention that this gun was not sighted in and shot high and a little to the left so I had to compensate. The new owner didn't have a clue in regards to adjusting the sights, but a quick glance suggested that the windage would be adjusted with a tap left or right on the front sight? (It appears to be dovetailed in.) The evelation looks like it's adjusted via the front post by screwing it up or down much like an UZI after unscrewing the retention screw. Is this correct?

My Andrewsky built gun should transfer on a F3 to my dealer this week and then the wait will begin once more.

[Fr8 Dawg]

Originally posted by az paul
Congrats, DRW!!

I've been looking at that Recon Ordnance ad for the Sterlings and am giving it serious thought. I'd like to go for one more C3 while we still can. Any other thoughts about it?

az paul Jerry Prasser has been handling the few transfers of mine that I needed done. He's professional, knowlegeable, and a real nice guy!

While picking up a transfer at his place of business once, I held one of those sterlings. Nice looking piece. Didn't get a chance to fire it, but I'm sure it worked just great.

Jerry's the kind of guy that wouldn't sell you junk, and if there was a problem, I think he would do anything within reason to try to right the situation.

[Vegas SMG]

Just received six new wrapped in grease paper Sterling mags from Ohio Ord. yesterday and I couldn't be happier with them. The cost when I ordered by phone was one hundred dollars for 3 mags.. 20 dollars less than the advertised price on their web site.

I also ordered 6 mags from DSA this morning for ten bucks each. These are not listed on their site but are advertised in Shotgun News. I'll post here on their condition when I receive them in a week or so.

As far as Jerry Prasser and Recon Ord. goes, I've bought from him before and wouldn't hesitate to do business with him again. Super guy! If I understand correctly, he bought half of the 100+ registered DLO tubes and parts kits that JLM sold as a package last year. The Texas dealer I bought mine from purchased the other half. Both of these individuals are having Stan Andrewski build the guns for them. His price is identical to Jerry Prasser but I did get a "brother-in-law" deal so it was an absolute no brainer.

[akkid]

Does IMA still have decent quality kits? I thought the new DM guns were really cut up.

[Vegas SMG]

I haven't cleaned the grease off everything and probably won't unless or until I need a part to keep my gun running but, everything looks very good. The bore is nice and bright, the bolt face is beautiful, and other than the finish, I'm very pleased with the IMA kit.

[Paul556]

I just got 10 mags from DSA. They are all well used. The important thing is that they looked functional. The feed lips all looked strait. I don't have a Sterling, so I can't say how they work. I have an adaptor for my M16 that takes Stem mags and it looks like it will take the Sterling mags with a minor modification.

[stymie]

BUT...

They will be trickling in over the next few months...
@ $6.9K/ weapon!

He who hesitates... LOSES!

OK... so I signed up on the waiting list & it will be a double transfer; had to round out the collection somehow... & this puppy is just the ticket.

I'd rather have one of these than an HK MP5 series, but that's just me.

;)

Jerry Prasser is definitely one of the best in the business & Andrewski is a perfectionist!

[kyle]

I too couldn't resist the urge and so I also mailed off the payment for one today. They are damn sweet looking guns. Already ordered my mags from Ohio Ordnance. The Sterling board over at www.machinegunbooks.com is really going to start jumping.

Vegas SMG, let's have a special Sterling match at the next Uzi Talk convention in Sin City.

Edited to add direct link to Sterling Board

http://www.machinegunbooks.com/forums/invboard1_1_2/upload/index.php?act=SF&f=6

[Paul556]

I guess I am the only one that didn't see the Recon Ord ad. What is the deal? I may have toad up the credit card again.

[L34A1]

Originally posted by stymie
BUT...

They will be trickling in over the next few months...
@ $6.9K/ weapon!

He who hesitates... LOSES!

OK... so I signed up on the waiting list & it will be a double transfer; had to round out the collection somehow... & this puppy is just the ticket.

I'd rather have one of these than an HK MP5 series, but that's just me.

;)

Jerry Prasser is definitely one of the best in the business & Andrewski is a perfectionist!

I agree with Stymie

The Sterling Mk5 is a far better weapon than the MP5 SD. This is of course my opinion. In the competition world, it has several advantages. Mags are superior, barrels can be changed to a non-ported or a barrel with fewer ports for use with heavy foddlers and it is such a simple firearm. (kiss principle) This is why when you put these things together with an operator that knows what he/she is doing, you have a winning combination. :2cents

[stymie]

for ReconOrd's ad...

Paul556

It will show $5,900 as those ads are time sensitive!

:(

[Vegas SMG]

The dealer I bought my Sterling from is shipping a few tubes at a time to Andrewski to be completed. I'd bet Jerry is doing much the same and the prices will continue to climb as their supply of registered DLO tubes dwindles and people discover what great guns the Strelings are. If anyone is SERIOUSLY interested in buying one, PM me and I'll give you the contact information for the dealer in the Houston area that I purchased mine from.

As a side note, an out of state friend bought me 3 of the NIW Ohio Ord mags as a wedding gift, so that gives me 9 new factory 34 round mags, 9 used mags, plus the one that comes with the gun! Just need the gun!!!

[drw]

The Sterling keeps amazing me! I had family up this way last week and everyone wanted seconds, and 3rd's with the Sterling.
Two of the shooters were 15 and 17 year old nieces who had never fired a gun before. They were able to walk rounds into 2 liter bottles at 40-45 yards! They were all smiles! And loaded their own magazines.

Recon Ordinance has them for $6900, still, get one while they are undervalued.

I will be machining an adapter to mount a threaded suppressor and optics soon! The suppressor is desired so that conversations will not be interupted while doing mag dumps and the optic to assist with mag dumps into one ragged hole in the paper. Yep, it is that smooth! I suspect that Sterling shooters will be grouped and scored separately in the near future.

[az paul]

Omega Man, etc., etc., etc., THANKS for posting all this info. I'm starting a hunt to see if there are any still out there for under $6000, and if so, will order one on Monday.

az paul

[Vegas SMG]

DRW...
I'd be interested in a suppressor and/or optic mount if you come up with something. Glad you're happy with your gun!

[stymie]

... for the LOW low price of:
*insert drum roll HERE
$5,995 + $60 s/h/i

:D

Timing IS everything!!!!!
IT was his last one.



:cool

Here we go again.......

[az paul]

I have located a couple of possibilities today, and plan to have one on order tomorrow. Stay tuned.....................

As Stymie said, "here we go again".

az paul

[stymie]

situation is reminiscent of the time that VECTOR was running out of registered receiver G.I. frames.

If you can latch on to one of these works of art for around $6K...
I suggest that you go4it...
ASAP!!!!!

Prices WILL skyrocket... PDQ

...yep!

[az paul]

TA-DAAAAAAA!!!!!! Got one today at $5800, delivered. Parts kit already ordered from IMA and new magazines from Ohio Ordnance.

What is with this wonderful affliction that we all share?????????? Somebody puts up a post about how great something is, and we all MUST have one.

Bad day for the plastic. Check this out...While looking for a lower-priced Sterling, I came across an S&W 76 that was formerly owned by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. BINGO.....gotta have it!! Another one bites the dust. Add on some more mags from Ohio Ordnance.

WHEN DOES IT END???????????

Anyway, if anyone's still looking for an available Sterling, check out <www.autoweapons.com> They still have a couple available for $5995, but will be raising the prices soon.

What a day!!

Count me in for a match at next year's UZI-Shoot.

az paul

[Vegas SMG]

Glad to hear it! I responded to 4 members that asked for the contact info on the Houston area dealer I bought mine from. Where you able to strike a deal with him or did you buy from someone else?

