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View Full Version : ••• SOCAL STEN Semi-auto Build Party • 2010 •••


REDHORSE
05-20-2009, 6:43 PM
Several SOCAL CG.net forum members have the itch to build some semi-auto STENs. So, I'm organizing a SOCAL STEN build party.

If you think you'll be ready by the May 2010 time frame with getting your: STEN parts kit, reduced diameter STEN tube, and semi-auto bolt conversion kit and want to sign up for the STEN BP post a response.

If your interested and you can meet the deadline, please post a response. Let me know if you have your kit, if it is de-milled or not, if you have a reduced diameter tube receiver, and if you have your semi-auto bolt.

Interested parties:


Caiman (Mk II kit, demilled)
GameAPBT (FINISHED)
justinLB (Mk III kit)
REDHORSE (FINISHED)
nick - interested
blackberg - (Mk III kit, IO: tube, semi kit onhand!)
mrlonewolf - interested BP
submaniac - interested
Mac Attack - interested BP
bigthaiboy (Mk III kit)
nwnguy - interested BP
KRS Juan - interested BP
Billsail (parts kit on order)
LtMike70 (Mk III kit/ demilled, IO: tube onhand!)
sen24 (kit)

If you don't have your reduced diameter semi-auto STEN tube, semi-auto bolt/ kit, 16" STEN barrel, you may want to hold off for a few days. We are trying to work on a group buy, to see if we can save some money. We will have more info in the next few days. Sorry, Indianapolis Ordnance replied to our email = NO Group Buy option.


More info/ updates to come...

REDHORSE
05-20-2009, 6:44 PM
save for future postings

REDHORSE
05-20-2009, 6:46 PM
save this post for future postings also

justinLB
05-20-2009, 6:51 PM
waiting for results on group buy

CSACANNONEER
05-20-2009, 6:52 PM
waiting for results on group buy

Me too.

nick
05-20-2009, 7:13 PM
Me three.

blackberg
05-20-2009, 7:45 PM
Bout time :D

jk,

Im in,

Interested in GB,

what part of July where you thinking, was planning on going out of town but no firm plans yet

-bb

mrlonewolf
05-20-2009, 7:46 PM
waiting for results on group buy

Group buy........:drool5:

5968
05-20-2009, 8:27 PM
I too am interested in the group buy. If the price is right, I will probably jump in.

submaniac
05-20-2009, 9:01 PM
OK. I'm gonna go in on this. Lemme know what happens with the group buy. I will snag a sten kit. Does it matter which "Mark" it is? "Mark I, Mark II, Mark III", etc.? Thanks.

Santa Cruz Armory
05-20-2009, 9:17 PM
I have a MKIII kit but need to get the semi stuff. Let me know if a GB is gonna happen. I'm very interested! I most likely can't make the build party but would still get a semi kit if the price is right.

REDHORSE
05-20-2009, 9:28 PM
Mark II are easier to build, but the parts kits are much more expensive (2X) than a Mark III.

When buying a kit, you have to pay particular attention on how it was chopped up/ demilled.



Check trigger group to see if the chop saw cut into the trigger group. If the cut is too deep, there could be damage to the trigger assembly. See justinlb thread for an example. No big deal, as the cut can be welded up.
Check to see if the "tabs" were cut off when the kit was chopped/ torched. Intact tabs are a plus, but not big deal to some. Just depends if you to building an authentic looking STEN with tabs. Some just weld the trigger group to the tube receiver or even reconstruct the tabs with sheet metal.
There are two types of sear. Most common is a stamped sheet metal sear, then there is a milled sear. Milled sear is more desirable, but it works all the same.
Bronze bolt is desirable to some, as it easier to machine into a semi-auto bolt.

GameAPBT
05-20-2009, 10:18 PM
I just emailed IO asking for group buy. Keep your fingers crossed.

Mac Attack
05-20-2009, 10:38 PM
Seeing that I have a dozen Sten Mags from a 9mm AR upper I had and sold back in the early 90's I might as well put them to good use and build myself a semi sten.

I look forward to hearing about the group buy on parts kits and semi bolts.

bigthaiboy
05-20-2009, 10:39 PM
I would be interested in attending the BP too. I have a Mk3 kit.

nwnguy
05-20-2009, 11:34 PM
Interested in this and the gb on the kits. And no parts kit yet either.

Futurecollector
05-21-2009, 12:03 AM
Im interested pending more info!!!

CSACANNONEER
05-21-2009, 9:29 AM
I'm also interested if there are any plans out there to convert the existing FA bolt to semi only use. Also if some of the attendies have MKIII kits, I can show you how to demill them. They are a bit trickier in the front. The pins lock into the barrel.


Those interested can take an hour or two from the June AK build party to demill our sten kits if you're willing to help us then.

AaronHorrocks
05-21-2009, 9:32 AM
I have a Sten kit or two. Litterally, I don't know how many I have.! :rolleyes:

I'm down for the group buy on the "reduced diameter semi-auto STEN tube, semi-auto bolt/ kit, 16" STEN barrel". I'll need one or two. Don't know if I can attend the BP though.

KRS Juan
05-21-2009, 10:03 AM
I'm interested for sure! I have no parts or experience, any rough idea's of what it would cost? Under $500? Under $1000?
-KRS Juan-

CSACANNONEER
05-21-2009, 10:08 AM
Yes, I can help. I'll have to bring my drill press. Anyone near the westside that will be attending that has a MKIII that is not demilled? I can see about making a picture tutorial on the front end portion.

