Make: Sterling (Armalite Patent)

Model: AR-180

Serial Number: S23887

Year of Manufacture: 1979-1985 / ATF Classification: Modern

Caliber/Gauge: 5.56mm NATO

Action Type: Semi automatic, short-stroke gas piston system

Barrel Length: 18"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is an elevation adjustable post with protective wings and the rear sight is an adjustable "L" style flip aperture with markings for 200 and 400 meters, adjustable for windage. The top of the receiver has a base for mounting an optic (none present).

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The buttstock, pistol grip, and handguard are black synthetic reinforced polymer. The stock is side folding. There is a sling swivel mounted to the bottom of the pistol grip and one through the bayonet lug. The LOP measures 14" from the front of the trigger to the back of the unfolded buttstock. The handguard has light signs of wear. The pistol grip has light surface blemishes. There are no chips or cracks. The stock has light wear. Overall the stock set is in Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp with stubborn fouling. There is faint erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The finish shows a few blemishes and surface scratches. The pins and receiver welds look solid. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: One 20rd magazine and a cloth sling

Our Assessment: This is a very high condition example of the Sterling produced AR-180, retaining approximately 98%of its original finish. The metal surfaces are clean and even with light handling evidence, and the rifle presents with the crisp industrial appearance that defines the later British made AR-180 pattern. The 18" barrel gives the rifle a balanced, purposeful profile and preserves the handling characteristics that set the AR-180 apart from contemporary AR-15 designs.

Mechanically, the rifle is excellent. The bore rates 9 out of 10 with strong rifling and good brightness, indicating light use. The action functions correctly and exhibits the smooth, reliable operation associated with the AR-180's short stroke gas piston system. Lockup and cycling are positive and consistent, reinforcing the design's reputation for reliability across a wide range of conditions.

Historically, the Sterling era AR-180 represents the final and most refined commercial production of Eugene Stoner's alternative to the AR-15. Manufactured in the United Kingdom after earlier Dutch production, these rifles are valued for their rugged stamped receiver construction, piston driven operating system, and distinctive Cold War era design philosophy. High condition Sterling examples are increasingly difficult to find and are widely regarded as some of the more desirable civilian AR-180 rifles available today.