You'll love the S&W 76!!! Wonderful shooting guns!

http://albums.photo.epson.com/j/View?u=1713658&a=13168742&p=68113161&Sequence=0&res=high

[M4CARBINE]

I want to get one of these babies! Who has the best price? I spoke with Recon Arms and he is going to have some in about 2 weeks at $6900 each.. Still waiting to hear back from www.autoweapons.com. Anywhere else to find them?

[M4CARBINE]

Found one and grabbed it at $5800 shipped to my dealer! Now what shoud I buy for it?

[MuzzleFlash]

Damn guys, now you went and made me buy one!

We're going to need a Sterling forum if this keeps up!

[MuzzleFlash]

Anyone have a line on a manual for the MK4? I'd like some light reading during the long wait.

I already have a parts kit coming and I did order the book Guns of Dagenham (http://www.collectorgrade.com/bookshelf2.html). Has anyone read this book yet?

[L34A1]

The Guns of Dagenham is the bible. Everything you ever wanted to know about the Sterling is in this book. Every Sterling owner needs to have one.

[L34A1]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
Damn guys, now you went and made me buy one!

We're going to need a Sterling forum if this keeps up!

There is already a Sterling forum at

http://www.machinegunbooks.com/forums/invboard1_1_2/upload/index.php?act=SF&f=6

[MuzzleFlash]

Guys, quick heads up

Price goes up tomorrow or day after on autoweapons.com per Van. FYI-Time to SOGOTP.

I probably could have saved a couple of Franklins if I'd known about the Houston fella, but it's scratch in the grand scheme. I'm really looking forward to getting this gun! Stymie is right, this feels like the Vector situation in November 2002.

[drw]

Guns of Dagenham is a must have! I have drawn plans for the suppressor and optics mount, now I just need to get at the mill! I am respectfully asking that you guys back-off the accessories until after I have purchased a bayonet. They are out there, but I don't see myself paying $150 and up for a bayonet! Surely, someone in India has made a bunch and is just sitting on them until the price hits $35.
I am confident that a Sterling forum will be added to UziTalk right after the next UziTalker gathering, sooner if RoverDave gets one and/or right after Cookie has fired one of ours!

A manual is sent with the parts kit from IMA, and is probably available separately.

Congrats to those who have one on the way! In a year $6900 will look cheap!

[kyle]

I am so happy to be a member of

The few...

The proud...

The Sterling Owners Group...

To be fair to Cookie, I don't we should burn up the Uzi board's bandwidth with Sterling talk. I posted the link to the Sterling board on www.machinegunbooks.com on the first page of this thread. It's a very quiet board. Let's go stir up some trouble there!

[stymie]

...is an essential MUST READ for Sterling owners!

I purchased my MK4 from Van (Vahan Kelerchian) dba "Armament Services International, Inc."
website: http://www.autoweapons.com/home.html

I bought mine Sunday; at that time he had 3 left... one for me & two for another enthusiast. Sooooo... I'm not certain that he has any left! He will be increasing his price by $500 when he receives his next shipment from Stan Andrewski.

BTW: The weapon comes with...
2 34rd mags
owner's manual
certificate of authenticity (This ain't NO STEnling!)
operational video tape
& sling

NICE PACKAGE!!!

Yep... ordered 9 n.i.w. 34rd mags from Ohio Ord
:)

az paul...
Where didya STEAL that MK4 from?
;)
Ya done GOOD!
...& a S&W76
freakin' AWESOME!!!
Congrats!

[MuzzleFlash]

Stymie

The other enthusiast may have reevaluated his gold card balance. I was able to get one at the going rate.

I can't believe I took a pass on the $4700 DLO tube Sterling when it became available on Sturm. I slept on it and ended up a day late by the time I talked myself into it. Live and learn :(

[stymie]

I had a real problem w/ the projected cost of $7K... I just knew there had to be at least ONE Andrewski MK4 out there around the $5.9K ballpark. When I found it... I took the leap... had to... the day late/ dollar short thing gets old real quick!

$1K buys a bunch of mags... transfer tax... ammo & noodles

Yep...
THIS is my last one
HONEST!!!
;)

KRAP...
K = Diane Lawrence = 13 weeks of pain & sufferin'
...for F3 to my dealer!

Then...
add another 90 daze for M's (Alma McCoy) F4 to me!
:(

Well...
It beats kickin' myself in the @$$ for taking a pass
:buttkick

[az paul]

Stymie.........The MK4 came from FCP and the SW76 came from Van.

Congrats to all you guys who took the plunge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just need "The Guns of Dagenham", and I'm all set.

M4 Carbine.....................Ohio Ordnance has new Sterling mags and IMA has parts kits. DSA also has inexpensive mags.

Ill go sign in at the Machinegunbooks Forum, but it'd sure be nice to have one here as well, as we already share the UZI's in common.

az paul

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by drw
....I have drawn plans for the suppressor and optics mount, now I just need to get at the mill!....
That brings up a question or two about Sterling suppressors.

Is the suppressor removable or is it a permanent feature of the MG (like it is for the MP5-SD)? If permanent, could it be married to the MG and the whole package transfer on a single tax stamp? Don't MP5-SDs transfer that way?

Hmmmm. A suppressed Sterling sure sounds sweet!

[M60joe]

I'm in for one. Would be nice to have a discussion board here I agree.

[stymie]

az paul...

PFC? Phil Flack?

In any event...

"The Guns of Dagenham" is out-of-print!
BUT...
Ray Riling Books., Inc. ...has 5 - one ...available as of this morning!
;)
$45 + s&h
http://www.rayrilingarmsbooks.com/cgi-bin/rrb455.cgi/1486.html

[Vegas SMG]

FCP= FCP Tactical Supply. This would be the dealer I suggested. Looks like he still has some Andrewski built Sterlings for $4800.

[Vegas SMG]

Thanks for the heads up on "The Guns of Dagenham" Stymie. I was intending to order it at some point but just hadn't gotten around to it. My copy is being shipped today!

[stymie]

Originally posted by Vegas SMG
FCP= FCP Tactical Supply. This would be the dealer I suggested. Looks like he still has some Andrewski built Sterlings for $4800.

I think az paul said that's what he paid FCP in a recent post.

HOLY KRAP!!!!!
:buttkick

[az paul]

No, no!!!! I paid $5800, delivered. I *think* that was his last built Sterling, although he may have some more tubes to send to Andrewski, but I'm not sure.

Stymie, thanks for the info on the book. I'll order one now.

By the way, guys, I just spoke with the folks at DSA, and they still have a small quantity of the $10 Sterling mags available.

And the frenzy continues....................

az paul

[az paul]

Stymie...Just ordered the book. Thanks.

And now, they have two left in inventory, but can get more, if need be..

az paul

[drw]

The Mk5 Sterling has an integral suppressor, with a drilled barrel to vent gas and reduce velocity, this configuation would be married to the receiver. I am threading and end-cap which will use the barrel retaining bolts to secure a suppressor to the front of the gun, and will use subsonic ammo. The optic mount will use the barrel shroud perforations as mounting points.

[title2]

I just bought a Sterling!

Wooohoooo!

[kyle]

At last count, I think that's 7 new owners now.

I have a BUNCH of questions, especially about the history of these DLO tube receivers. Do we want to stay here with our UZI brothers or migrate somewhere else. I'd be happy to kick in some $$ to cookie for our "off topic" bandwidth. Maybe he could setup a seperate forum like the Galil forum.

I know... we could say that the British designers were Jewish and so there NEEDS to be a Sterling forum on the UZI board. What say ye?

[RoverDave]

Originally posted by kyle
At last count, I think that's 7 new owners now.

I have a BUNCH of questions, especially about the history of these DLO tube receivers. Do we want to stay here with our UZI brothers or migrate somewhere else. I'd be happy to kick in some $$ to cookie for our "off topic" bandwidth. Maybe he could setup a seperate forum like the Galil forum.

I know... we could say that the British designers were Jewish and so there NEEDS to be a Sterling forum on the UZI board. What say ye?