I've got a 1/2" floor model drill press so, unless you have a special jig set up for your's, don't waste your energy lugging your drill press all the way here.

REDHORSE
05-21-2009, 8:01 PM
I'm interested for sure! I have no parts or experience, any rough idea's of what it would cost? Under $500? Under $1000?
-KRS Juan-



Mk III parts kit ~$169 (link (http://www.copesdistributing.net/product_info.php?cPath=49&products_id=1270), GunBroker, or here in the Marketplace)
Semi auto reduced diameter tube (0%-80%) = ~$30 - $120
Semi auto bolt and conversion parts = $250
New 16" STEN barrel (optional) = $95


Semi-auto conversion kit comes with a barrel extension tube (welded to barrel), to lengthen factory barrel to 16"+. So, new 16" barrel isn't mandatory.

Sorry, Indianapolis Ordnance replied to our email = NO Group Buy option.

Billsail
05-22-2009, 8:00 AM
I've always wanted a Sten and have a parts kit on order. Pls help me with info on tube purchase. Also the difference between reduced tube and ??
Thanks

submaniac
05-22-2009, 5:27 PM
Sorry, Indianapolis Ordnance replied to our email = NO Group Buy option.

:fud:

nick
05-22-2009, 9:21 PM
:fud:

Eh? :confused:

crob241
05-22-2009, 10:49 PM
Some sources for sten parts..www.stenparts.com............www.hellboxarm ory.com............www.prexis/sten
www.gunbuilds.com..........www.lscmanufacturing.co m
These either have parts for SA stens, complete kits, info and the prexis/sten forum has many completed builds of various models, lots of good info, hope this helps

REDHORSE
05-23-2009, 4:15 PM
:fud:

?? same here.

I have some tubes and semi-auto STEN parts on order from him. He just doesn't have group buy discounted prices.

If you want his stuff, you have to pay the prices on his website.

GameAPBT
05-24-2009, 3:45 PM
The price hurts... but it hurts once...

CaptMike
05-24-2009, 7:21 PM
Im in if I can get the reduced diameter tube. I have a MKII kit that I demilled 10 years ago and I would love to start putting it together. thanks for setting this up.

Futurecollector
06-10-2009, 6:20 PM
Oh man I would love to do this!!!

REDHORSE
06-10-2009, 6:30 PM
My Indianapolis Ordnance semi-auto receiver tube, barrel, and semi-auto bolt came in last week. I'll post some pictures of it soon.

Caimen was nice enough to demill my STEN Mk III. He took pictures and wrote a step by step process on demilling a STEN parts kit.

I got the full text and pictures yesterday. I'm just formatting it right now and will have the rest of it hosted on my website by maybe this weekend. It's freaking 50+ pages in MS Word. I've only got the first 5 pages formatted on my website, so check back and I should have more online.

Demilling a STEN: Step #1 "Magwell" (by Caimen) (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/sten_demil_part1.htm)<== page done
Demilling a STEN: Step #2 "Barrel & Trunions" (by Caimen) (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/sten_demil_part2.htm)<== page done
Demilling a STEN: Step #3 "Trigger Housing"(by Caimen) (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/sten_demil_part3.htm)<== page done

blackberg
06-10-2009, 7:12 PM
My Indianapolis Ordnance semi-auto receiver tube, barrel, and semi-auto bolt came in last week. I'll post some pictures of it soon.

Caimen was nice enough to demill my STEN Mk III. He took pictures and wrote a step by step process on demilling a STEN parts kit.

I got the full text and pictures yesterday. I'm just formatting it right now and will have the rest of it hosted on my website by maybe this weekend. It's freaking 50+ pages in MS Word. I've only got the first 5 pages formatted on my website, so check back and I should have more online.

Demilling a STEN: Step #1 "Magwell" (by Caimen) (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/sten_demil_part1.htm)

dude, "save as HTML",


jk, that thing sucks,

I completely forgot to order my stuff,

have to start looking for stuff

-bb

CSACANNONEER
06-10-2009, 7:32 PM
Unless things change, I'm going to have to bow out of this for now. I've just got too much going on.

justinLB
06-11-2009, 6:13 AM
What style tube is everyone going for plain, original or vented?

REDHORSE
06-11-2009, 9:20 PM
I went with the original style with sight rail.

GameAPBT went with a vented tube, no sight rail.

GameAPBT
06-13-2009, 10:13 PM
This .1" piece is going to be hard to mill out. An end mill this small working against 4130 is gonna be a nightmare....

http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/sten001.jpg

REDHORSE
06-13-2009, 11:19 PM
This .1" piece is going to be hard to mill out. An end mill this small working against 4130 is gonna be a nightmare....




I said the same thing, but Caimen said it won't be a problem.

ke6guj
06-13-2009, 11:30 PM
I'd probably take multiple passes at it, <.050" per pass. Shouldn't be a major problem.

Or use a slitting saw if one is availale.

GameAPBT
06-14-2009, 12:15 AM
i didn't think of that....Thanks.

