Vintage Pre Ban Colt AR-15 SP1 .223 20” Semi Auto Retro M16 Rifle 1976
SOLD FOR: $1825
WOA#: WY230327MH009
Make: Colt
Model: AR-15 SP1
Serial Number: SP55955
Year of Manufacture: Pre-1994 Ban, 1976
Caliber: .223
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Direct Impingement
Markings: Left side of receiver marked “COLT AR-15 CAL. .223 MODEL SP1 SER. SP55955” 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” around the safety selector and “MFG. CO.” by the takedown pin. Top of barrel stamped “C MP CHROME BORE”. The Bolt Carrier is marked with “C” and the neck of the bolt head is marked “MPC”.
Barrel Length: 20”. 21” with A1 flash hider.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an A1 adjustable post iron sight and the rear has an A1 iron L-Type flip aperture sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is synthetic with an A1 triangular handguard/forearm, no case deflector or forward assist, A1 Checkered synthetic pistol grips and A1 fixed buttstock. There is some loose storage wear on the buttstock and across the handguard. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Very Good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20rd 5.56 Colt Straight magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Anodized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is nearly mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion/corrosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows some light scratches and rub marks on both receivers as well as on top of the carry handle where there is a small nick. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are clear. The pins are unmarred. Overall, this Vintage rifle rates in about Fine 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: This rifle comes with a total of one magazine and its attached brown nylon sling with aluminum fittings.
Our Assessment: Colt sets the standard for AR15 builds, and what better way to bolster your gun collection than add one of these to it? In beautiful condition that only pre-ban platforms can glow with, this AR-15 is the epitome of basic, but not in a bad way. Basic in this case means pre ban factory configuration, tried and tested reliability, and ready to use. If you are in the market for your first or fiftieth AR, look no further. You want this preban combo in your arsenal for its good looks and smooth operation. With a triangular forearm and solid A1 features, you can give this arm the 21st-century treatment at the range or keep it as a show-and-tell piece. Either way, ya gotta bid on it first!