Sten Mk V Foregrip

[230Ball]

Seems most pics of Sten Mk Vs do not have a foregrip. Were all issued with a foregrip, and if so, what was the rationale for removing it? Was it too cumbersome? I know the tendency is to hold the Sten by its magazine and my guess is that the foregrip was designed to discourage that.
Thanks,
Carl

Information

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[browningautorifle]

I used a Sten for a time and the Sterling for years after (SMG C1) and never held the magazine. Never saw anyone else do it either. I'd think if the foregrip was removed, it was because it broke or user didn't want it...it would be a bit harder to stow with one more thing stuck out.

[gsimmons]

According to Peter, the grips would twist and loosen the barrel nut. Is that right Peter?

[Peter Laidler]

Yep....... It served no useful purpose and were all removed after June '46 or so. More to it than that of course but when it worked loose - which they all did as sure as night follows day - you could tighten it up once but thereafter the grip split and that was it!

[230Ball]

Thanks, Gents. I greatly appreciate the advice in this forum, as it's usually from those who lived it!
Cheers,
Carl

[Peter Laidler]

Anyone interested, a looks-like-new but a bit dirty Mk5 Sten gun butt on that auction site

[230Ball]

Peter,
With regard to the aft pistol grip, was the No1 Mk1 or No2 Mk1 steel pistol grip ever used on the Mk5? The original wood pistol grips are becoming extremely rare; however, I've seen a few companies market the (new production replica) steel grip as a replacement.
I greatly appreciate your expert answer in advance.
Carl

[Brit plumber]

I've seen quite a few (At least in the UK) new old stock grips for sale recently, I got one last year for £5 with bolt so they are still out there. The steel grip for the Mk5 is different to the Mk2 version as the retainer plate (Or what ever it is called) is behind the grip for the Mk5 but in front for the mk2.