Pre-Ban Colt AR-15 SP1 .223 Rem. 16″ Semi-Auto Rifle & Accessories, 1981
SOLD FOR: $2,325.00
LSB#: LSB260120RS077
Make: Colt
Model: SP1
Serial Number: SP126689
Year of Manufacture: 1981 / ATF Classification: Modern
Caliber/Gauge: .223 Remington
Action Type: Semi-automatic, direct impingement, carbine length gas system
Barrel Length: 16″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an A1 front sight post. The rear sight is a dual aperture integral to the fixed carry handle. Included are two styles of optic mounts that will screw to the carry handle. Additionally, an Ultralux 4x20mm optic is included, which will directly mount to the carry handle. The glass is clear and the optic rates in Very Good condition.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a standard A1 style pistol grip. The stock is a collapsible aluminum carbine style stock. The LOP measures 13.25″ from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt at full extension. There is only faint wear present on the furniture. There are no chips or cracks. The furniture rates in Fine Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Matt black
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The chrome-lined bore is bright and the rifling is sharp with light fouling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of finish shows very light wear from handling and operation. The BCG is correctly marked “C” and “MPC”. The pins are clean and unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not shoot this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Sling, one Colt 30rd magazine, two carry handle optic mounts, scope, AR-15 Sporter manual, M16A1 manual, and original serial marked box.
Our Assessment: This pre-ban Colt AR-15 SP1 was manufactured in 1981 and represents one of the most recognizable early commercial AR-15 variants produced by Colt. The SP1 was Colt’s civilian counterpart to the M16 and is distinguished by its slab-side receiver profile and classic early-pattern features. By the early 1980s, the SP1 had firmly established itself as the definitive commercial AR-15 platform of its era.
Chambered in .223 Remington with a 16 inch barrel, this rifle reflects the lightweight, carbine-length configuration popular among civilian shooters prior to the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition. The action functions correctly. The rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its original metal finish, presenting a very clean example. The furniture rates in Fine Plus condition with minimal visible wear.
This package includes a sling, one Colt 30 round magazine, two carry handle optic mounts, an Ultralux 4x20mm scope, an AR-15 Sporter manual, an M16A1 manual, and the original serial marked box. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition and stands as a highly desirable pre-ban Colt SP1 complete with period accessories and original packaging. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -CR