CSACANNONEER
06-14-2009, 12:17 AM
Just a suggestion, could you do it with a 3" cut-off wheel in an airtool?

thefifthspeed
06-14-2009, 12:40 AM
For those who have bought or are going to buy the Indy Ord Bolts they seem to have problems striking. If any of you can figure out what the problem is please let me know as mine doesn't strike. I've tried swaping the spring on the firing pin and bumping up the spring tension on the tube springs but nothing works.

Indy Ordinance makes great stuff but there are some small things you need to work out.

REDHORSE
06-14-2009, 9:21 AM
I did notice that the AR15 firing pin does not stick out that much from the rear of the bolt.

The tip of the firing pin is about 1.3mm below the bolt face on my bolt.

Firing pin has to travel a bit to protrude past the bolt face to strike the primer, firing pin would have to be recessed into the bolt to go that far. I figured that the striker is going to have hit the firing pin with enough inertia to fight the firing pin spring and travel far enough to strike the primer.

I thought that if this was going to be a problem, then there is a couple things we can do to help with a more positive firing pin strike.



Play around with the firing fin spring (cut some of it off) and strengthen the striker spring (heavier spring, or a hollow spacer behind striker to increase spring rate).
Recontour the striker, so that the part of the striker goes into the firing pin hole. As it stands the large flat surface stops flush when it strikes the bolt.
Add weight to the striker to give more inertia, when it strikes the firing pin.
Mill a new striker or modify the existing striker.

Modified striker idea:
Use a 3/8 ball mill to cut a channel onto the top of the striker. Then take 3/8 steel round stock and pin & weld it to the striker.
Contour the front of the 3/8 round stock so that it will strike the firing pin and not strike the bolt. It should only stick out in front of the striker about ~3mm.
The added weight/mass will also help. This will focus all the inertia against the firing pin. Hardened the round stock before welding it on.
Part of the top of the round stock may have to be milled down to clear the bolt (not illustrated). It has to sit as high to be centered onto the firing pin.

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/6493/iomodstriker.jpg

GameAPBT
06-15-2009, 8:26 AM
Just a suggestion, could you do it with a 3" cut-off wheel in an airtool?


tooo iffy for me, my hands shake alittle.

GameAPBT
06-16-2009, 8:08 AM
does anyone have a spare template, I sratched mine up......

blackberg
06-16-2009, 10:46 AM
****, still havent ordered, which tube are you guys getting?, kind of like the vented one, does it matter?

-bb

REDHORSE
06-16-2009, 6:10 PM
does anyone have a spare template, I sratched mine up......

I haven't done any work to mine yet. I will trace over mine, before doing any work, for future references. ;):D

I would center punch all the corners first and then scribe lines to the marks (for the cut out parts), just in case the template tears.

mrlonewolf
06-16-2009, 6:33 PM
Save the templates.
Go to kinkos and use the big blueprint copier, 1:1 ratio, but.
HEADS UP.... we are going to loose about 5/64" from the original to the copy, why???? IDK, maybe the scanner at my local Kinkos was off, or the line definition whit that big A*** printer is off, or maybe booth are a piece of junk,who knows.
I'll try another place and IWLYGK

blackberg
06-16-2009, 8:51 PM
how big is the sheet?
I have an 11x17 copier at the office
-bb

REDHORSE
06-16-2009, 9:21 PM
The template is already glued to the tube receiver, I'll just trace over it with tracing paper then photo copy it.

This template would be specific to the IO semi bolt and conversion kit only.

I'll have pics of the IO kit shortly.

REDHORSE
06-16-2009, 10:54 PM
My web server is down for maintenance, so I wasn't able to upload the pictures and web page. Here are some pics:

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/2082/sten02.th.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/my.php?image=sten02.jpg)



A Mk III TUBE RECEIVER WITH SIGHT RAIL (REDUCED INNER DIAMETER)
B 16" 9MM STEN BARREL
C1 SEMI-AUTO BOLT
C2 CHARGING HANDLE
C3 STRIKER
C4 AR-15 FIRING PIN
C5 FIRING PIN SPRING
C6 FIRING PIN ROLL PIN
C7 REAR BARREL TRUNNION (REDUCED DIAMETER)
C8 RECOIL SPRING
C9 STRIKER SPRING
C10 BOLT STOP
C11 RECOIL ASSEMBLY PLATE
C12 GUIDE RODS - 2 EACH
C13 RIVETS - 12 EACH
This is the original style STEN Mk III semi-auto tube. Has the sight rail like the original.

http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/2140/sten05.th.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/my.php?image=sten05.jpg)


http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/8693/sten06.th.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/my.php?image=sten06.jpg)


This picture below shows how everything works together prior to the trigger being pulled.
Sear holds back striker (under spring tension). When the trigger is pulled sear is pulled down, striker strikes the firing pin which fires the cartridge. Bolt recoils back extracting and then ejecting spent cartridge shell, tripping the dis-connector (not pictured) which resets the sear. Recoil & striker springs compresses, which then forces the bolt back into battery, bolt strips a fresh cartridge from the magazine and chambers the round, striker catches onto sear and the process is repeated when the trigger is pulled again.


http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/6179/sten14.th.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/my.php?image=sten14.jpg)

More pics of the semi bolt. It uses an AR-15 firing pin and the original STEN extractor.

