Pre-Ban Korean Daewoo K1A1 5.56 16.5” Collapsible Stock Semi Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $3,212.00
LSB#: LSB250809NF008
Make: Daewoo Precision Industries LTD.
Model: K1A1
Serial Number: 018370
Year of Manufacture: Pre-1989 / Modern
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO
Action Type: Semi-automatic direct impingement gas operated rotating bolt system.
Markings: The left side of the upper is marked, “DAEWOO PRECISION INDUSTRIES LTD.” The right side of the lower is marked, “IMPORTED BY STOEGER IND SHACKENSACK . N.J.” The left side is marked, “MADE IN KOREA / 556MM K1A1 / 018370 / SAFE / SEMI” There are various proof marks throughout.
Barrel Length: 16.5” Fixed Muzzle Device.
Sights / Optics: The rear sight is an adjustable 2 position flip up peep hole sight. The front sight is an adjustable post.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has an adjustable 3 position wire buttstock with a checkered polymer pistol grip and polymer fluted handguard. The forend has minor nicks, scratches, and handling wear throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock set rates in at a Very Good condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
Type of Finish: Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. There is light fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are light scratches and wear marks throughout. The action is lightly worn. The screw heads are sharp/pins are undamaged. and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in at about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Sling.
Our Assessment: This pre-ban Daewoo K1A1 is a rare and historically significant semi-automatic rifle—an American-imported version of South Korea’s standard-issue military carbine, developed during the Cold War to modernize the Republic of Korea’s small arms alongside U.S. and NATO allies. Manufactured by Daewoo Precision Industries and imported by Stoeger Industries of Hackensack, New Jersey, this rifle was brought into the U.S. before the 1989 import ban, making it especially desirable for collectors of pre-ban military-pattern rifles. The K1A1 blends AR-15-style direct impingement operation with a unique upper/lower receiver design and Korean-style ergonomics. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, it features a 16.5” barrel with integral muzzle device, fluted polymer handguard, and a 3-position wire collapsible stock for portability. The rifle’s sights include a flip-up peep rear and adjustable post front. Internally, the rifle uses a rotating bolt system, and externally it mirrors the handling characteristics of the AR-15 while maintaining proprietary Korean innovations.
This example retains about 96% of its original parkerized finish, with light wear and handling marks throughout. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, rating 9/10, and the action functions smoothly. The polymer components are in very good condition with only light cosmetic wear and no cracks or damage. Though it includes no magazine, it comes with a sling and remains complete for function.
These early-import Daewoos are increasingly scarce, particularly in their original configurations with intact pre-ban features. With military pedigree, modern compatibility, and Cold War collectibility, this K1A1 is a superb addition to any serious collection of international service rifles or pre-ban semi-autos. -R.E.
