Very Early Colt AR-15 SP1 .223 Rem. 20″ Semi-Automatic Rifle, MFD 1967 C&R

SOLD FOR: $3,675.00

LSB#: LSB260224PC005

Make: Colt

Model: SP1

Serial Number: SP07586

Year of Manufacture: 1967 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: .223 Remington

Action Type: Semi-automatic, direct impingement, rifle length gas system

Barrel Length: 20″ with a three prong flash hider

Sights / Optics: The front sight is an A1 front sight post. The rear sight is a dual aperture integral to the fixed carry handle. 

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a standard A1 style pistol grip. The stock is a fixed M16 style stock. The LOP measures 13″ from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt. There is light wear present on the furniture. There are no chips or cracks. The furniture rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Matte black 

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The 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 bolt is marked “MP”. The pins are clean and unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: A front sight tapper pin is missing. The action otherwise 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, seven 20rd Colt magazines, two magazine spacers that limit a 20rd magazine to 5rds, and a Colt 62122 bipod

Our Assessment: This very early pre-ban Colt AR-15 SP1 was manufactured in 1967 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic rifle. Produced by Colt during the formative years of civilian AR-15 production, the SP1 represents the commercial counterpart to the early M16 rifles issued during the Vietnam era. This example is a desirable slick side configuration in M16A1-style format, lacking the forward assist and retaining the clean receiver profile associated with early production.

Chambered in .223 Remington with a 20 inch barrel, this rifle maintains the classic rifle-length gas system and lightweight pencil barrel profile of early AR-15 variants. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5 out of 10, indicating excellent internal condition. The action functions correctly. The furniture rates in Very Good condition with typical light handling wear consistent with age. This rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its original metal finish, presenting a remarkably strong example for a 1967 production firearm.

Included are seven magazines, a Colt 62122 bipod, and two rare vintage magazine spacers designed to limit 20 round magazines to 5 rounds. These early accessories enhance the historical completeness of the package. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition and stands as a highly desirable early SP1 from the first years of civilian AR-15 production. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! -CR