PreBan Colt SP1 SP-1 AR-15 5.56/.223 20” Semi-Auto Rifle, MFD 1971 C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,226.00

LSB#: WY241104AK005

Make: Colt

Model: AR-15 SP1

Serial Number: SP16803

Year of Manufacture: 1971

Caliber: .223 / 5.56

Action Type:  Semi-Automatic, Direct Impingement, Magazine Fed

Markings:  Left side of receiver marked “COLT / AR-15 / CAL. .223 / MODEL SP1 / SER. SP16803” with the Rampant Colt logo.  Marked on left side receiver behind bolt catch “COLT’S PATENT FIREARMS MFG.CO. / HARTFORD, CONN. / U.S.A.” with “SAFE” and “FIRE” for the selection options.  The side of the carrier is marked “C”.  The neck of the bolt head is marked “MPC”.  The barrel is marked “C MP B”.  The bayonet is marked, “USM8A1 PWH / U.S. M7 CONETTA”

Barrel Length: 20”. Pencil Profile. 21” with A1 birdcage flash hider.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is post iron sight and the rear has an iron deal aperture peep sight. A1 sights.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The buttstock is an A1 style fixed stock with storage compartment in the rubber buttplate. The pistol grip is an A1 grip. The handguard is an A1 rifle length triangle handguard with a round forend barrel nut retaining ring. There are scratches and rub marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.1” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Excellent overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: One x Universal Industry Division 20rd magazine in Good condition.

Type of Finish: Gray Anodized, Parkerized.

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. The feed ramps are smooth. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There are light scratches, scuffs, faint thinning, and handling marks throughout. The action has very light wear and the magwell has draglines from use. 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: One 20rd magazine, cotton sling, USM7 Bayonet..

Our Assessment:  The Colt SP1 holds a distinguished place in the history of modern firearms, particularly as an early civilian version of the iconic M16 rifle. Introduced in 1963, the SP1 was Colt’s first commercial semi-automatic rifle based on the AR-15 platform, bridging the gap between military and civilian firearm markets. This rifle, chambered in the high-velocity 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, mirrored the M16’s design and operation, offering the civilian shooter a taste of the military experience. The SP1’s design is a window into the early era of AR-15 development. It features several distinctive characteristics reminiscent of the original M16, such as the absence of a forward assist, and a simpler bolt carrier group compared to later models. The rifle’s lightweight, sleek profile, and direct impingement gas system – hallmarks of Eugene Stoner’s design – contribute to its ease of handling and reliable performance. These aspects make the SP1 not only a functional firearm but also a piece of engineering artistry. This rifle also comes with a U.S. M7 bayonet with a PWH (Pennsylvania Working Home for the Blind) marked scabbard.

Overall, owning an SP1 is akin to possessing a piece of firearm history, reflecting the evolution of the AR-15/M16 family and the broader context of American gun culture. Its legacy endures as a classic representation of Colt’s craftsmanship and innovation, and as a symbol of the merging paths of military and civilian firearm technologies.  -R.E.

PreBan Colt SP1 SP-1 AR-15 5.56/.223 20” Semi-Auto Rifle, MFD 1971 C&R
PreBan Colt SP1 SP-1 AR-15 5.56/.223 20” Semi-Auto Rifle, MFD 1971 C&R