By all means, keep the discussion here. Obviously there's a lot of interest. (I've been fighting the urge to get one myself.) No reason it can't stay in the General Firearms Talk forum, or we could make A Subguns Forum.

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by az paul
Stymie...Just ordered the book. Thanks.

And now, they have two left in inventory, but can get more, if need be..

az paul Book links (I didn't check inventory):

http://www.collectorgrade.com/bookshelf2.html (free shipping, best deal)
http://www.booktrail.com/Guns_MilitMach/MachineGuns.asp
http://www.rayrilingarmsbooks.com/cgi-bin/rrb455.cgi/1486.html
http://www.idsabooks.com/cgi-bin/idb455/100634.html
http://www.gunshowbooks.com/cgi-bin/webc.exe/st_prod.html?p_prodid=GS126924&sid=6M3B9IR-
http://www.gunbooksales.com/mil_new1.htm
http://www.csmetall-werkes.com/books.htm
http://www.kelleyarms.com/collectg.htm
http://www.dsarms.com/item-detail.cfm?ID=600G&storeid=1&image=book600G.gif

[az paul]

C'mon RoverDave, join in the fun!! We're worse than a bunch of kids clamoring for a Cabbage Patch Doll during the shortage.

Kyle..... I'm Jewish, so that may automatically qualify a Sterling thread for the UZI board. And for all of us that are tapping out our savings accounts or plastic, let us all shout in unison, a resounding "OY VEY".

az paul

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by RoverDave
....I've been fighting the urge to get one myself..... Just one more gun. It will be the last one. You'll see. :( Just open the safe and ask all those little NFA toys if they want a new brother with a proper British accent...... well maybe not. The MP5 might get jealous if you fall in love with the balanced, controllable competition grade Sterling. You just might have to leave the sear pack on the V53 for good.... :D

Is this helping...NOT! :D :D :D :buttkick

[RoverDave]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
Just one more gun. It will be the last one. You'll see.

La, la, la, la, la..... I can't hear you.

[tax_monster]

+1 !!

[kyle]

Allright! That's 9 counting another new owner over on the Sterling board.

[stymie]

:cool

[stymie]

:cool

[drw]

Nice fit, who makes it, how much and where did you find yours?

[stymie]

http://www.bdlltd.com/maint.htm

"Marksman Supplies Sterling smg Case"
(made in Canada for the C-1)

$69

[stymie]

manuals, blank firing adapters & front sight adjustment tools...

They had two sight tools this morning...
Now they have one left
($149/ea)
:(

Yeah... I know
I know...

[stymie]

:cool

[Vegas SMG]

Damn expensive method of drifting the front site... I saw the price and decided I can use a brass hammer and punch if needed.

[MuzzleFlash]

Maybe Stymie will rent his :D

[stymie]

British No.5Mk.1, w/scabbard, late issue for the Sterling SMG, $159.00 @ BDL

Vegas SMG...
The front sight adjusts like an AK... once the grub screw is loosened!

[stymie]

Well.... UPS & USPS have been dropping off packages lately.
... stuff to take my mind off the long @$$ wait of a double transfer!

Got the book: "The Guns of Dagenham"
Yep... it's the freakin' BIBLE on Sterling smgs.
... everything you always wanted to know & MORE
... a superb reference work

Got my 34rd roller-follower mags... n.i.w.
I ordered 9... they came wrapped in vapor-paper & electrical tape.
8 were gorgeous... one looked like it went to scratch & dent HELL & back... lol
Ohio Ordnance will be replacing that one... Hat's off to them...
great customer service!

Got my front sight tool from BDL
There is NO provision for elevation changes... only horizontal drift!
*but I knew that... lol
eXpensive piece of memorabilia!
Also... got the C-1 case
It's nicely made of canvas & impregnated with rust inhibitors & waterproofing agents...
BUT... I got to tell you... it STINKS!!!!!!!
VERY musty smell to it.

I just call 'em as I see 'em!
;)

OK... I got a ton of ammo
Something's missing....
Hmmmm!

Oh yeah... that dang MK4

[Vegas SMG]

The BBT delivered my copy of "The Guns of Dagenham" today and Stymie is 100% correct, this is the Bible of Sterlings and their history. If you have a Sterling in transfer, you NEED this book!!

Same experience less the bad mag with the 9 I've received from Ohio Ordnance. I also have 9 well used mags to occupy my time while I wait for the transfer. The condition of the 34 round mags from DS Arms are equal to the ones I bought from IMA. I wouldn't waste my money on the mags from IMA when the DSA mags are in the same shape for half the money. YMMV

[M60joe]

I shot a MK4 at Bulletfest here in Ohio last Friday. ROF seemed way slower then the full size UZI.

Very nice gun.

I'm a month away :D

Time to make a threaded end cap for a "Can"


http://www.ima-usa.com/images/B077.gif

[M4CARBINE]

Will you make it to accept an UZI can? If so, are you going to be selling them?

[M60joe]

Originally posted by M4CARBINE
Will you make it to accept an UZI can? If so, are you going to be selling them?

Yes, I can sell them.

Most likely for a UZI "can" and 1/2-28. (3 lug too but will be $$) I'm waiting for a parts kit so I can get the end cap and design a perpendicular end cap with threads.... I'll have ACAD drawings if anyone wants them.

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by stymie
....
Got the book: "The Guns of Dagenham"
Yep... it's the freakin' BIBLE on Sterling smgs.
... everything you always wanted to know & MORE
... a superb reference work
... Just finished it. Excellent read and one of the best references on specific gun history I've read. I get a kick out of the British terminology. A translation table for those who are just starting on the book:

US-------------->UK

receiver-------->casing
bolt------------->breech block
stock----------->butt
bayonet lug--->bayonet standard
front sight----->foresight
selector-------->change lever

Did you read the part about warped casings (receivers)? The brazing process caused them to bend. To counter this, Sterling purposely bent them in the opposite direction prior to brazing. If they ended up with any out-of-spec casings, they could straighten them by induction heating. The Canadians used a copper bar heat sink to draw heat away and apparently had no warpage problems.

I wonder how DLO/Andrewski dealt with this problem? For that matter, I wonder if they are going the Sterling route and brazing everything or doing the Canadian style spot welding?

[stymie]

For more details than you can probably take at one time....
try the SEARCH feature @ subguns.com archive & ENTER....
Andrewski
OR
Sterling
Don't forget to check the box to go back a couple of years...
makes for interesting reading!
:)

http://subguns.biggerhammer.net/mgmsgarchive.cgi?search

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by M4CARBINE
Will you make it to accept an UZI can? If so, are you going to be selling them? BGS claims to have 10 of them, already spoken for. Also they are trying to patent their design if you take them at face value.

http://subguns.biggerhammer.net/mgmsgarchive.cgi?read=365216

http://subguns.biggerhammer.net/mgmsgarchive.cgi?read=381287

[MuzzleFlash]

One more chance for those who waited.

http://www.sturmgewehr.com/webBBS/nfa4sale.cgi?read=46351

[drw]

The No 5 Jungle Carbine bayonet has been purchased. They are out there, but I told myself there is no way I'm spending $150-$175 for a bayonet! I have been looking for a better deal since Oct '03, hoping that someone would uncover a stockpile of India's version. Well, thats what I got, one of Ishapore's examples of firearm cutlery! My only hope is that it was made from a recycled American made lawnmower blade and not some backalley subcontractor using donkey dung to heat his furnace!
Once it has arrived, I will affix bayonet and charge the backstop, test results will follow asap.

[RoverDave]

Hey Muzzleflash, guess what???? I might be getting a Sterling! I've been doing my best to stay clear of this temptation but I'm smart enough not to pass up a deal. I stumbled across one that a guy has owned for the past year or so. Runs 100% and is in like new condition. Built on a DLO tube. Sling and several mags. $5300! I should know today if I got the deal or not.

