Olympic Arms CAR-AR Pre-Ban AR-15 Rifle, 5.56mm NATO, 20-inch Threaded Barrel, A2 Sights (1989)
This 1989 Olympic Arms CAR-AR is a documented pre-ban AR-15 pattern rifle with classic A2 features and SGW/Olympic receiver markings. It pairs a fixed carry-handle upper and rifle-length gas system with a 20-inch bright-metal barrel capped by an A2 closed-bottom flash suppressor. The lower bears the SGW octagon logo and correct period markings, and the F-prefix serial falls within the documented 1989 SGW/Olympic range.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The exterior shows some wear, scuffs, and scratches. The bolt release is stiff to actuate.
What's Included
- Olympic Arms CAR-AR 5.56mm NATO rifle
- 1 detachable 30-round STANAG-pattern metal magazine
Built on an SGW-marked lower receiver with CAR-AR and .223/5.56 caliber designations, this rifle reflects late-1980s Olympic Arms production. The right side is marked "OLYMPIC ARMS OLY WA USA" with SAFE/FIRE selector legend, aligning with the F-prefix serial range noted for 1989 manufacture.
The upper receiver is the fixed carry-handle A2 pattern with integrated rear sight, brass deflector, and forward assist. A rifle-length gas system and round ribbed polymer handguards are paired with a round/ribbed delta ring for the classic A2 configuration.
The 20-inch bright-metal barrel features a threaded muzzle topped with an A2 closed-bottom flash suppressor. Up front, an A-frame sight base includes a bayonet lug and an under-FSB sling swivel. Capacity is 30+1 with the included detachable metal magazine.
Furniture includes a fixed rifle stock with a trapdoor buttplate and a rear sling swivel, plus a checkered polymer pistol grip. The rifle uses a direct impingement action with a manual safety and retains the core A2 sighting system for a period-correct setup.