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/3905/sten11.th.jpg (http://img189.imageshack.us/my.php?image=sten11.jpg)

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/8020/sten10.th.jpg (http://img189.imageshack.us/my.php?image=sten10.jpg)

GameAPBT
06-16-2009, 11:27 PM
so, how many people are getting their kits? we need a head count for the bp

blackberg
06-17-2009, 1:12 PM
just ordered my stuff, asked them if it was possible to get an extra copy of the template, let see what they say, went with the non vented since its more original to the mk3

-bb

REDHORSE
06-17-2009, 5:50 PM
How are the rivets squeezed? The original rivets are a bit squished but not by much.

They are some weird looking rivets, unlike the originals.

These have what appears to be threads like ridges (larger than shaft dia.)in the center portion of the rivets. This is what I assume grabs the tube and trunnion pretty securely.

They even state that brazing the trunnion after the rivets isn't necessary.. like what the factory did with the original STEN SMG.

I have an aircraft 2x-3x? riveting gun with a ½ dozen cupped sets. I bought it for a 1919 build. I wanted to try it at the AK BP, but no one ever took up my offer. I'll try it with the STEN.

blackberg
06-17-2009, 7:59 PM
got everything ordered,
havent even started working on the 1919 and got this going now, woot!

-bb

CSACANNONEER
06-17-2009, 8:03 PM
got everything ordered,
havent even started working on the 1919 and got this going now, woot!

-bb

That's my problem. I've got 8 different AK kits to build and a VZ58 to build before I can think about my old MKIII kits.

blackberg
06-17-2009, 8:07 PM
That's my problem. I've got 8 different AK kits to build and a VZ58 to build before I can think about my old MKIII kits.

I still have an ak to build, a very evil one, last 3 of the OG serial is 666:devil2:,
an I have to come up with an evil config to match :D,
but I have 2 of those already, so I am cool for now,

-bb

REDHORSE
06-18-2009, 6:04 AM
I was finally able to upload the pics and webpage for the IO semi-auto components: Indianapolis Ordnance Semi-auto STEN tube & conversion kit (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/io_semi_kit.htm)

GameAPBT
06-19-2009, 10:24 PM
I was finally able to upload the pics and webpage for the IO semi-auto components: Indianapolis Ordnance Semi-auto STEN tube & conversion kit (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/io_semi_kit.htm)

Cool site. did you get started yet?

REDHORSE
06-20-2009, 7:42 PM
Cool site. did you get started yet?

No, I have touched the receiver tube yet. Too busy with other things at the moment. I have July to mess around with it.

I put up another STEN page on my website. Just an overview of a STEN Mk III parts kit and what to look out for when buying one online.

http://www.webshooters.org/diy_sten_kit.htm (http://www.freewebs.com/socal_webshooters/diy_sten_kit.htm)

I've got to take a few more pictures and I will be adding more info to the pages. So, they are constantly being updated. If there is anything you guys want to add or see, let me know.

thefifthspeed
06-20-2009, 8:47 PM
I forgot to add if it helps you guys:

Use both trunnions from your sten kit and forget using the indy trunnion. IMO half of the work is already done if you use the stock trunnions. Only thing I would reccomend is turning the face down a bit to allow the clearence with the bolt.

blackberg
06-25-2009, 11:01 AM
so, I just got everything in today, I should try to finish the 1919 before I start on this I think:cool:

-bb

Neil McCauley
06-25-2009, 11:03 AM
Hmm interesting...... I will subscribe to this thread.

blackberg
06-25-2009, 11:19 AM
Hmm interesting...... I will subscribe to this thread.

You should go order everything and join us :D



-bb

CaptMike
07-12-2009, 4:52 PM
Well, I finally ordered my semi auto tube from indianapolis ordinance. they said they would ship in 48 hours. I expect to have it in hand by friday. Are we still a go on this? I have my demilled MK II kit and now the semi tube is on order.

Mac Attack
07-12-2009, 5:04 PM
I don't have a kit but would like to watch the build process if you will be accepting spectators.

REDHORSE
07-12-2009, 6:01 PM
Well, I finally ordered my semi auto tube from indianapolis ordinance. they said they would ship in 48 hours. I expect to have it in hand by friday. Are we still a go on this? I have my demilled MK II kit and now the semi tube is on order.


Cool, yes still a go.

I've fallen behind on getting the materials for the mandrel and die to make the Magazine Tabs. I'll try to get the materials this week, then I need to have it machined by someone. This is the way I want to do my build to keep it as authentic as possible.

I haven't done any work (cutting) to my tube yet. I was hoping to go in together with a friend of mine with a decent home Mill. Instead of going on with a Dremel or cut off wheel.

We still haven't set a date. Sounds like there are only 5 of us with the parts on hand to go forward with the build. I'll have to talk to the hosts and see what days would be good for us. It may fall into August?

I'll have to see about spectators. I just have to talk it over with the Host.

GameAPBT
07-12-2009, 10:34 PM
are we suppose to cut out the slot for the mag well. Mine is slotted but not squared out... and my template shows the area darken which i'm assuming needs to be cut out.

thefifthspeed
07-12-2009, 11:42 PM
are we suppose to cut out the slot for the mag well. Mine is slotted but not squared out... and my template shows the area darken which i'm assuming needs to be cut out.

Yes it needs to be cut.

Also it's a shame you all aren't up north. I could offer advise since I already knocked out a sten and a lot of tools (welder, blast cabinent, park tank etc..) if the build party was up here.

