Pre-Ban Colt SP1 AR-15 .223/5.56 20″ Semi-Auto Rifle A1 M16 w/ Magazine

SOLD FOR: $1928

WOA#: WY230324AJ005

Make: Colt

Model: AR-15 SP1

Serial Number: SP47936

Year of Manufacture: Pre-1994, Preban

Caliber: .223

Action Type:   Semi-Auto

Markings: Left side of receiver marked “COLT AR-15 CAL. .223 MODEL SP1 SER. SP47936” with the Rampant Colt logo. Marked on left side receiver behind bolt catch “COLT’S PATENT FIREARMS HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.” Marked with “SAFE” and “FIRE”. Top of barrel stamped “C MP CHROME BORE”.  The neck of the bolt head is marked “MPBC”.  The carrier is unmarked.  The right side of the carry handle is marked “C M”.

Barrel Length: 20”, 21” with 3 prong flash hider.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an A1 style adjustable post sight and the rear sight is an A1 style L-type aperture sight in the carry handle.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is synthetic with a triangular handguard/forearm and no case deflector. Checkered synthetic A1 pistol grip. The buttstock is an E1 style polymer buttstock with serrated buttplate and sling swivel.   There is some general wear along the surface of the handguard and fixed buttstock. The checkering is crisp with slightly dulled peaks.  The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Good overall condition.  There are no chips or cracks.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20rd Colt Straight Mag in Very Good Condition.

Type of Finish: Anodized

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minimal wear inside the carry handle from a previously mounted scope, as well as scratches throughout the barrel and receiver including a few scuffs.  The screw heads are sharp, the pins are unmarred, and the markings are clear. Overall, this Pre-Ban rifle rates in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Total of one magazine.

Our Assessment:  The Colt SP1, also known as the Colt Sporter, is one of the most iconic rifles in American firearms history. It was the first commercial version of the M16 rifle and was introduced in 1963. It was produced until 1985, when it was replaced by the Colt AR-15A2.

What makes the Colt SP1 so collectable is its historical significance. It was the rifle that played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War, and was used by US troops in combat. The Colt SP1 is also unique in that it is a pre-ban rifle, meaning it was produced before the 1994 assault weapons ban. This has made it a highly sought-after rifle among collectors and firearms enthusiasts.

In addition to its historical significance, the Colt SP1 is also a well-crafted rifle. It has a lightweight, direct gas impingement system and a 20-inch barrel, making it easy to handle and accurate at longer ranges. Its fixed carry handle and triangular handguard are also iconic features of the rifle.

This SP1 is all original except for the Bolt Carrier that has been replaced with a Full-Auto profile Stainless Steel Carrier.  The rest of the rifle is original with correct desirable markings.  It boasts a strong bore and mechanics though the stock is a bit tattered.  Please see details below and happy bidding!