Factory Built Sterling AR-18S

Chuck over at GunLab.net has scored some pics of what is purported to be the only Factory Built Sterling AR-18S in the United States.

I have heard about this gun through the grape vine but I have never seen pictures before.

Lets see how my clone looks in comparison.

AR18s-2c

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Obviously no forward pistol grip on mine.

AR18s-4c

Interesting design of the charging handle. Similar to the early AR18 and the AR180B.

AR18s-1

Bayonet lug has been removed. British proof marks are in a different place than on the full size rifles.

 

AR18s-5c

Sling mount that I have seen on other AR-18S guns. A sling mount was also attached to the guide rod assembly.

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The flash hider is just like my second one shown on top.

AR18s-7

I never knew that they were actually marked AR-18S. Could the “S” have been stamped after the upper was built?

 

AR18s-9

Unique serial number starting AS for Automatic Short

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Not exact but I think my second one built in a Costa Mesa lower will be much closer.

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This one is functionally the same as the factory built shorties excepting the select fire of course.

I have am thinking I want to get into a machine gun in the near future. I would love for a Sterling AR-18S to be my first.

Somehow I think I couldn’t afford it even if it were for sale.

 

One Reply to “Factory Built Sterling AR-18S”

  1. Nice write up and comparison. I have a spare lower and when I fix my upper stamping die I want one of these.

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