GameAPBT
07-13-2009, 7:43 AM
Thank you Fifthspeed. do you have any pics of your build?

blackberg
07-13-2009, 8:44 AM
I still have not started on mine yet, but I have everything in hand, except time :)
-bb

GameAPBT
07-13-2009, 9:15 PM
I still have not started on mine yet, but I have everything in hand, except time :)
-bb

that's what the build party is for. You'll have to dedicate time

thefifthspeed
07-16-2009, 5:54 AM
Thank you Fifthspeed. do you have any pics of your build?

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=178864

CaptMike
07-16-2009, 7:11 PM
I Received my semi auto blank receiver today. Indi ordnance has a pretty good product and quick service as promised. Well that makes me ready for the build party. Mark II kit, demilled and the semi auto blank receiver. I plan to do the hard work at the party. Cutting welding and maybe parking if that's available. Unfortunately finances don't allow me to buy the indi ordnance internals for a few months, but at least I will have the hard part done. Then later on, just do the final assembly when I can afford it. Once again, thanks again for setting this up and hope to meet you guys soon.

thefifthspeed
07-16-2009, 7:25 PM
I Received my semi auto blank receiver today. Indi ordnance has a pretty good product and quick service as promised. Well that makes me ready for the build party. Mark II kit, demilled and the semi auto blank receiver. I plan to do the hard work at the party. Cutting welding and maybe parking if that's available. Unfortunately finances don't allow me to buy the indi ordnance internals for a few months, but at least I will have the hard part done. Then later on, just do the final assembly when I can afford it. Once again, thanks again for setting this up and hope to meet you guys soon.

I might wait if I were you. Having the internals makes lining up all of the other pieces easier. When I built mine I used the bolt serveral times to check my clearence on parts like the sear and mag well.

Or... if someone else has the same parts you plan to buy see of you cant borrow that bolt when it comes times to check tolerences/clearences.

GameAPBT
07-16-2009, 10:14 PM
cool pix Fifth!
when is the BP. I'm itching to build some guns!

CaptMike
07-17-2009, 8:21 AM
Hey Fifth

Nice job on your Sten

I am planning my Sten build around the Indi Ordnance system. I think most of the attendees to the build party will be using the indi ord parts. I was planning on asking one of the others at the build party to borrow their bolt for tolerance checking. During the research i found that you need the bolt to check the alignment of the ejector before you weld the ejector. So if I could borrow the bolt while the owner is doing some other aspect of their build, then I could accomplish my goals of doing all the welding at the build party. I am pretty good with tinkering around with final assembly aspects and trouble shooting, but I absolutely do not have any welding gear. that is why that aspect will be the most improtant for me at the party. And when I am done with my welding, then I might be able to help others with their final assembly. I have been to one other build party and they are a great time with great people. I am really looking forward to this. thanks again

REDHORSE
07-25-2009, 6:44 AM
Sorry for the lack of updates. I will plan on hosting the STEN BP in August now. Just had too much to do in July to get all the things we need for the SBP ready. Hopefully this will give the guys interested more time to get their stuff for their STEN project.

The company I work for is moving to and office space 8X bigger, we're supposed to move in by the ~1st of Aug, if the first floor build out is complete. Contractors are working 7 days a week to meet the deadline. Not sure if they'll make it. So the SBP is in limbo until then. Our Dept, will have to move all our office and workspace stuff when we move, so those weekends will be shot for us.

Probably scheduled mid-August to the end of August. I will check with the Host if those days are good for him.

justinLB
07-25-2009, 8:38 AM
I'll be in santa barbara august 17-23

blackberg
07-25-2009, 1:48 PM
later august is better for me as well,

especially as I havent started the demill :o
-bb

CaptMike
07-25-2009, 2:35 PM
Later in august would work for me also. I am in yosemite from the 14 to the 23. Plus I still haven't startrd working on my tube yet. Hopefully next weekend I can get started. Thanks again redhorse

REDHORSE
07-25-2009, 6:47 PM
Sounds good to me late August looks good.

I have a friend coming back from Iraq and he wants to finish his STEN build, when he returns in August.

GameAPBT
08-09-2009, 10:30 AM
has anyone finished yet? I'm about to weld and I need to see a completed one. The test fit is good, but I just want to make sure. I'll try and post pics on what I have so far.

GameAPBT
08-11-2009, 1:12 PM
Does anyone know the distance between the mag port opening and the rear barrel bushing?

http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/th_sten039.jpg (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/?action=view&current=sten039.jpg)

GameAPBT
08-11-2009, 1:17 PM
Here is the rest

http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/th_sten035.jpg (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/?action=view&current=sten035.jpg)

Peter W Bush
08-11-2009, 1:24 PM
Wow I would love to do this. Is it too late?

GameAPBT
08-11-2009, 1:29 PM
nope, the build party has not started

thefifthspeed
08-11-2009, 1:31 PM
Does anyone know the distance between the mag port opening and the rear barrel bushing?

http://i656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/th_sten039.jpg (http://s656.photobucket.com/albums/uu284/Gameabpt/?action=view&current=sten039.jpg)

IIRC the one I did the rear bushing sat flush with the mag port but I ended up machining off a hair so the bolt face wouldn't smash the bushing. Also I would try and weld something into that opening in your stock. If you run into the wrong person they might consider that a thumbhole stock and try and get you for an AW.