[stymie]

RoverDave...

Check to be sure that it's a DLO STERLING... NOT a DLO STEn tube.
:cool

[RoverDave]

Yeah, I'm still trying to verify that. I know the serial number is in the same 800XXX range as the other's you guys have been getting, which leads me to believe it's a Sterling tube. I might have trouble getting a photo of the gun. (These are low tech guys I'm working with.) What's the most reliable way to id a Stenling?

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by RoverDave
Hey Muzzleflash, guess what???? I might be getting a Sterling! I've been doing my best to stay clear of this temptation but I'm smart enough not to pass up a deal. I stumbled across one that a guy has owned for the past year or so. Runs 100% and is in like new condition. Built on a DLO tube. Sling and several mags. $5300! I should know today if I got the deal or not. Congratulations! Whether a Stenling or Sterling, you should have a good performer.

The easiest way to tell is to measure the width of the cocking slot. 0.25" is the Sterling dimension, both Sten Mk II & Mk V are 0.375. The ATF does not allow changes to this dimension so the Stenlings use Sterling parts with a custom machined cocking handle.

[RoverDave]

I sent Doug an email asking him to verify based on the serial number but haven't heard back yet. (Shouldn't he be doing email instead of real work???)

[MuzzleFlash]

RD

DLO made about 400 Sterling tubes. AFIK, he didn't make many operational guns if any at all. The two most common builders these days are the Andrewski's (John & Stan, father & son) and Don Quinell. Some people care a lot as to who did the build.

From what I've read, Don Q has done a lot of the Stenlings from various tube manufacturers and also few Sterlings. The knock on Don is that he over-commits and gets things delivered late, but the quality is right on. One Guy (http://subguns.biggerhammer.net/mgmsgarchive.cgi?read=212403) has a serious issue with him. Back to the Stenlings, some people do not like his method of pining the cocking handle in place to keep it from rotating. Makes for a difficult field strip. That said, the guns shoot fine.

Andrewski seems to be nearly universally respected. If he did your gun, you probably have the best DLO build out there.

BTW, My Sterling serial # is 80032x if that helps.

Have you ordered "The Guns of Dagenham"?

[stymie]

MuzzleFlash...

We both have the same serial #
...what are the chances?
lol
;)


Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
RD

BTW, My Sterling serial # is 80032x if that helps.

[MuzzleFlash]

From my net research:

First is a Don Quinell Stenling
Second is an Andrewski Sterling

Sorry for the fuzzy Stenling pic. If someone has a better one, pls post.

http://www.uziworld.com/sterlingpics/stenling.jpg http://www.uziworld.com/sterlingpics/sterling.jpg

[RoverDave]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
BTW, My Sterling serial # is 80032x if that helps.

Have you ordered "The Guns of Dagenham"?

The number on this gun is 8000XX. I know that DLO just made (and registered) the tube but he should be able to tell me if it's a Sten or Sterling tube.

Yup, I've had that book for the last year or so.

[MuzzleFlash]

Found one that may be reasonable.

http://www.collectorssource.com/category.asp?catid=4

Part BA-100 $125 CDN or about $96 US + ship.

You're welcome. :D

http://www.uziworld.com/sterlingpics/04-1a.jpghttp://www.uziworld.com/sterlingpics/024_21A.jpg

FWIW Atlanta Cutlery has them coming in too, but the order chick "thinks" they'll be about $200. I'm waiting to hear back from a Mr. Julius to get the straight poop. Doesn't sound too promising.

[drw]

Good Luck Dave. The latest issue of SAR, Kent Lomont's add has a Sterling listed.

[akkid]

Anyone have pics of the dm IMI kits? Lets see em.

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
Found one that may be reasonable.

http://www.collectorssource.com/category.asp?catid=4

Part BA-100 $125 CDN or about $96 US + ship.
....
FWIW Atlanta Cutlery has them coming in too, but the order chick "thinks" they'll be about $200. I'm waiting to hear back from a Mr. Julius to get the straight poop. Doesn't sound too promising. Heard from Julius at Atlanta Cutlery. Quote:

The price on the bayonet with scabbard is $ 54.95 plus shipping and
handling.... We should have the No.5 bayonets in the next 2 to 3 weeks. You may go
ahead and back order the same.

Regards,

Julius.


OK, I already ordered mine from Canada. Teach me to jump too quick on a non-NFA deal. Since they're not in yet at AC, you might want to wait awhile and then call for a pic. Just passing the intel along...

[Vegas SMG]

Originally posted by akkid
Anyone have pics of the dm IMI kits? Lets see em.

Not sure what you're asking for, but here's a photo of the IMA Sterling parts kit I received.

[MuzzleFlash]

I got my IMA kit but it was short a mag, a buttcap, barrel screws, ejector assembly and mag catch assembly. When I called, he asked who packed it. Sure enough, it was Amber. I have this mental image....:D

I was assured I would receive the rest of my order this week.

BTW, the mags with the kit seem to be identical to the DSA mags as has been stated in other's posts. I agree, they aren't worth the money when you can get nice, NIW from Ohio Ordinance for $8.33 more.

What is that gun coating that is slick like teflon? That might be a good thing to refinish these mags with.

[stymie]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash

What is that gun coating that is slick like teflon? That might be a good thing to refinish these mags with.

well... it could be!

[kyle]

Originally posted by Vegas SMG
Not sure what you're asking for, but here's a photo of the IMA Sterling parts kit I received.
I hope that's a complete kit cause that's all I got also.

How many mags you guys buying? I've got 8 not counting the one that should come with the gun. I think that should do it; don't you agree?

[tax_monster]

I think I've ordered a dozen mags so far. I'm thinking another dozen ought to do it. :D

[az paul]

Six NIW mags from Ohio Ordnance, three used mags from DSA, two used ones from IMA, plus the one that comes with the gun.


az paul

[Vegas SMG]

To date; 9 NIW Ohio ordance mags, 6 DSA mags, and 3 of the twenty dollars each IMA mags that were the equal of the DSA mags for ten each. Plus the one with the gun. I did run the IMA mags in a buddy's Sterling and they feed and function just fine in spite of their appearance.

[drw]

23 mags so far! 12 niw and 11 used. thats 748 rounds of fun between loading mags.... 7 more mags and I can carry a case of ammo already loaded. The ammo bills have definitly gone up.

The bayonet has been received and appears to have never been issued. My Sterling however, will need a little adjustment to mount the bayonet correctly. It looks like during the demill process my lug took a hit and is bent, preventing the bayonet from attaching correctly.

[MuzzleFlash]

The F3 from ASI to my local SOT was approved in 2.5 weeks.

Now I can go visit my new baby! Hope this is a sign of speedy Form 4's to come.

[tax_monster]

I just got word that mine were just approved too! Same dealer - ASI (autoweapons.com). He signed and mailed the Form 3 on 6/28, got back approved forms today, will ship guns on Monday.

Since the dealer sent me copies of the Form 3s after he mailed them, I used the info to fill out my Form 4s, so I just need my FFLs signature and I can mail them off the same day.

If things go well, I might even have them in my grubby little hands by mid-August! woo hoo!!!

[stymie]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
The F3 from ASI to my local SOT was approved in 2.5 weeks.

Now I can go visit my new baby! Hope this is a sign of speedy Form 4's to come.

I just got an e-mail from Vahan this morning; he's shipping to my dealer on Monday!!!!!

:D

[tax_monster]

So did we all buy from the same guy? :)

[MuzzleFlash]

Yup and we probably have adjacent serial numbers. Brothers in arms :cool :cool :cool

[M60joe]

Not me, my NIB came from another guy.

[Vegas SMG]

Several of us bought from Frank Powell of FCP Tactical Supply in Texas. No word yet, but I expect to have good news soon.

