Designed by George Lanchester and manufactured by Sterling Engineering of Essex, the Lanchester Mark I* submachine gun was a close descendant of the German MP28/II; the need for quality combat gear was rather pressing for Britain at this time, and an attitude of "if it works, it works" carried the day with the Mark I*. Big changes include the elimination of select fire operation in favor of a simpler full auto only action (the critical change that distinguishes the MkI* from the MkI), the integration of a closed bolt safety to reduce the danger of an unwanted discharge if the bolt was jostled or snagged, and a permanent bayonet lug for a SMLE knife bayonet. Chiefly used by the Royal Navy, the Mark I and Mark I* provided strong close-in firepower. Blade front and two-leaf rear sights, with the tubular receiver doubling as a ventilated barrel shroud, with the top of the brass magazine well marked "LANCHESTER/Mk.I*/SA. M619/72234". Fitted with a SMLE pattern hardwood stock with a brass buttplate. Included with the lot is an extra magazine.

Very fine, with 70% of the arsenal matte black bakelite finish, showing areas of exposed, brown patinated steel, along with some scuffs and scratching. Some machine marks are visible on the receiver ahead of the magazine well. The otherwise fine stock shows a number of scuffs and dents overall, with some minor chipping around the buttplate. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478.