GameAPBT
08-11-2009, 1:43 PM
Thanks for the heads up on the thumbhole, I will take care of it tonight.

blackberg
08-11-2009, 3:55 PM
I was thinking of the same thing reagarding the "thumbhole", although it isnt one, you know how some people are
-bb

Peter W Bush
08-11-2009, 5:10 PM
Where are people getting the parts? I would really like to build

GameAPBT
08-11-2009, 5:15 PM
I got mine from Gun broker a few months ago.

REDHORSE
08-11-2009, 6:15 PM
Parts kit from Gunbroker and the semi auto parts from www.indianapolisordnance.com (http://www.indianapolisordnance.com)

I remember reading a thread on one of the STEN Yahoo Groups that there is an ATF letter stating that the hole in the stock was not considered a thumbhole stock.

But, we also have to content with the California yahoos who may have a different opinion. I was just thing about tack welding a fender washer into that hole, so that none of my finger would fit through it.

My parts kit is demilled (thanks Caiman), and I haven't touched my semi receiver yet. Hoping to do most of the cuts on a mill so that it comes out clean.

I'm hoping to have a friend pickup the materials I need for the tooling for forming the magwell tabs soon, so that I may have them ready for the BP.

blackberg
08-11-2009, 6:15 PM
I got my kit from copes, didnt have the patience to get it from GB
-bb

Peter W Bush
08-11-2009, 8:14 PM
I got my kit from copes, didnt have the patience to get it from GB
-bb

What about the tube and barrel?

GameAPBT
08-11-2009, 10:05 PM
Parts kit from Gunbroker and the semi auto parts from www.indianapolisordnance.com (http://www.indianapolisordnance.com)

I remember reading a thread on one of the STEN Yahoo Groups that there is an ATF letter stating that the hole in the stock was not considered a thumbhole stock.

But, we also have to content with the California yahoos who may have a different opinion. I was just thing about tack welding a fender washer into that hole, so that none of my finger would fit through it.

My parts kit is demilled (thanks Caiman), and I haven't touched my semi receiver yet. Hoping to do most of the cuts on a mill so that it comes out clean.

I'm hoping to have a friend pickup the materials I need for the tooling for forming the magwell tabs soon, so that I may have them ready for the BP.

There is nnnnooooo way to form those tabs. you gotta use the old ones. Even with a jig, you might distort the tube.

blackberg
08-11-2009, 10:17 PM
What about the tube and barrel?

www.indianapolisordnance.com
-bb

indianapolisordnance
09-19-2009, 3:18 AM
Hi Guys,

First of all, if you have problems with the firing pin, please let me know. I will gladly look at them and test them for proper function. There is no need to modify the hammer and I do not recomend it. The firing pin is a true inertia type of pin. The bolt is designed so that if the hammer follows the bolt down, it will not slam fire. Only anout .04" needs to stick out of the back of the bolt for the hammer to strike it. The bolt must be closed and the hammer must strike it with enough inertia to ignite the primer. I hope this answers some of your questions. Jason


I did notice that the AR15 firing pin does not stick out that much from the rear of the bolt.

The tip of the firing pin is about 1.3mm below the bolt face on my bolt.

Firing pin has to travel a bit to protrude past the bolt face to strike the primer, firing pin would have to be recessed into the bolt to go that far. I figured that the striker is going to have hit the firing pin with enough inertia to fight the firing pin spring and travel far enough to strike the primer.

I thought that if this was going to be a problem, then there is a couple things we can do to help with a more positive firing pin strike.



Play around with the firing fin spring (cut some of it off) and strengthen the striker spring (heavier spring, or a hollow spacer behind striker to increase spring rate).
Recontour the striker, so that the part of the striker goes into the firing pin hole. As it stands the large flat surface stops flush when it strikes the bolt.
Add weight to the striker to give more inertia, when it strikes the firing pin.
Mill a new striker or modify the existing striker.

Modified striker idea:
Use a 3/8 ball mill to cut a channel onto the top of the striker. Then take 3/8 steel round stock and pin & weld it to the striker.
Contour the front of the 3/8 round stock so that it will strike the firing pin and not strike the bolt. It should only stick out in front of the striker about ~3mm.
The added weight/mass will also help. This will focus all the inertia against the firing pin. Hardened the round stock before welding it on.
Part of the top of the round stock may have to be milled down to clear the bolt (not illustrated). It has to sit as high to be centered onto the firing pin.

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/6493/iomodstriker.jpg

thefifthspeed
09-19-2009, 6:12 AM
Hi Guys,

First of all, if you have problems with the firing pin, please let me know. I will gladly look at them and test them for proper function. There is no need to modify the hammer and I do not recomend it. The firing pin is a true inertia type of pin. The bolt is designed so that if the hammer follows the bolt down, it will not slam fire. Only anout .04" needs to stick out of the back of the bolt for the hammer to strike it. The bolt must be closed and the hammer must strike it with enough inertia to ignite the primer. I hope this answers some of your questions. Jason

Jason,

What would you like us to do? Send in just the bolt/hammer or something else? I held off on modifying the bolt but I still can't get hammer strike from my hammer/bolt. I've thought of making the springs lighter to help the inertia but haven't modded them yet. So as it stands I have a great looking sten that doesn't shoot.

Grendl
09-21-2009, 3:55 PM
Hey guys, I am very interested in this project, but cannot figure out how it's legal. PM'd Redhorse, but did not receive a reply.

