ARTV Video: British Sten Machine Carbine

by
posted on December 3, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
The Sten gun was Britain’s answer to a serious shortage of arms at the time of the Battle of Britain. As a response to the shortage, they came up with a submachine gun that ultimately carried the British all the way through World War II. The Sten gun is an example of what can be done in a hurry with relatively common tools and primitive materials, and still produce effective weapons if one is willing to put quality where it's needed. The gun proved to be extremely reliable, with tens of thousands of them being dropped to troops from the air into occupied Europe.

Learn more about the British Sten Machine Carbine in the “I Have This Old Gun” segment from a recent episode of American Rifelman TV.

Latest

World War I-era Berthier M16 carbine
World War I-era Berthier M16 carbine

Taking It Home: War Trophies in American History

From our founding to the more recent past, war-trophy firearms have played a significant role in arming American citizens.

Questions & Answers: Patterning with the Poly Choke

I bought a Remington 1100 LW 20-gauge shotgun for my wife to shoot clay targets (informally) and sometimes hunt with me when I go hunting for waterfowl.

Meprolight Offers Free Suppressor With Optic Purchase

Readers have only until July 31, 2026, to purchase a qualifying Meprolight optic and be eligible to receive a rebate for a free Backdraft Hunter suppressor in a caliber of their choosing.

Gun Locker: Wilson Combat eXperior Elite

Wilson Combat continues its fine tradition of making excellent guns even better with its new eXperior Elite design.

The Sako 90 Grizzly: Modernity Meets Tradition

Hunting remains a largely traditional activity, and some of us just like the feel of a nice wood stock. For those purists among us, Sako has introduced its new-for-2026 Grizzly.

The Armed Citizen® July 13, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.