RARE Sterling Model 287 PPL .380 Auto Semi-Automatic Pistol 1971-1972 C&R

Sold For: $5,580.00

LSB#: 220516HE027

Make: Sterling Arms Corp

Model: 287 PPL

Serial Number: 001377

Year of Manufacture: 1971 – 1972

Caliber: .380 ACP

Action Type: Semi Automatic Pistol fed by Detachable Magazine

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “STERLING ARMS CORP. / MADE IN U.S.A. / PATENTS PENDING / .380 CAL.”. The left side of the slide is marked “MODEL PPL / .380 AUTO”. The right side of the receiver is marked “001377”. Both grip panels have an intertwined “S” and “A” logo.

Barrel Length: 1”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade fixed to the top of the receiver. The rear is a square notch integral to the top of the slide.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered plastic with the Sterling Arms Cop intertwined “S” “A” logo. The grips show a few small handling marks and scratches in the smooth borders. The checkering shows little wear and remains pronounced throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is light thinning on all prominent edges. There are a few minor scattered nicks, scratches, and freckles of surface oxidation throughout the metal. The grip allen heads show some light rounding, still serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Good-Very Good condition (SEE MECHANICS).

Mechanics: The action does not function correctly when testing it at the desk. It may function fine under normal working conditions, but we did not fire this pistol. When the slide is drawn back it locks up on the hammer. A little tap to the rear of the slide and it will return home. This is with and without the magazine in the gun and with the safety on and off.  As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with one (1) 5-round magazine with intact feed lips and strong follower spring.

Our Assessment: What an odd one. This pistol comes from one of the best collections we have seen come through the shop. This gun was a surprise to see mixed in with a batch of Colt 1911’s and Browning Hi Powers. We know there must have been a reason why this gun made it into his collection. When we started doing our research this quote came up and sums it up the best “The PPL was only made briefly while the firm was going through some corporate teething problems in 1971 and 1972. These inexpensive pocket pistols seldom turn up for sale today. This rarity on the market is probably due to three things: low initial production, attrition over 40 years (both in terms of guns destroyed and guns forgotten in dusty closets), and lack of demand that would pry survivors out of those closets.” Just look at this thing! The front sight is on the receiver because the barrel isn’t even long enough!? Who designs a gun like this?

RARE Sterling Model 287 PPL .380 Auto Semi-Automatic Pistol 1971-1972 C&R
RARE Sterling Model 287 PPL .380 Auto Semi-Automatic Pistol 1971-1972 C&R