I'm not crapping or being sarcastic, I just can't see how this is legal after reviewing the pertinent code sections. Especially 18 USC 922(r) "It shall be unlawful for any person to assemble from imported parts any semiautomatic rifle or any shotgun which is identical to any rifle or shotgun prohibited from importation under section 925(d)(3) of this chapter as not being particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes..."

What am I missing? :) Thanks in advance for taking the time with this relative noob. I'd love to participate if I can convince my wife it's really okay.

ke6guj
09-21-2009, 8:01 PM
it is exempt from 922(r) if it has enough imported parts replaced by domestic parts.

thefifthspeed
09-21-2009, 8:07 PM
it is exempt from 922(r) if it has enough imported parts replaced by domestic parts.

Off the top of my head I thought the magic number was 10 or less? With a Sten there aren't many parts to it for you to worry about that anyway but I've found the Bren to be a bit harder to tackle than the Sten because of that. The bigger problem with the Sten is avoiding all of the possible MG issues and the short barrel rifle issue which isn't hard to overcome with reduced diamiter tubes and 16" barrels out there.

REDHORSE
04-26-2010, 11:46 PM
I wasn't comfortable hosting a STEN BP without any experience and some tooling in place. I was hoping to pick up a full size knee mill, but the drill press with the cross slide table and vice was sufficient enough for this build. Since I have the tooling and now the experience, I feel better about moving this BP forward.

I'd like to get 2-3 STEN Builders that have everything ready to go and host a small BP in mid-May.

Let me know if you have everything (parts & time) to go forward and as soon as I get 2-3 builders ready to go, we'll schedule a weekend to help you guys out with your builds.

You must have a reduced diameter STEN receiver tube or you will not be welcomed to the BP.

What would help to have is:


Another drill press with a cross slide table or vice would be very helpful with moving things along well. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=32997
Center-point drill bit (quality USA made), new end mill bits, and some misc Dremel cut off wheels is probably all that is needed.


I finished my IO STEN Mk III build. I'm very happy with the results.

pKBZ3sSvY3E

O5S75cUL5fI

thefifthspeed
04-27-2010, 12:29 AM
Very nice! How did you solve that firing pin issue? And what kind of finish is on that?

REDHORSE
04-27-2010, 1:13 AM
I was reading about someone else's STEN build on another forum and they brought up the type of paint they used.

Finish: Parts blasted with aluminum oxide, then Parkerized with Manganese phosphate solution. I did this so that the paint had a great surface to stick to for durability.

Painted with Dupli-Color Engine Enamel "Ford" semi-gloss black (#DE1635). About $5 a can from Kragen (O'Reilly), one can will easily do a whole STEN.

The paint covers very well, spray a couple very light coats to avoid runs, hung basically every part on wires. After about an hour of air drying, I baked the parts/paint in the oven @ 300 for 3 hours. It didn't stink up the house. :innocent:

I cut the recoil & striker springs exactly as it stated in the instructions. I was tempted to cut them longer, but it was so hard to cock the striker and bolt, so I went with the recommended spring lengths. After firing about 250 rds I think the springs began to settle. I was getting a few light primer strikes and I suspect the springs.

So, I'm going to get some new springs and cut them a little longer. In the meantime I'll try a small spacer to increase the spring tension. I'll do some more testing this weekend.

Rukus
04-27-2010, 7:36 PM
Redhorse, your build looks great. I really wish I had the money to get the semi kit and receiver...I've got 2 MKIII kits waiting to be demilled and built up.

Grendl
04-28-2010, 7:41 AM
[QUOTE=REDHORSE;4193210]I wasn't comfortable hosting a STEN BP without any experience and some tooling in place. I was hoping to pick up a full size knee mill, but the drill press with the cross slide table and vice was sufficient enough for this build. Since I have the tooling and now the experience, I feel better about moving this BP forward.

I'd like to get 2-3 STEN Builders that have everything ready to go and host a small BP in mid-May.

Let me know if you have everything (parts & time) to go forward and as soon as I get 2-3 builders ready to go, we'll schedule a weekend to help you guys out with your builds.

You must have a reduced diameter STEN receiver tube or you will not be welcomed to the BP.

What would help to have is:


Another drill press with a cross slide table or vice would be very helpful with moving things along well. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=32997
Center-point drill bit (quality USA made), new end mill bits, and some misc Dremel cut off wheels is probably all that is needed.

QUOTE]

I'm working on it. :)

REDHORSE
04-28-2010, 11:06 AM
We would also need a MIG or TIG welder for the BP and someone that knows how to use it.

Next door neighbor to where I'll host the BP is a welder by trade, but I don't want to count on him being home. He is often at the car races on the weekends repair/welding race cars.

I also have a commercial welder in El Monte that was a former FFL, so he is not gun shy and knows the gun laws. They were the ones that welded the STEN for me (TIG).

GuyW
04-28-2010, 11:24 AM
Appropo of nothing, but I've heard that files are a wonderful invention....
.

TURBOELKY
04-29-2010, 8:04 PM
I did not realize the cost of a build for a sten, but man it looks like a super fun gun!!! I may have to join in on this, hopefully finances go well!!!

