Make: Colt
Model: SP1
Serial Number: SP10330
Year of Manufacture: 1968
Caliber/Gauge: .223 Remington
Action Type: Semi-automatic, direct impingement, rifle length gas system.
Barrel Length: 20", A1 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 A1 carry handle.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are A1 pattern with two-piece triangular forend, checkered pistol grip, and buttstock with serrated plastic buttplate. The LOP measures 13" from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt. There is very little wear present on the furniture. There are no chips or cracks. The furniture rates in Very Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Phosphate and Hard Anodize
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. 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 AR15 bolt is marked "MP". The pins are clean and unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action 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: Includes a black canvas sling and a total of six 20rd Colt magazines.
Our Assessment: This early Colt AR-15 SP1 was manufactured in 1968 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic rifle. Produced by Colt during the early years of civilian AR-15 production, the SP1 closely mirrored the military M16A1 configuration of the period. This example features the desirable slick side receiver profile without a forward assist or magazine catch cage, characteristic of early SP1 production and reflective of the clean lines of the original design.
Chambered in .223 Remington with a 20 inch barrel, this rifle maintains the classic rifle-length gas system and lightweight barrel profile associated with early AR-15 variants. The action functions correctly and the bore is strong. The furniture rates in Very Good-plus condition with light handling wear appropriate to its age. This rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its original metal finish, presenting as a well-preserved example from the late 1960s. Included are six 20-round Colt magazines. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition and stands as a highly collectible early SP1 from the formative era of Colt civilian AR-15 production. Please see our photos and good luck with your bids!
