This Old Gun: L2A3 Sterling SMG

Published on May 20, 2020
Duration: 4:06

The L2A3 Sterling SMG, developed by George Patchett, replaced the Sten gun with a lighter design and slower rate of fire. It featured a unique curved magazine with roller followers, a folding stock, and a double mainspring system for improved accuracy. The 9mm Sterling served British forces for nearly 40 years, proving reliable in conflicts like the Falklands War.

Quick Summary

The L2A3 Sterling SMG, developed by George Patchett, replaced the Sten gun with a lighter design and slower rate of fire. It featured a unique curved magazine with roller followers, a folding stock, and a double mainspring system for improved accuracy. The 9mm Sterling served British forces for nearly 40 years.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Sterling SMG
  2. 00:35Post-War Adoption & Magazine Design
  3. 01:30Key Design Features: Folding Stock & Bolt
  4. 02:52Service History & Legacy: Falklands War

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the primary reason for developing the Sterling SMG?

The Sterling SMG was developed after World War II to meet a British military requirement for a lighter submachine gun with a slower rate of fire compared to the existing Sten gun, aiming for improved controllability and efficiency.

What were the key technical innovations of the Sterling SMG?

Key innovations included a new magazine design with roller followers for reliable feeding, a double mainspring system for a smaller bolt mass and better accuracy, and a bolt with helical grooves to clear fouling.

How long did the Sterling SMG serve with British forces?

The 9mm Sterling SMG served with British troops for nearly four decades, proving its reliability and effectiveness through various conflicts, including the Falklands War and the Gulf War.

Who designed the Sterling SMG?

The Sterling submachine gun was primarily developed by George Patchett, the chief designer for the Sterling Armaments Company, initially as the Patchett machine carbine.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from NRApubs

View all →