[RoverDave]

I thought the Sterling owners here might enjoy this photo.


http://files.uzitalk.com/reference//literature/magazines/Firepower%201984%20April/08PRINCE.JPG

It's much easier to find photos of Charles without Diana these days...

[MuzzleFlash]

Hmmmm. Something tells me that PC gets to shoot whenever he feels like it. Too bad for the other 99.99999% of the country.

Good find, Dave!

So what's the poop on your Sterling quest? Sten or Ster-ling Did ya get it? Huh? Huh? :D

[RoverDave]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
So what's the poop on your Sterling quest? Sten or Ster-ling Did ya get it? Huh? Huh? :D

I haven't got anything yet. Here's the deal. A class III dealer I know said that a customer of his has a Sterling he wants to sell. The guy had bought it from this dealer just a year ago. The dealer has been the go-between since the owner doesn't like messing with this stuff himself. Anyway, the owner set his price and I said I'd buy it. I'm still waiting to hear back if he accepts. I suspect he's having some second thoughts on whether or not he really wants to part with it. I haven't been pressuring him. Whatever happens, happens.

[az paul]

Mine came from Frank Powell, as well. No word yet.

RoverDave....Hope your deal goes through. Please keep us posted.

[az paul]

So, I'm reading "The Guns of Dagenham" and find out that you can use the inexpensive Sten mags and the 50-round Lanchester mags with the Sterling. Interesting!! More info on Page 282.

[amphibian]

Originally posted by az paul
So, I'm reading "The Guns of Dagenham" and find out that you can use the inexpensive Sten mags and the 50-round Lanchester mags with the Sterling. Interesting!! More info on Page 282.

Yup, I noticed just this past weekend a competitor w/ a Sterling started a stage w/ a 50 round Lanchester mag.

[L34A1]

From the competition point of view, the Lanchester mag is unreliable as well as the Sten mags. They WILL hick-up and you just can't clear a malfunction fast enough. Sometimes they work and sometimes they don't, but for just blasting down range they will do. Also, the gun is not smooth at all when running these mags. The single feed restricts the rounds feeding into the chamber. Try it and you will see and feel. I sold all mine.:)

[az paul]

Thanks much for the input, TFA. I was thinking the 50-rounders would bring a little "oomph" to the party.

[MuzzleFlash]

here (http://www.auctionarms.com/search/displayitem.cfm?itemnum=5913115)

[kyle]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
here (http://www.auctionarms.com/search/displayitem.cfm?itemnum=5913115)

Damn... that's one ugly looking gun. Andrewski's guns look better, don't they?

[stymie]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
here (http://www.auctionarms.com/search/displayitem.cfm?itemnum=5913115)

Not a bad price tho!

[Vegas SMG]

That is one ugly gun! Heck, some of the assemblies in my parts kit look better than the the STEnling pictured. I have posted here that I was able to compare both Quinell and Andrewski built Sterlings side by side at our June SMG matche and that Quinell looked MUCH better than this STEnling for sale. When the SMG matches resume next month after the summer break, I'll try and get a couple of side by side photos.

I think we've all read some of the horror stories of Don Quinell guns having durability issues, so I for one am pleased to have located an Andrewski Sterling. Kyle, don't worry, you'll be happy with the Andrewski build in both fit and finish, and the one used at our matches has run 100% perfectly unlike the Don Quinell gun which suffered an OOB failure at the June match. No damage what-so-ever to the gun, and the owner attributed it to the ammo he was using... Maybe, maybe not.

The guns coming from Frank Powell of FCP Tactical Supply are Andrewski builds and he's now powder coating the guns rather than using the crackle finish. The commercial type crackle finish is more prone to flaking and chipping when bumped or banged as those of us with the parts kits can attest too.

[stymie]

HERESY!!!!!

I'm glad mine came with that cheap JAP telescope crackle finish...
Gotta luv it!
:)

[Leroy]

That Stenling on Auction Arms should be OK, although I spoke with the owner, a 73 year old gent who owns a pawn shop and had his Sten sent to Don Quinell, and he would not budge on the price with shipping include.
We figured shipping to be 63.00 bucks and he couldn't eat that for a sale.
I don't want to sound cheap over 63 bucks, but I know I don't quible over 63 bucks if I sell a 5K investment.
After all, He had bought it long ago as a Sten(we know how little that had to have been), and he couldn't eat ship.
If anyone should want this Stenling, bid the one bid on it and he can pay the auction house.
Sure, he wants to sell at a profit but won't let the next guy park their money till they can profit.
I figured due to the jump from the spring to the asking for one at 5K should make it necessary for someone to park their money for a Stenling till fall of next year to make it worth their while for investment to make profit.
I don't know why it hasn't sold yet, maybe people read the negatives on the user rating and get scared out, I don't know.
I would think Don would have test fired it for function, but he sez it has not, maybe that scares people away.

As to the finish of powdercoat vs crackle, I have had crackle finished for a long time on many Sterlings and Stenlings and have found it to hold up great to small scatches and heat AS LONG AS IT WAS A GOOD CRACLE JOB IN THE FIRST PLACE.
Some will do a poor job of the harley davidson crinkle, and yes, it does not hold up well.
Most of Dons were finished with the original crackle paint from Sterling mfg., I even have one made prior to the 86 ban by another mfg. that has the Sterling crackle and it has had no flake and seems scratch resistant.
Also, if you go as far to have the original thin slot, why not go with what Sterling ended up with as their ultimate finish for originality.
Powdercoat is great, but not original from a collectors point of view.

[kyle]

Is the picture Stymie posted way back on page 1 of this thread of a powdercoated gun or a crackled gun?

[MuzzleFlash]

Little Yoda Star wars lingo, there.

[Leroy]

Crackle was the term used by Sterling along with other britt terms such as putting the extra letter in "Aluminium".

Harley used the term crinkle for their case paint, it didn't hold up well at all to time and heat.

years ago we seen import of actual crackle paint for use with Sterlings, I have a Stenling built by Ken Sykes(r.i.p.), of Kenfix Co. that utilizes the crackle paint.

As far as I'm cocerned, as long as the bolt travels back and forth and goes bang every time and the gun itself is a straite shooter, it should be worthy to repair should anything wear out.

Point being, shoot it till the barrel wears out and have fun, replace the barrel and have more fun.



:)

[Vegas SMG]

Thoughts on this Sterling suppressor adapter?? I just got an email that my name has come up on their waiting list and need to act fast or lose out.

http://www.pacinfo.com/~bgsent/adaptercloseextra.jpg

[Vegas SMG]

And an image depicting the mount, (in stainlees rather than the Guncote finish), installed on the gun.

http://www.pacinfo.com/~bgsent/mtdwosupr1.jpg

[M60joe]

Easy way to go. Hope the Cans have large bores..... IMHO

[stymie]

Originally posted by joeblack
Easy way to go. Hope the Cans have large bores..... IMHO

If I were to modify the Sterling MK4 for a suppressor ...
I would configure the front of the receiver tube to MK7 para smg or MK6 semi specs. That way you would assure concentricity & be able to utilize the threaded, locking bbl nut... similar to the one found on UZI's (plunger... instead of a ratchet).

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by joeblack
Easy way to go. Hope the Cans have large bores..... IMHO Might want to put a .45 can on it for starters.:D

[Leroy]

Is it me or do I see a substantial gap where the barrel would end and the threaded cap begin?

If this is so, would it not be a better concept to have the adaptor fit over the shoud area with a slightly oversized inner diameter tube to abutt the barrel that would be externaly threaded on its outer diamiter?

If this is so, would 1 loose bolt from either side allow for a round or rounds to ruin a suppresor should it fall out from true center?

I must not completely understand this concept, can someone please explain?:argue

[Vegas SMG]

Yeah, I'm totally unimpressed and think I'll hold off rather than risk a baffle strike. Here's the email I received on it. ***********

You are receiving this email because you expressed interest in our new suppressor adapter for the Sterling smg. You are on our waiting list. An adapter has become available for purchase.

