Vintage Pre Ban Colt AR-15 SP1 .223/5.56 20” Semi Auto Retro M16 Rifle 1978
SOLD FOR: $1,825
WOA#: WY231109DM004
Make: Colt
Model: AR-15 Sporter SP1
Serial Number: SP98842
Year of Manufacture: 1978
Caliber: .223 / 5.56
Action Type: Semi-Auto, Direct Impingement
Markings: Left side of receiver marked “COLT AR-15 / CAL. .223 / MODEL SP1 / SER. SP98842” with the Rampant Colt logo. Marked on left side receiver behind bolt catch “COLT’S FIREARMS DIVISION / COLT INDUSTRIES / HARTFORD. CONN / U.S.A.” Marked with “SAFE” and “FIRE”. Top of barrel stamped “C MP CHROME BORE”. The carrier is marked “C” and the neck of the bolt head is marked “MPC”. The right side of the handguard is marked “C M”.
Barrel Length: 20″, 21” with 3 prong flash hider.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post iron sight and the rear has an L-type iron peep sight. A1 sights.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This is an A1 style rifle. The buttstock is an A1 polymer buttstock with sling ring, checkered buttplate, and trapdoor for the storage compartment currently housing a cleaning kit. The pistol grip is an A1 checkered polymer grip with a lanyard loop. The handguard is a polymer A1 triangular handguard. There is some light general wear along the surface of the handguard and buttstock. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Very Good overall condition. There are some light scratches and scuffs throughout. There are no chips or cracks.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
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. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minimal wear at the rear ejection port. The screw heads are sharp, the pins are unmarred, and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition for a Pre Ban rifle.
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 its attached canvas sling with aluminum fittings.
Our Assessment: The Colt AR-15 SP1, introduced in the early 1960s, is a classic and historically significant firearm, representing one of the first commercial versions of the military M16 rifle. This semi-automatic rifle, chambered in 5.56 NATO, retained many features of the original M16, including its lightweight design and distinctive triangular handguard. The SP1 is easily recognizable by its lack of a forward assist and its original “slab side” lower receiver without a raised fence around the magazine release button. Equipped with a 20-inch barrel and a fixed carry handle with an integrated rear sight, the SP1 is revered for its simplicity, reliability, and as a symbol of the early era of the AR-15 platform. For collectors and enthusiasts, the Colt AR-15 SP1 not only offers a shooting experience with a piece of history but also represents the genesis of the now ubiquitous AR-15 in civilian hands. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
