Austen Mk I

Diecasters Ltd / W. T. Carmichael Ltd · Submachine-Gun · Out Of Production · 1942

Weight (empty)3980 g (140.4 oz)
Overall Length845 mm (33.27")
Barrel Length198 mm (7.80")
Magazine Capacity28 rounds
Action TypeBlowback
Firing MechanismOpen Bolt
Muzzle Velocity396 m/s (1299 fps)
Muzzle Energy584 J (431 ft·lbf)
Effective Range100 m (109 yd)
Frame MaterialSteel

Primary Caliber: 9x19mm Parabellum

The Austen ('Australian Sten') Mk I was a 9x19mm submachine gun developed in 1942 as Australia's hybrid wartime answer to the British Sten and German MP40. It married the Sten Mk II's barrel, receiver, and trigger group with the MP40's folding stock, telescoping bolt cover, and separate firing pin, fed from a side-mounted Sten-pattern magazine. Despite being mechanically reliable, it was overshadowed in Australian service by the homegrown and beloved Owen Gun.

Country of Origin: Australia

Designer: Lieutenant Vernon Wardell and Lieutenant Carmichael