Colt AR-15 SP1 .223 Rem Pre-Ban (1973) 20-inch Rifle with Colt 3x20 Scope, Slick-Side Upper, Triangular Handguards
This 1973 Colt AR-15 SP1 is a pre-ban rifle that showcases the early configuration collectors look for: a slick-side upper, slabside lower, and 20-inch pencil-profile barrel. It retains the classic A1-style sights, triangular handguards, and birdcage flash suppressor, and it includes a Colt-marked 3x20 carry-handle scope. The rifle is in good condition and comes with three 20-round USGI-pattern magazines.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: There is marring and light scratching on the stock, fore-end, receiver, and barrel. The optic mounting screw and nut show surface rust. The bore is clean with moderate discoloration. The rifling remains defined with visible wear from use.
What’s Included
- Colt 3x20 carry-handle scope with mount
- Three 20-round USGI-pattern aluminum straight-body magazines
Manufactured in 1973, this SP1 is a true pre-ban example produced prior to the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban. The receivers are factory marked "COLT AR-15", "MODEL SP1", and "CAL. .223", and the rifle was made in the United States.
It features the early slick-side upper with no forward assist or case deflector and a slabside lower without a magazine-release fence. The lower uses the large two-piece front pivot screw typical of the era. Sights are A1-style, with the rear sight integrated into the fixed carry handle and an A-frame front sight base with front sling swivel.
The 20-inch pencil-profile barrel is threaded and fitted with a birdcage flash suppressor. A rifle-length gas system, straight knurled slip ring, and triangular rifle-length handguards with oval vents complete the classic SP1 configuration.
Furniture includes a fixed polymer stock with a 13.0-inch length of pull and a rear sling swivel, plus an A1-style checkered pistol grip. The receivers are aluminum alloy with an anodized finish, and controls include a manual safety selector. Capacity is 20+1 with the included 20-round magazines.
The included Colt 3x20 carry-handle scope adds period-correct utility. It mounts directly to the handle, is Colt-marked, and features 3x magnification with a 20mm objective, complementing the rifle’s A1 sighting system.