The adapters are ready to ship. They are available in Gun-Kote black or a few in natural stainless finish, please specify. Price is $80 plus $4 shipping to the continental US.

The adapter allows any 1/2x28tpi threaded muzzle device to be mounted onto a Sterling smg. The adapter mounts to the muzzle with two special bolts supplied with the adapter.

The adapter may be left in place during unsuppressed shooting. In such a case we recommend the use of a standard thread protector (available from other sources such as Gun Parts Corp.), M16-type flash suppressor or similar covering to protect the threads.

Pictures are here:

Stainless adapter mounted with a suppressor:
http://www.pacinfo.com/~bgsent/mtdwsupr1.jpg

Stainless adapter mounted without a suppressor:
http://www.pacinfo.com/~bgsent/mtdwosupr1.jpg

Gunkote black adapter unmounted viewed from several angles:
http://www.pacinfo.com/~bgsent/adaptercloseextra.jpg

Please specify stainless finish or black Gunkote finish.

Please feel free to ask any questions.

The initial run was for a small number of adapters. If you want one of them, please confirm by email by midnight on Friday August 13th or decline at your earliest convenience. The next day, the unclaimed adapters will be offered to the next persons on the waiting list.

Make check or money order out to:

BGS Enterprises
P.O. Box 137
Eugene, OR 97440
(541) 461-0349

Checks are held for clearing. Money orders are shipped immediately.

You may visit our web page at: http://www.pacinfo.com/~bgsent/

[Leroy]

OK then, it isn't just me.
Thanks for the reply.
New Things are always coming out advertised as "New and Exciting", I don't care the the exciting part to much........;)

[MuzzleFlash]

I got to hold my new baby at the dealer's today. I brought home the mags, manual and video too. The F4's for the Sterling and AC556 went out today. The long wait starts.....

[Gun Shot]

Excellent MF, congrats :cool

[kyle]

Originally posted by MuzzleFlash
I got to hold my new baby at the dealer's today. I brought home the mags, manual and video too. The F4's for the Sterling and AC556 went out today. The long wait starts.....

Well damn MF... how did it look? No pics?

[MuzzleFlash]

Originally posted by kyle
Well damn MF... how did it look? No pics? No pics. When he called to tell me the 556 had come in, I ducked out of work and ran down to pick up the F4s. I had just enough time to look the guns over, drop the forms in the mail and get back for a meeting.

The Sterling was absolutely cherry. I can't believe a factory new gun would look any nicer. It was hard to hand it back knowing it would be in his safe for another 6 to 16 weeks, :(

The gun looks just like Stymie's pic. Great crackle finish, wonderful balance, natural pointer. The mag well is from a "real" Sterling SMG and still contains the KR series serial number. The DLO markings are in a straight line - IIRC on left side of the tube itself - including the serial number. The grips were new - not a banged up parts kit take off. If it shoots like it looks, I will be a happy man.

Here's the "Certificate of Authenticity" that came with the gun to make me feel better about draining my savings account ;)

[kyle]

I'm still SO CONFUSED about the finish on these guns. It is my understanding that the Andrewski guns coming from Frank Powell/Jerry Prasser sport a powdercoat finish- not the bedliner "crackle" finish. While I know your gun didn't come from them directly I am pretty sure this recent crop of Andrewski-built guns originated from the Powell/Prasser tandem. Did they spec some of their guns one way and some another? Frank refers to the finish on my gun as "powdercoat" but says it looks just like the one in depicted in Stymie's picture. Does someone know the complete story?

[MuzzleFlash]

Kyle

You can always call Stan and ask what they did.

(603) 746-4387

[Vegas SMG]

Kyle,
On page 53 of "The Guns of Dagenham," you'll find mention of the "crackle" finish which among other things, was found useful in hiding "a multitude of sins," that resulted during the manufacturing process. This section goes on to say that the commercial guns were built using the crackle finish with "only the UK Military usually opting for matt black paint."

So it would seem that the majority of Sterlings of all models sold to, and used by other countries, were built utilizing the crackle finish, while the guns fielded by the Brits were built using a finish very similar to the Powdercoated guns Frank Powell is selling.

Which finish more closely resembles a factory Sterling? It would depend on which country bought and deployed the guns. The Powdercoated guns should more closely resemble the Sterlings deployed by England.

[MuzzleFlash]

Interesting. That would imply that the Dagenham guns were mostly crackle and the Fazakerly ones were all matte. The Sterling company had an exclusive on export guns, but the socialists had mouths to feed at ROF so most of the UK military production occured there.

I suspect the powdercoat is more durable and probably better for black ops.

[stercraz]

Is mine and it is an Andrewski built, crinkle finished, powder coat to answer the question about the finish. I love the thing, my absolute favorite SMG. Any questions, please don't hesitate to ask!
Sterling Woodruff
PDHSC, Inc.
Raleigh, NC

[John C]

So this is where the Sterling owners hang out? I hope we can get some good posts going.

I'm checking in with a John Andrewski Sterling. Only one word to describe it: PERFECT!!!

Here's my post from subguns.com about the Better Gun Shop muzzle adapter:

"Did anybody take delivery of the muzzle adapter that Better Gunshop is selling for the Sterling L2A3? I was on the list of the first 10 to get one but some of the comments in their offer made it clear to me the adapter design wasn't finalized. There are too many downsides of being a beta tester for these guys so I bailed out. Did you have to modify the adapter or the muzzle ring for it to fit? Any problems using a can?"

Nice to be here.

[John C]

I didn't know you were on this forum. It looks like all of us John Andrewski Sterling owners can't praise it enough. I still haven't gotten a chance to get to NC on business yet. Seeya.

[stercraz]

Hey John, good to hear from ya again! Yeah, I'm here too, just joined today so that I could post about my pic that Stymie lifted from somewhere on the net (it's ok, it's a good pic and I'm kind'of proud that it's mine) probably came from my website. There are a couple more (one that I lifted from someone too) if you are interested Stymie.
If it's true that there are only 400 DLO Sterling receivers, which I find hard to believe, I doubt that we will need our own "Sterling board" but we might benefit from our own forum on a donor board of choice (seems here is a good one :-)). Anyone got the real scoop on the poop on this one, 400 receivers or more? I'm guessing a lot more. Hell, Vector had 3k that Group made, and they were a lot more involved than a piece of pipe with a slot.
Sterling Woodruff
PDHSC, Inc.
Raleigh, NC

[drw]

Welcome guys, glad you found this place,, it should get very lively here in about 6-8 weeks, when a bunch of transfers are approved.
I was able to run 500 rounds thru mine last Sunday, without any problems. Those of you who have purchased the well used magazines from d n d , IMA , etc. don't worry. I have found that if the magazine will hold the ammo the gun will feed and fire it!
I took some of the beat up mags and they all worked just fine. A couple mags were adjusted at the feed lip end by banging on the hardwood bench, once the lips were bent down the mag worked fine!

[Vegas SMG]

I've recently heard from a RKI that the number of DLO tubes is in fact +/- 400 with fewer than 90 currently remaining in DLO's inventory. That's not to say that other manufacturers didn't produce tubes of their own so that would bump the number up. Add to that number the PAWS produced Sterlings that have been converted, any pre 1989 factory guns imported, and it's anyone's guess as to the true number of transferable guns in the registry. I'd guess less than 1,000... way less. Now if you want to throw STEnlings into the mix... Anyone know of or actually seen a registered tube by anyone OTHER than DLO?

