Armalite AR-180 Sterling (England) 5.56mm Pre-Ban Semi-Auto Rifle, 18.25 in Barrel, Open-Prong Flash Suppressor, Four Magazines
This Sterling-made Armalite AR-180 is a pre-ban 5.56mm NATO semi-automatic rifle produced in England between 1979 and 1985 and imported prior to the 1989 ban. It bears the correct Sterling manufacturing marks for ArmaLite and represents one of approximately 12,362 rifles produced during this period. Offered in very good condition with an excellent bore, it includes four magazines, a black web sling, and the original ArmaLite AR-180 Operation & Maintenance manual.
Markings include the ARMALITE circle logo and: "AR-180, CAL. 5.56mm, PATENTS PENDING, MFG. FOR ARMALITE, INC., COSTA MESA, CALIF., U.S.A. BY STERLING ENGLAND." This example retains the defining AR-180 features such as the short-stroke gas piston system, rotating bolt with dual guide-rod recoil assembly, and a stamped-and-welded steel receiver.
The 18.25-inch barrel is threaded and fitted with the correct open-prong flash suppressor and lock ring. Controls include a right-side reciprocating charging handle and a selector marked SAFE/SEMI. The receiver has a provision for the proprietary side optic mount as used on AR-180 rifles.
Furniture consists of a non-factory fixed synthetic buttstock with a sling swivel at the toe (the original Sterling steel side-folding stock has been replaced; the receiver’s folding-hinge area appears blocked/welded), a black synthetic pistol grip with an "AR-18 Armalite" medallion, and two-piece ribbed polymer handguards with large oval cooling ports. Iron sights include a protected front post on the gas block and a rear aperture. Length of pull is 14.0 inches.
This rifle is chambered in 5.56mm NATO and comes with two 20-round and two 40-round magazines, noted as a mix of straight steel AR-180 pattern and curved aluminum AR-pattern types as pictured. It is a well-documented Sterling, England manufacture example with pre-ban import status and clean, straightforward configuration.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Wear consistent with age is present, including minor scratches near the trigger and magwell.
What’s Included
- 2x 20-round magazines
- 2x 40-round magazines
- Black web sling (installed)
- ArmaLite AR-180 Operation & Maintenance manual