REDHORSE
04-30-2010, 7:39 PM
STEN Mk III parts kits on sale: $85 https://www.apexgunparts.com/product_info.php/products_id/1435

K&H Metals in Riverside (60 fwy & 91/215 fwy) sells the 4130 reduced diameter tubing (pre-cut), the same type that IO uses for their receiver tubes. 2ft length is all that is needed ($15). http://www.khmetals.com/

SIZE O.D. x Wall. 2 Foot... 3 Foot... 4 Foot... 6 Foot
1½" x .083w...... $14.34 ...$20.51 ..$26.68 .$39.02

You would need to turn (on a lathe) the very front and back section of the receivers to reuse the front barrel trunnion, and the spring cup & receiver cap. IO does this to their receiver tubes.

You don't have to buy the 16" barrel. Their semi-auto kit includes a barrel extension that you can weld to the original SMG barrel to bring it to 16". Oh... the parts kits on sale, do not come with the SMG barrels.

IO Semi parts kits and receiver tubes: http://www.indianapolisordnance.com/sten_mk3.html

Rukus
04-30-2010, 8:28 PM
FWIW, the parts kits from APEX have been demilled very nicely. The 2 that I have are not cut into the trigger housing and have the receiver tabs intact. You will have to cut the magwell from the original receiver tube though.

Redhorse, any ideas as to when your build party is gonna be held? I am trying to scrounge up the dough to get at least one semi kit/barrel/receiver from IO for this.

REDHORSE
04-30-2010, 8:50 PM
When we get 2-3 builders ready to go, then we can set a date.

I don't have a date yet, as no one has yet step forward to say that they're ready. When yall ready, then I will free up one of my weekends to help.

straykiller
05-01-2010, 12:42 PM
ima order a kit today and hopefully the other stuff within a couple weeks, anyone know how hard it is to make a sten run 7.62x25,



Edit: just ordered the kit should have it next week some time

EDIT2: sten kit demilled, semi tube, semi bolt from OI, all ready to go, ill cross my fingers i have this weekend of lol

REDHORSE
08-03-2010, 7:27 PM
STEN Mk III Parts kits on sale for $60! Sten MKIII 9mm Parts Kit $60.00 We just lowered the price on these kits... Original Sten MKIII parts kit. These are complete minus the barrel and receiver tube. The trigger group tabs are intact like they are supposed to be for a semi-auto conversion. These were originally 9MM guns but can be built in 7.62X25 with the proper additional parts. https://www.apexgunparts.com/product_info.php/cPath/51/products_id/1435 These and many other kits/parts are available for sale on our web site. APEX Gun Parts 719-481-2050 P.O. Box 144 Palmer Lake, CO 80133 Mon-Fri 8am to 4pm MT. www.apexgunparts.com (http://www.apexgunparts.com) Sten MKIII 9mm Parts Kit $60.00 https://www.apexgunparts.com/images/PartsKit/Sten%20MKIII%20Parts%20Kit%20wo%20bbl.JPG Sten MKIII 9mm Parts Kit $60.00

straykiller
08-03-2010, 7:39 PM
Nvr mind I finished my build a few weeks ago, I might build another one if I can find out what I would need to build It in 7.62x25

blackberg
08-03-2010, 8:25 PM
hey,
I never saw the post about the build party,
did it ever happen?

My kit is demilled allready, finally haha


tempted to get another one now..hmmm..
-bb

RossRinSD
08-21-2010, 9:01 PM
Any of you guys build one before?

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f113/RossRinSD/Sten%20Build/061409_0978.jpg

Here is my build thread

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=140177

Its by no means perfect, the Sten mags all suck. It was my first Sten build and by no means am I an expert, an engineer, or a machinist.

If you read through the thread and see something that needs to be corrected or you have a better idea, let me know so we can discuss and make changes.

saki302
08-22-2010, 12:53 AM
Nice build- thought he 'thumb hole stock' plug is taking CA paranoia a bit far :D

Some folks did plug up the rifle-style bent-half-tube stocks though, since you could actually stick you thumb through that and fire it, though being a thumbhole stock was completely not the idea of that design!

If you still have the original bolt handle, it can be cut and ground to fit and work- it looks more authentic than the little stub grab handle that came with your kit.

-Dave

RossRinSD
08-22-2010, 12:59 AM
Nice build- thought he 'thumb hole stock' plug is taking CA paranoia a bit far :D

Some folks did plug up the rifle-style bent-half-tube stocks though, since you could actually stick you thumb through that and fire it, though being a thumbhole stock was completely not the idea of that design!

If you still have the original bolt handle, it can be cut and ground to fit and work- it looks more authentic than the little stub grab handle that came with your kit.

-Dave

Paranoid gun owners, where? ;) Hey, I can't afford a lawyer...

I'm sure you could modify the standard bolt handle, I don't remember why I didn't, maybe I'll have to revisit my build. I think I was just anxious to get the thing done.

bplvr
01-16-2011, 6:11 PM
All this with an automatic center punch, a dremel tool with the little slicing wheels ,a jewelers loupe a hand drill, and some files. To make it more interesting I crossed an MKIII with an MKII so it has a 'drop down' mag holder.
The pics show it in mock up state ,with a few holes left before welding.

Roccobro
01-16-2011, 8:06 PM
She's a cutie!!!

Justin

semperfidelis354
01-18-2011, 3:39 AM
dude can we do another one of these sten build parties? that would be totally awesome!