Sterling Importers & Numbering

[Junkcollector]

I have been researching Sterling importers and their numbering system. Near as I can tell there were 3 importers
1st - Lanchester of Texas
2nd - Armscorp of Maryland
3rd - Cassi of Colorado
It seems as they started serial numbers at zero with each change of importers. What I don't know is if they used a different prefix for carbines vs Pistols.
I know Lanchester used SA prefix for MK6 carbines don't know about MK7 Pistols.
I know Armscorp used 7AA prefix for MK7 pistols don't Know about MK6 Carbines.
I know Cassi used SA prefix for MK6 Carbines don't know about MK7 Pistols.
I would like others with Dagenham imported Sterlings to post the prefix of their Sterlings. The other thing is if the same prefix was used for MK6s and MK7s, were the numbers intermixed or did the carbines start at zero and pistols start at zero with the same prefix.

 

[Junkcollector]

Some serial numbers I have collected
SA01-- Lanchester
7AA000- Armscorp
SA002- Cassi

 

[Krinkovliu]

Hi:

The magazine well of my Mark 6 looks like the third photograph which you state indicates Cassi; my serial number is 002X. However, the stamping on the receiver is identical to the second photograph and states Armscorp.

I imported a Mark 7 directly from a gun store in England using an ATF Form 6 so it does not have any import stamping.

Hope this helps.

 

[Junkcollector]

I think that indicates that each importer starts a new set of numbers, using SA prefix for all MK 6. From seeing others for sale it looks as if Lanchester used SA prefix for both MK6 and MK7. Armscorp used 7AA prefix for MK 7 pistols. I have not found the prefix for Cassi MK 7 pistols.

 

[Scabby Jack]

I have now seen Cassi Imported Mk6's with two styles of serial numbers. SA0XXX and 6AA00XX. This just muddies the water. The SA marked one has a S/N in the 700 range btw.

 

[Traveler]

Parker Arms of Dallas was also an importer. I am pretty sure they were the first. I don’t know how many guns Parker Arms imported. Their Mk6 carbines have an “SA” prefix. Roma Skinner left Parker Arms and started Lanchester USA.

Armalite, of Costa Messa, CA also imported some Sterling guns. Best I can tell it was only a small number.

My Lanchester imported Mk7C pistol has a “SA” prefix.

My Cassi Mk7C has a “7AA” prefix.

The original Mk6 prefix was only an “S”. You will see some guns where the “A” was added later and is not aligned or spaced as neatly as other “SA” marked guns. The “A” seems to only have been added to guns exported to the US.

 

[Traveler]

 

[Scabby Jack]

Note the different S/N configuration and application of importer markings for what I would surmise is an early Cassi import

 

[ferndog1]

Sterling article

https://www.smallarmsreview.com/display.article.cfm?idarticles=4164

 

[CAR]

I own a Parker Arms imported Mk6. Serial is SA 008x date code on the bolt is S85 which indicates 1985 manufacture I believe. I will get some pictures posted.