British Sterling SMG, The REAL Storm Trooper Rifle!!!

Published on March 24, 2022
Duration: 9:06

This review of the British Sterling 9mm SMG, a semi-automatic conversion, highlights its historical significance as an improvement over the Sten gun and its iconic status as the basis for the Star Wars Stormtrooper rifle. The firearm is praised for its exceptionally soft recoil, reliable feeding, and unique ergonomics, particularly the side-mounted magazine which can be beneficial for left-handed shooters and prone positions. While comfortable to shoot, the helmet worn during testing proved uncomfortable.

Quick Summary

The British Sterling 9mm SMG, a semi-automatic conversion, is renowned for its exceptionally soft recoil, often described as 'literally no recoil,' due to its straight blowback operation and soft spring action. It also served as the basis for the iconic Star Wars Stormtrooper E-11 blaster rifle.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Gun ID: British Sterling SMG
  2. 00:24Sterling SMG History: Post-WWII Design
  3. 00:52Design Features: Side Mag & Closed Bolt
  4. 01:27Excitement for Shooting
  5. 01:40First Shots & Ergonomics (Left-Handed)
  6. 01:58Star Wars Connection: Stormtrooper Rifle
  7. 02:25Recoil Assessment: Extremely Soft
  8. 03:00Helmet Discomfort
  9. 03:30'Street Sweeper' Mode (Hip Firing)
  10. 03:49Design and Controls: Straight Blowback
  11. 04:05Folding Stock & Stormtrooper Look
  12. 04:46Post-Shooting Impressions
  13. 05:17Banana Pudding Test (Hollow Points)
  14. 05:36Pudding Destruction & Reliability
  15. 06:57Watermelon Test Targets
  16. 07:39Prone Shooting & Side Mag Awkwardness
  17. 08:26Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Sterling SMG a 'Stormtrooper rifle'?

The Sterling SMG's distinctive design, particularly its shape and proportions, made it an ideal candidate for modification into the iconic E-11 blaster rifle used by Stormtroopers in the Star Wars films. This visual resemblance has earned it the nickname 'Stormtrooper rifle in real life'.

How does the Sterling SMG compare to the Sten gun?

The Sterling SMG was designed after WWII to address the problematic aspects of the British Sten gun. It is known for being more durable and reliable, serving in the British military for 30-40 years, a testament to its improved design over the Sten.

What is the felt recoil like when shooting the Sterling SMG?

The felt recoil of the Sterling SMG is exceptionally soft, often described as 'extremely soft' and 'literally no recoil.' This is due to its straight blowback operation and a very soft spring action, making it one of the most comfortable 9mm firearms to shoot.

Are there any ergonomic advantages to the Sterling SMG's side-mounted magazine?

Yes, the side-mounted magazine can be an ergonomic advantage, especially for left-handed shooters as it keeps brass ejection away from their face. It also presents unique handling possibilities for prone shooting or in confined spaces like trenches.

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