The Sten MkI had barely been approved for production when the Sten MkII was born. Initially requested to produce a version of the gun suitable for paratroopers, in March 1941 Harold Turpin redesigned the front end of the Sten to have a quickly detachable barrel and a rotating magazine well (for compact storage). This new model was tests in late June and early July, approved for use, and contracts for it were issued in August 1941.
Named the MkII, this model of the Sten would quickly become the standard, and it was ultimately produced by six major factories (with the assistance of hundreds of subcontractors) on three continents to the tune of 2.6 million examples made. In addition to the barrel removal, the new model has a simpler front sight, simpler stock, and a revised bolt locking notch (upward, instead of downward like on the MkI).
Basically a tube with a feed ramp and a firing bolt.... can't get simpler than that
ReplyDeleteJD
Great vid. There's always more to learn about the Sten. Ian McCollum is great.
ReplyDeleteBack in the late 70's in HS metal shop class everybody had a different product to make. Once our projects were complete we watched our shop teacher assemble everything to make a Sten version 1 in 9mm. After everybody had a turn shooting it he cut it up with a torch.
ReplyDeleteNow that was a cool teacher. Wish I'd known him.
DeleteSecond what TwoDogs said.
DeleteWatched this last week. Between Ian McCollum and Hickock45, I’ve learned how little I actually know about guns, compared to real experts.
ReplyDelete2.6 Million made, and try finding one today.
ReplyDeleteWould you sell yours?
DeleteCheers
Thor
Thor, if I had one in these and times days, "Hell, no!"
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