STERCRAZ and John C, WELCOME!!! Glad you found us. John C, if you back up a page or two on this topic, you'll find my posts on The Better Gunshop's adapter and the email I received from them. Like you, I had to pass on their generous offer to be one of their Beta testers.:D

[John C]

Vegas, I found this forum thru a response to my inquiry on subguns.com if anyone accepted the Better Gun Shop offer. Too bad, tho as I'd really like to find a way to put my Striker 2 on my Sterling. Maybe when my IMA parts kit arrives I'll sit down with my gunsmith and try to devise something.

BTW: Stan Andrewski was the one who told me he thinks that Doug Oefinger only registered 400 Sterling tubes. Glad I got mine from DLO when the price was only $2500. OTOH, I should have bought a few more.

[az paul]

John C. and Stercraz...WELCOME ABOARD!! There are a bunch of us here awaiting Sterling Transfers.

DRW...Thanks for the tip on the cheap magazines. I'm in the process of refurbishing the DSA UZI mags now, and when they're done, will start on the Sterling mags.

[P7M13]

Does anyone have any idea how many factory Sterling guns are transferrable? I saw a posting a couple of months back where a guy was trying to figure out a price on two C&R MK4's.

Any idea on how many Sterling factory MK6's (semis) were converted to FA before the '86 ban? I know of at least two.

I can get pics for you guys to see, can somebody tell me where I can post them for free?

[stercraz]

Vegas...thanks for the welcome, it's always good to be among friends.
As to the # of transferrables...that's incredible, I figured that there were much more than 400 DLO tubes registered as MK4's...guess I was wrong, it has happened before, I think.
I also purchased mine from DLO at the $2500.00 price, it's amazing to see how much the price has grown over a year or so. I knew at KCR two years back in April that the Sterling was going to be the next "Vector Uzi". Also, I figured that I surely must have one, why not, right? Knowing how they perform and how few there actually are, I can see why the price has jumped as it has and am surprised that it has not risen even more. The Sterling is one gun that I will not part with...easily my favorite to shoot.
As an aside, we have a pre-86 dealer sample in stock, until I saw that one, I had no idea that a dlr sample existed. Given as old as they are, does anyone actually have a factory british Sterling?
Shoot well,
Sterling Woodruff
PDHSC, Inc.
Raleigh, NC

[Dan0341]

Sterling, glad to see you on the board. As a teenager, we had a family friend that had a Canadian Sterling. As long as I helped him reload ammo, I could shoot his guns as much as I wanted. I agree, Sterlings are very smooth and has to be one of the nicest shooting subguns. Here's a bad pic of the Sterling and some of his other weapons. Polaroid pic is about 20 years old - bet you could never tell with the movie posters;) If I ever make it over to his house again, I'll take some detailed pics of it.

Dan

http://home.netcom.com/~m16commando/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/foursubguns.jpg

[John C]

P7M13, Go here for free pic posting: Free pic posting (http://www.hunt101.com). The site is down right now (9 AM in PA).

Seeya, John C

[RoverDave]

Originally posted by P7M13
I can get pics for you guys to see, can somebody tell me where I can post them for free?

You can post pictures directly on UZI Talk. Just just the "Attach File" option when you're entering a reply. Make sure the picture is < 200k.

[P7M13]

Originally posted by John C
P7M13, Go here for free pic posting: Free pic posting (http://www.hunt101.com). The site is down right now (9 AM in PA).

Seeya, John C

Thanks John. I post at HUNT101, tried it last night and received a message that they currently shut-off uploading of photos until they upgrade some hardware. No timeframe was given as to when the upgrade would take place :(

[P7M13]

Originally posted by RoverDave
You can post pictures directly on UZI Talk. Just just the "Attach File" option when you're entering a reply. Make sure the picture is < 200k.

OK, Here goes. I had to reduce the resolution, but you get the idea.

Original Sterling factory paint job and markings for a MK6. Evil semi features inside the gun (block, etc.) were removed and MK4 parts were inserted (barrel, bolt, trigger). You can tell the trigger is a MK4 because the selector travels forward to the FA position (although gun not remarked). Amazing that someone had the foresight to convert this prior to 1986. It's transferrable. How many can be out there? Can't get any better than a factory made gun!

[P7M13]

And here's a threaded barrel option since the MK6 originally had a end cap that screwed on to hold the semi barrel in. In these photos, a threaded extension was welded directly to the barrel (yes, it was turned down at the end and a shoulder was put on both pieces before welding to insure that it was on perfectly straight) and a new end cap (it would look a lot better in the crinkle finish) was made to cover the standard barrel screws. This method is guaranteed not to cause baffle strikes as the suppressor is actually connected to the end of the barrel. What do you guys think?

[John C]

That's a nice setup. Since the L2A3 doesn't have the removeable muzzle cap a similar setup wouldn't be so EZ to make. Hmmmm, I have an idea. I'd like to keep this topic going until someone comes up with something for all of us.

John C.

[RoverDave]

+1

You bastards pushed me over the edge. I closed the deal on one today. A DLO/Andrewski Sterling in like new condition with 6 mags for $5800. How could I say no?

[kyle]

GIVE ME 5 MY MAN!

[John C]

Awwwww right Dave. Good on ya! And welcome to the club.

John C

[az paul]

TA-DAAAAA....Congrats, Dave!! You certainly couldn't say "no" to that deal.

[Leroy]

Good show Ol bean!
You will never regret your purchase.
Can you say where you found one for 5800.00?????
I was under the impression they couldn't be had from Andrewski/Recon for less than 6800.00 or 6900.00 now.

[MuzzleFlash]

Any gunnie that owns a Land Rover just HAS to have a Sterling to go with!

Congrats RD! Life is good! :cool

[L34A1]

Originally posted by John C
That's a nice setup. Since the L2A3 doesn't have the removeable muzzle cap a similar setup wouldn't be so EZ to make. Hmmmm, I have an idea. I'd like to keep this topic going until someone comes up with something for all of us.

John C.

The L2A3 nose cap could be machined down to copy the MK6. Then a fake cap could be made from a parts kit. Just as they did with the original Patchett. (page 67 from Guns of Dagenham)

[RoverDave]

Yes, it's a perfect match for the Land Rover.

Leroy, I bought it from an individual that decided he wanted to free up some cash for other toys. Unfortunately he only had one.

[drw]

congrats RD! Glad to see that deal,,, should transfer by the next gathering in Vegas?

[stymie]

Call me now for your free readin'... !

GOOD one, RD

Sometimes da planets be in alignment...
sometimes dey don't

:)

[M60joe]

Originally posted by RoverDave
+1

You bastards pushed me over the edge. I closed the deal on one today. A DLO/Andrewski Sterling in like new condition with 6 mags for $5800. How could I say no?

:D

[Kelly Powell]

I know the Andrewski guns are beautiful, but I got a chance at a smoking deal on a Don Quinnell Mk IV Sterling in new condition a couple of months ago. I bought it for less than 60% of what the new Andrewski guns are going for, so I couldn't turn it down. I have sworn this will be my last subgun, but I'm sure my resolve won't last. I got a chance to check out the Sterling yesterday at my Class 3 dealer, it looks great. I can't wait to take it home.

[RoverDave]

Welcome to the club - the club of waiting for paperwork.

Sounds like you got a great deal!

[Vegas SMG]

Welcome Kelly! If you go back and read some of the old posts here you'll see mention of the Quinell built Sterlings. I had a chance to do a side by side comparison at one of our matches and Don's Sterling had a few small details that were pleasing to the eye. He had painted in the numbers and markings on the barrel with white paint which was visable through the vents in the tube... a small thing for sure, but it looked nice. His finish was a little grayer and duller than the Andrewski gun, but otherwise appeared to be just as expertly applied. IIRC, the Quinell built Sterling had the crackle finish applied OVER the DLO serial number on the left side of the tube where as Andrewski leaves a small oval area unfinished, (no crackle), on his builds. Is your DLO serial number also covered as this example was?

