Sterling Submachine Guns

The 9mm Sterling sub machinegun is the most reliable SMG in the world. Designed and produced in the United Kingdom, it was torture tested in trials of mud, sand and even frozen in ice. In these tests the Sterling out performed the H&K MP-5 and even the robust UZI, making it the king of the SMG’s when it comes to reliability. It was used all around the world in various wars and British territories and was discontinued only because of politics and the high cost of manufacture. In addition to being very reliable it is also extremely controllable and accurate, as you will see as we fire these guns in semi and full auto.

Instructed by Master Armorer John D. Bush, in this course you will learn how to completely disassemble the gun down to its smallest parts, the equally important complete reassembly, along with trouble shooting and repairs. The mechanism of the super reliable roller follower magazine is shown, along with rare factory manuals and accessories.

If you want the “quick” course on how to get the Sterling Submachine Gun apart, back together, and operating as intended, then this course is for you (if you want the “long course”, look into our basic 108 hour Professional Gunsmith course).
Among the items covered are:

• John gives us a complete history of the Sterling submachine gun and shows us several patent drawings that were submitted by the inventor, George W. Patchett
• Through use of various printed manuals, we are shown pictures and illustrations of the firearm, including the original manual from 1943
• British adopted the Sterling as the Mk IV (Mark 4)
• Government and politics brought about the demise of this firearm

• Muzzle end features are explained, including front sight and bayonet lug
• Finger protectors are shown (so you would not shoot your hand or get caught in the bolt)
• The magazine well and controls are discussed
• Folding stock is demonstrated
• Shroud and barrel details are shown
• The magazine and its variations are shown
• Trigger pack and selector are demonstrated
• Back end features, including rear sight, sling swivel and stock release are shown
• Ammunition feeding is demonstrated
• Open bolt operation is demonstrated in full and semi auto
• Spiral ridges on the bolt are shown, which acts as a debris remover and reduces friction
• The ejector is shown
• John demonstrates how the trigger pack can be taken out of the gun with a standard 9 mm round

• John’s description of the function of various parts continues as the firearm is disassembled
• End cap removal is demonstrated
• Bolt is removed from the receiver
• Extractor, plunger and spring are taken out of the bolt
• Ejector and magazine catch removal
• Function of the ejector is demonstrated
• Trigger pack removal and operation explained.
• Extreme close ups of the sear in working position are shown
• Pulling the barrel is demonstrated
• Pistol grip removal is shown
• Front sight disassembly is explained
• Front trunion details are shown and discussed
• Various gun markings are explained
• Trigger pack disassembly is demonstrated and the function of its parts are explained

• AGI cleaning & lubrication methods shown, along with the reasons for their use
• After cleaning, dry with air gun, or in the oven on Warm ~185-200 degrees (metal parts ONLY)
• John lubricates using the “AGI method”

• Before reassembling, we get a unique opportunity to see how to remove a bullet that was stuck in the barrel (caused by a “squib” round)
• Barrel installation is demonstrated
• Bolt is reassembled and installed into the receiver
• Trigger pack is reassembled and its function is demonstrated
• Pistol grip is put back onto the receiver
• Trigger pack is installed into the firearm
• Ejector and the magazine catch are reassembled
• John checks the weapon for safe operation

• Front sight adjusting tool is demonstrated
• Various types of slings are shown and attached to the firearm
• Different types of magazines are shown and discussed
• Spare parts are discussed
• John shows us a closed bolt model of the Sterling and its differences from the open bolt models
• Next we get to see John at the range firing the weapon in semi and full auto modes

• John explains the differences between British, Canadian and Indian made guns
• We are shown a schematic chart of a silenced version of the Sterling Submachine Gun

If you noticed how often the terms “explanation”, and “demonstration” are used, you may be getting some idea of why this course is a “must have” for any Sterling Submachine Gun owner, or someone who intends to be.