Bolt Handles

[2ndArmored]

In parts kits and gun shows, I've come across a few different types of bolt handles. Some are cylindrical and utilitarian, some have checkering, and most look like an hour-glass. My quest to find which handles go with which versions of the Sten are met with blank looks or contradictory answers. Can anyone provide some insight? Are there other types?

[m3bobby]

First one is a Mk3 variation, middle one is a suspect another variationon the Mk3. Last one is a Mk5, it was known as the safety handle because it locks into a hole in the body preventing the bolt being pulled back accidentaly.

 

The Mark of the handle has no baring on the Mk of the gun but a Mk1 handle was generally for a Mk1 STEN, the MK2, 3 and 4 were generally used on the Mk2 and 3 and the Mk5 handle was introduced for the Mk5 gun but was retro fitted to all models.

[woodsy]

The Mark 1 handle has a thin flange of about 5/8" diameter where it sits against the body and a 1/4" diameter knurled shaft as the handle. These are seldom seen as they were only on the Mark 1 guns. As m3bobby says, most guns have been retrofitted with the safety handle.

[2ndArmored]

Since millions of Mk II's were made, I figured the "original" bolt handles for them would be plentiful. What did they look like?

[woodsy]

The Mk II guns originally came with the same cocking handle as the Mk I guns but they were very soon changed to the later 'safety' style. I will post a photo of this type later.