Rare Early Pre Ban Colt AR-15 SP1 .223 20” Retro M16 Rifle 1967 C&R
SOLD FOR: $4,025.00
LSB#: LSB260415RR016
Make: Colt
Model: AR-15 SP1
Serial Number: SP08414
Year of Manufacture: 1967 / C&R
Caliber: .223 Rem
Action Type: Semi-Auto, Direct Impingement fed by detachable magazines
Markings: Left side of receiver marked “COLT / AR-15 / CAL. .223 / MODEL SP1 / SER. SP08414” with the Rampant Colt logo. Marked on left side receiver behind bolt catch “COLT’S PATENT FIREARMS HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A. MFG.CO ” Marked with “SAFE” and “FIRE”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “S 12”. The neck of the bolt head is marked “MP”. There is a proof on the right side of the front leg of the carry handle in the corner of the ejection port. The right side of the barrel is marked “MP”.
Barrel Length: 20″, 21” with 3 Prong Flash Hider
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post iron sight and the rear has an L-type iron peep sight. A1 sights.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This is an A1 style rifle. The buttstock is an E1 polymer buttstock with sling ring, serrated buttpad, and no trap door. The pistol grip is an A1 checkered polymer grip with a lanyard loop. The handguard is a polymer A1 triangular handguard. There is light handling wear. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock rates in Excellent overall condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One Colt 20rd 5.56 straight mag in Very Good Condition. The aluminum follower shows some general operation wear but the spring is strong and the leading edges are sharp.
Type of Finish: Dark Gray Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows little to no handling or operational wear. There are a few minor drag lines. The screw heads are sharp, the pins are unmarred, and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent 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: This SP1 comes with a total of one magazine and a black cotton sling in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: A collectable of collectables, this SP1 is not only a very early run of the iconic SP1 rifle, it’s also in Excellent condition having been properly maintained and cared for over the past 59 years of its lifetime. That’s right, that also means this civilian version of the M16 qualifies as C&R. Colt sets the standard for AR15 builds, and what better way to bolster your gun collection than add one of these to it? You want this preban combo in your arsenal for its good looks and smooth operation. With a triangular forearm and solid A1 features and correct markings, you can give this arm the 21st-century treatment at the range or keep it as a show-and-tell piece. Given its exceptional condition, this rifle will crown even the best of collections. Please see our photos and good luck on your bids! – L.S.