Italian Beretta Mod. AR70 Sport 18” .223 Rem. Semi-Auto Rifle, Mag, 1980s
SOLD FOR: $5,025.00
LSB#: LSB250809NF013
Make: Beretta, Italy
Model: AR70/.223 Sport
Serial Number: M32131
Year of Manufacture: 1980-90s / Modern
Caliber: 5.56×45 / .223 Rem.
Action Type: Semi-Automatic Long Stroke Gas Piston Rifle, Fed By Detachable Magazines.
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked, “Mod.70/SPORT” with an importers mark. The left side of the receiver is marked, “BERETTA – PATENTED -MADE IN ITALY / Mod. AR70/.223 / M32131”. The trigger housing is marked, “M32131”.
Barrel Length: 18”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post set between twp protective ears integral to the gas block. The rear sight is a two position folding aperture with protective wings. The top of the receiver has a scope mount.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a three piece black polymer with a ribbed forend, ribbed pistol grip, and straight combed stock with sling bar and steel buttplate. There are light handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall this stock set rates at about Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: 1x 30rd magazine in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black
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 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks and chipped finish throughout. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action function 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: 1 Magazine.
Our Assessment: This Beretta AR70/.223 Sport is a rare and highly collectible civilian version of the Italian military AR70/90 rifle, chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO / .223 Remington and imported in very limited numbers during the 1980s and early 1990s. Designed as Beretta’s answer to NATO’s call for a modern intermediate-caliber battle rifle, the AR70 series represented a significant leap forward in Italian small arms design, incorporating a long-stroke gas piston, rugged monolithic upper, and robust stamped lower with ambidextrous controls. The civilian Sport model, such as this one, preserves all the lines and military pedigree while conforming to pre-ban import regulations. This example features an 18” barrel, folding rear sight, ribbed black polymer furniture, and a steel buttplate—all true to the original military configuration. The scope rail atop the receiver adds modern utility, while the bright bore with sharp rifling (rated 9.75/10) confirms it has seen minimal use beyond factory testing. The finish shows 97% retention with minor handling marks and light finish chipping. The rifle includes one original 30-round magazine, and the action remains tight and smooth. All markings are clear, and the serial number is properly matched on both the receiver and trigger housing.
Very few AR70 Sport rifles were imported to the U.S., and their unique appearance, reliable function, and Cold War heritage make them a prized acquisition among collectors of European military-pattern rifles. With Beretta pedigree, military lineage, and impressive mechanical condition, this rifle is an excellent centerpiece for any collection of pre-ban semi-automatics or modern military designs. -R.E.