[az paul]

Welcome aboard, Kelly. Great deal!! No, your resolve won't last. We all go through the same scenario every time. Let's face it folks, we have an addiction here.

[Leroy]

OK, Just when I thought that I've seen it all!

Rover Dave, you got a deal, and here is why.

I have been following the auction on AA for a Sterling by Don Quinell that has been reposting now for a looooooong time.

Kept reposting for the same 5K everytime, and never a bid.

Just checked tonight, HE HAS RAISED IT TO 6K!!!

Maybe he really doesn't want to sell it, who knows?

I called after he first posted it and tried to get him to eat the shipping at 5K, he would not budge over something like 64.10 insured shipping.

I suppose I messed up now that I hadn't bid at the 5K price.

Just plain weird if you ask me.

Sorry, but I had to rant

:argue

[Mario_FAMO,Inc]

Originally posted by Vegas SMG
Anyone know of or actually seen a registered tube by anyone OTHER than DLO?

The paperwork on my Andrewski built Sterling is for a MK-IV Wilson tube.

I won't take delivery of the gun for a couple of months yet but I really am looking forward to it. The little that I shot it last Saturday left me real impressed with it. I took it in as part of a trade and almost pre-sold it before transfer to my dealer... THAT would have been a mistake.

Mine came with seven mags. Five are the commercial type like in the PS Arms pics above and the other two are surplus looking mags marked "L1A2" and "F59". Does anyone know where these surplus mags were made?

With this board up and running I now have three reasons to come to these boards... my Sterling, Uzi and Mini Uzi.

Good work and thanks to cookie and RoverDave!
Mario

[Leroy]

CONGRATS! Mario_FAMO,Inc

Welcome to the club.
You say it is on a Wilson tube.
Will it have the thin or wide slot for the cocking handle?

As I understand it, all Wilson tubes were of the wide cocking handle slot. This meaning the slot that the cocking or chargeing handle reciprocates is wider than the DLO tubes.

You will never regret the purchase once you run your first mag.

[ELVIS]

Shot a Sterling last night for first time.......WOW! damn I have got to get one like NOW. Wayyyy better than my Vector Uzi....Nice and smooth...easy as crap to shoot..What a gun!Guess I will sell my Mini Uzis...get a couple Sterlings

[RoverDave]

Originally posted by Mario_FAMO,Inc
The paperwork on my Andrewski built Sterling is for a MK-IV Wilson tube.

I won't take delivery of the gun for a couple of months yet but I really am looking forward to it. The little that I shot it last Saturday left me real impressed with it. I took it in as part of a trade and almost pre-sold it before transfer to my dealer... THAT would have been a mistake.

Mine came with seven mags. Five are the commercial type like in the PS Arms pics above and the other two are surplus looking mags marked "L1A2" and "F59". Does anyone know where these surplus mags were made?

With this board up and running I now have three reasons to come to these boards... my Sterling, Uzi and Mini Uzi.

Good work and thanks to cookie and RoverDave!
Mario

Congrats Mario. I'm waiting for Sterling paperwork too. This place should get even busier when we all start getting our paperwork approved.

[Mario_FAMO,Inc]

Originally posted by Leroy
CONGRATS! Mario_FAMO,Inc

Welcome to the club.
You say it is on a Wilson tube.
Will it have the thin or wide slot for the cocking handle?

As I understand it, all Wilson tubes were of the wide cocking handle slot. This meaning the slot that the cocking or chargeing handle reciprocates is wider than the DLO tubes.

You will never regret the purchase once you run your first mag.

Leroy-
It has the narrow slot. It is a superb build. I don't know how he does it but John Andrewski puts them together without a weld seam showing anywhere. I shot about six mags through it and loved every one.

Dave-
It's so weird how I wasn't looking for a Sterling and then I got it in a trade, looking to dump it for cash. I actually had a buyer interested. Now you couldn't pry it from me!

Mario

[Leroy]

Thanks Mario,

I'm thinking of sending mine in for the weld up of the cocking slot.
Cost is around 400.00 for the job with refinish, plus shipping.
It really doesn't effect MY shooting, but when it comes time to resale it, nobody seems to want one with the wider Sten slot.
Then last one I bought is was reported to be a Don Quinell build and is a Wilson tube also, I think I may be the second owner to shoot it, but the third hands to have been on it.
Shoots and functions so well you can write your name with it.
A real caddilac of an SMG.
Ken Sykes built my first Sterling MK 4, beautiful job and back then the Crackle finish was done with the original Sterling paint.
Ken passed away in the late 90's of old age, but was a genius at mfg anything. He ran Kenfix Co. in FL where he cranked out all kinds of exotic's. The amount of NFA at auction was tremendous.
I have a Sten in transfer right now, but I think I will secure a kit and keep it Sten for the time being and shoot it in the "classic" events. Haven't seen it but it went pending and is supposed to be a real nice clean weld job from Ordco of Santa Clara CA.
IMA also came through with some more bronze bolts, I may get one and see what difference it makes in the cyclic rate for competition in classic. Would be nice though to have something Sterling that is a little different from origin than all others, as I haven't seen any made from Ordco tubes.
Bet I will though, I may eat those words as many are rummored to be haveing stens converted as we speak.
several class 3 dealers have told me they were buying and selling like hotcakes and they were leaving out to people who were haveing the conversions done. Hard telling what Sten origins they had, as they were so very cheap to fabricate back when prior to 86. Andrewski must be backed up to get onto a waiting list for conversion by now.
I missed the bid on one that was on Auction Arms earlier this year with no reserve for 2400.00 bucks! Went for something like 2405.00 and I passed. The welds were very ugly though, which makes it harder to work with when converting to Sterling.
Still, I live with regret, as I could have sent that one out and kept the one I have pending. I would have had 3200.00 wrapped up in an Andrewski build, whereas I spent 3200.00 for this Ordco Sten. Oh Well

:(

[MuzzleFlash]

I was under the impression thet ATF did not allow weld up of the cocking slot to reduce width. For some reason, they got really anal about this.

[John C]

The ATF letter allowing the conversion using Sten tubes says either the Sten bolt has to be used (in the Sten 50 degree slot) or the Sterling charging handle (normally 60 degrees) has to be modified to run in the Sten slot. It doesn't say the C2 can rework the slot, but it doesn't say he can't. The reason for the requirement was to allow the ATf to determine if the tube was a Sten or a Sterling. The article in SAR covers this too.

From the Stenlings I've seen, the charging handle is cut and rewelded to run in the Sten slot. Personally, the revised charging handle looks like s*** compared to using an uncut charging handle in a correct Sterling slot. But hey, I'm not opinionated :o).

John C.

[Leroy]

Correct about the angle, that is why many will leave noticable welds on the inside that can be seen.
I heard once of a job done so well that the ATF took it and had it X-Rayed for welds because of the suspicion that it was simply ser. numbers swapped to another tube instead of one welded up.
The owner didn't get it back for almost a year.
I guess they had found it to be on the up and up shortly after taking it, but tied up the return for too long of a time.
You really want the welds to be visable from the inside(moral of the story).

[Vegas SMG]

This three year old thread was too good not to kick back up to the top!

[Commander bond]

Has anybody ever notice the similarities between the German Mg 34 and a sterling. What came first the chicken or the egg. same grip angle, same ventilated barrel jacket, same side feed. I think in the MG34 is the father and a sterling might be the son. A little bit like poppa bear and baby bear.

[MuzzleFlash]

Has anybody ever notice the similarities between the German Mg 34 and a sterling. What came first the chicken or the egg. same grip angle, same ventilated barrel jacket, same side feed. I think in the MG34 is the father and a sterling might be the son. A little bit like poppa bear and baby bear.
This MG34? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maschinengewehr_34

The early Sterlings borrowed some design and parts from the Lancaster which, in turn, nakedly stole from the MP18 and MP28. There is a connection going back to the German machinepistols.