PreBan Colt SP1 AR-15 Carbine 5.56/.223 16” Semi-Auto Rifle, MFD 1977-1984
SOLD FOR: $1,738.00
LSB#: LSB250606EN127
Make: Colt
Model: AR-15 SP1 Carbine
Serial Number: SP193116
Year of Manufacture: 1977-1984
Caliber: .223 Remington / 5.56X45mm NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Direct Impingement, Magazine Fed
Markings: Left side of receiver marked “COLT / AR-15 / CAL. .223 / MODEL SP1 / SER. SP193116” with the Rampant Colt logo. Marked on left side receiver behind bolt catch “COLT FIREARMS DIVISION COLT INDUSTRIES. / HARTFORD, CONN. / U.S.A.” with “SAFE” and “FIRE” for the selection options. The side of the carrier is marked “C”. The barrel is marked “C MP CHROME BORE”.
Barrel Length: 16”. Pencil Profile
Sights / Optics: The front sight is the standard post iron sight and the rear has an iron dual aperture peep sight atop the carry handle.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a three-piece stock set with a slim round clamshell carbine handguard, A1 plastic pistol-grip, and a 2-position aluminum carbine stock. There are light handling marks throughout. The LOP is adjustable between 10” and 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Very Good overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None
Type of Finish: Gray Anodized, Parkerized.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There are light scratches, scuffs, faint thinning, and handling marks throughout. The action has very light wear. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are clear. The pins are unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
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: None
Our Assessment: The Colt SP1 Carbine was the civilian semi-automatic version of the military M16/Carbine line, introduced in the 1960s and produced into the 1980s. The SP1 was the rifle that brought the AR-15 platform to the civilian market, setting the stage for its dominance in the decades that followed.
This example, manufactured between 1977–1984, is a pre-ban rifle, making it particularly desirable for collectors in restrictive states. It retains its classic lightweight “pencil” barrel, aluminum stock, clam-shell handguards, and A1 upper receiver—all features that distinguish the early SP1s from later AR-15 variants. For collectors of Colt rifles and retro enthusiasts, this SP1 is an important and valuable piece. Be sure to check our detailed pictures for a better understanding of the firearm. -C.R.
