Scarce PreBan Beretta AR70/.223 Mod. 70 Sport 18.5” Rifle, Bayonet & Mags

SOLD FOR: $7025

WOA#: WY230529MB006

Make: Pietro Beretta

Model:  AR70/.223

Serial Number: M32374

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1980’S

Caliber: .223

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas Piston

Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked “Mod.70 / SPORT / BERBEN CORPORATION N.Y.N.Y.”.  The left side of the receiver is marked “BERETTA-PATENTED- MADE IN ITALY / PB Mod.AR70/.223”, “M32374”.  The left side of the lower is marked “M42374”. Both sides of the bipod base are marked “PB 99 / 1005-15-114-7268”.  The right Bipod leg is marked “1005-15-065-0156 PB 99” and the left leg is marked “1005-15-065-0157 PB 99”.  The selection options are marked “S 1”.  The bayonet is marked with a star and “AEP 1966 / F113106” on the ricasso. The scabbard is marked “USM8A1”.

Barrel Length: 18.5”. 19” with external grenade launcher sleeve/flash hider.

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is an adjustable post set between two protective ears.  The rear sight is an L-Type flip aperture sight with apertures for 150 and 300 meters.  There are some optic mounting rails on top of the receiver.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The buttstock is smooth polymer with a serrated steel buttplate and sling ring on the left side. The pistol grip is ribbed polymer.  The handguard is ribbed polymer as well.  The rear of the gas block has a swiveling folding bipod mounted to the barrel.  The left side of the gas block has a sling ring. This is a stamped receiver.    There is a small dust cover behind the bolt.   The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition. There are some minor storage marks but no notable defects or handling wear.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Magazine Quantity & Condition:  Three AR70 .223 30rd magazines in Very Good-Excellent condition.  One magazine appears unused entirely.

Type of Finish:  Black

Finish Originality: Original

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

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish.  The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.  There is some finish loss around the rim of the mag well.  There are some other faint storage marks but other than that this rifle is clean and pristine.

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 3 magazines, and a BM/59 AR70 Bayonet with USM8A1 Scabbard.  The bayonet is in Very Good condition.  There are no signs of abuse and the factory edge is original and sharp with a sharp point.  There is some light sheathing wear on the blade and the hand has some compression marks throughout.

Our Assessment:  Ladies and gentlemen, today we have a truly special firearm on the table, the Beretta AR70/.223. This rifle holds a unique place in firearms history, as it emerged from a collaboration between two giants of the industry: Beretta and SIG. Working together from 1963 to 1968, these powerhouses aimed to revolutionize infantry rifles after Colt denied Beretta license to produce M16 Rifles for international sales. However, when they parted ways, Beretta took the reins and birthed the remarkable AR70 series while Sig went on to produce the SIG-540.

Now, what we have in front of us is the civilian version of this iconic rifle, purpose-built for the American market. The Beretta AR70/.223 is a semi-automatic masterpiece, demonstrating Beretta’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Crafted with precision and ingenuity, it showcases the company’s ability to marry military-grade design with civilian applications.

But what truly makes this rifle a gem among collectors and enthusiasts is its rarity. Only a select few were imported into the United States in the 1980s, adding to its mystique and desirability. Owning a Beretta AR70/.223 is like owning a piece of firearms history, a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship that Beretta pours into their creations.

In conclusion, the Beretta AR70/.223 stands tall as a symbol of collaboration, innovation, and artistry. Its roots in the Beretta-SIG partnership, coupled with its limited importation and unique design, make it a cherished gem in any firearms collection. So, if you ever have the chance to lay your hands on one of these rare beauties, don’t hesitate. It’s an opportunity to own a true legend in the world of firearms.