Gwinn / Bushmaster Arm Pistol 5.56×45mm 11.5” Semi-Auto Pistol, 1973-1988
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
LSB#: LSB250620RH004
Make: Gwinn Firearms Company & Bushmaster Firearms International
Model: Arm Pistol
Serial Number: 002007
Year of Manufacture: 1973-1988
Caliber/Gauge: 5.56×45mm NATO / .223 Remington
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Detachable Magazine
Barrel Length: 11.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a protected post fixed just forward of the gas block. The rear sight is integral to the butt of the pistol and can be used by canting the gun or holding it regularly.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The Arm Pistol uses a unique bullpup-inspired design with an AR pistol grip and unique receiver layout. The pistol grip shows light handling marks and light surface wear from storage and use. There are no cracks or chips. The furniture rates in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Black nitrite
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no oxidation present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its original finish. There are light handling marks from storage or very light use. The only notable wear is a wear in between the barrel and gas tube. The pins are lightly tooled, but very functional. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this pistol rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The safety functions, however the selector is loose and has moderate play. We did not fire this pistol. We have cleaned this firearm and performed a mechanic’s check but expect many will want to clean the firearm again depending on their standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Bushmaster Arm Pistol is one of the more unusual firearms to come out of the 1970s–80s firearms experimentation era. Produced by Bushmaster and Gwinn from 1973–1988, the Arm Pistol was a compact bullpup-inspired semi-automatic pistol chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO, designed with paratroopers and vehicle crews in mind. Using a rotating bolt and AR-18 style operating system, it accepted standard AR-15/M16 magazines and featured a very distinctive tube-shaped receiver layout.
While never widely adopted, the Arm Pistol has since become a collectible oddity prized by enthusiasts of Cold War experimental firearms. For collectors of rare Bushmasters, bullpup-inspired designs, or unusual 5.56mm platforms, this Arm Pistol is a standout piece. Be sure to check our detailed pictures for a better understanding of the firearm. -C.R.
