Colt AR-15 SP1 - anything to watch for?

Jeff/1911

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Man, I've been starting a few threads here lately...:redface:

I have a line on a "like new" Colt AR-15 SP1 (thanks Richard) :) For what seems like a good price...

I realize this is an older, fixed handle rifle - so aside from the "no flat top" aspect; are there any "contraindications" of this possible purchase I should be aware of?

Thanks for any help - Jeff.
 
I have 2 and like them very much.............
I prefer the Mattel look of the triangular foreguard. Just make sure the heat shield is in there.
 
Great guns, only "real" issue is you will be limited to 55grain or lighter ammo due to the 1/12" twist, any thing else can be overcome. Watch for a burnt out barrel as these saw lots of use back in the non restricted days.
 
sparrow said:
Great guns, only "real" issue is you will be limited to 55grain or lighter ammo due to the 1/12" twist, any thing else can be overcome. Watch for a burnt out barrel as these saw lots of use back in the non restricted days.

Were the barrells chrome coated on them too?.
 
I've arranged to buy the SP1

Well, it sounds pretty good - this SP1 I've found. Apparently it's in "almost new" condition. :) I am glad to have found an original style AR, as I always liked the looks of these with their triangular fore end and fixed carry handle. Once I get this, I'll have fun shooting it as I save up funds for a carbine length new style "racer" AR. :p

Jeff/1911.
 
sidney said:
Were the barrells chrome coated on them too?.

The SP1 entered production at virtually the same time as the M16, so the available features on them morphed over time, just as they did with the M16. The first SP1 rifles out of Colt's had barrels without chrome, chromed bolt carriers, 3-prong flash hiders, Edgewater buffers, non-trapdoor buttstocks, etc. As these items were upgraded, the SP1 was upgraded too, but generally a few months later as Colt's tended to use up its old parts on commercial guns, since what went onto military rifles was not up for discussion.

Bottom line: SP1s left the factory in many configurations, and you will have to check each one individually to see if it has a chrome lined bore and/or chamber.
 
It is a Colt which is about as original an AR as it can be, unlike some of the after market AR look alike out there.
 
Hungry,

Yes, I sure intend to "enjoy the retro..."! Apparently it's just like new, and an all-original SP1. Should be here in a few days now. I'll post pictures here once I get it, for those who are interested. - Jeff/1911.
 
I also forgot to mention.....

Now that the SP1 is inbound to you... don't forget to subscribe to the "History Channel's" Tour of Duty programs.... while you fondle your SP1. Jump off the couch, and yell, "incominnnnggg!" :D

Got a steel pot (M1 helmet) and correct cover handy ? How 'bout some OD canvas jungle boots ?

Enjoy !!
 
Yes! That's what I was thinking!!!

Hungry,

Is that EVER funny you should say that...regarding "Tour of Duty". I was just watching that show the other night thinking - "That's gonna' be me! Hee-hee..." I love the look of the early M-16's.:)

Jeff/1911.
 
:cool: :cool: Proud owner of an " SP" manufactured 1963 . The stocks on these were pretty flimsy, & prone to cracks .
---- Also a lot lighter than the A-1's, A2's-,& HBs
Great for one handed shooting ! while hanging onto a horse.
Classic firearm !!!!
 
Find yourself "Beaucoup ammo, GI. AR15 is numba wan! Me no VC!"

Have fun with it! Just don't fondle it... take it to the range and send some lead downrange!

Regards,
 
Boomer686 said:
Find yourself "Beaucoup ammo, GI. AR15 is numba wan! Me no VC!"

Have fun with it! Just don't fondle it... take it to the range and send some lead downrange!

Regards,

I sure will, I plan to shoot it, and shoot it some more...

Jeff.
 
thunderflash said:
:cool: :cool: Proud owner of an " SP" manufactured 1963 . The stocks on these were pretty flimsy, & prone to cracks .
---- Also a lot lighter than the A-1's, A2's-,& HBs
Great for one handed shooting ! while hanging onto a horse.
Classic firearm !!!!

Thanks for the benefit of your experience, thunderflash - Jeff.:)
 
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