Colt Sporter Target Model R6551 5.56mm NATO Pre-Ban AR-15, 20 inch 1:7 Barrel, A2 Sights
This early-1990s Colt Sporter Target Model R6551 is a pre-ban, ST-prefix configuration with classic A2 features. It carries a 20-inch steel barrel marked "C MP 5.56 NATO 1/7," an A2 closed-bottom birdcage flash suppressor, bayonet lug, and an A2-pattern upper with fixed carry handle. The upper receiver shows the C MB forging code, adding correct-period detail for collectors and enthusiasts.
Note: The barrel is factory-marked "C MP 5.56 NATO 1/7," indicating a 5.56 NATO chamber, while the lower receiver is factory roll-marked "CAL .223"—a correct, period-typical marking on ST-prefix Colt Sporter Target rifles.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Details: This example presents well for its early-1990s vintage. The finish shows scattered scratches and small blemishes. The bore is bright and clean.
What’s Included
- Colt Sporter Target Model R6551 rifle
- 1x 20-round straight-body aluminum AR-15 magazine
This R6551 retains the hallmark A2 configuration: a fixed carry handle upper with brass deflector, forward assist, and ejection-port cover; A-frame front sight base; and the A2 closed-bottom birdcage flash suppressor. The barrel is 20 inches with a 1:7 twist and is threaded, pairing period-correct features with Colt’s "C MP 5.56 NATO 1/7" roll mark.
The rifle uses a direct-impingement, semi-automatic action on an aluminum receiver with a hard-coat anodized finish. Steel components wear a parkerized/phosphated finish for durability. The C MB forging code on the upper aligns with correct-period manufacture from the era.
Furniture is classic A2: ribbed rifle-length polymer handguards with a straight (cylindrical) slip ring, an A2 pistol grip, and a fixed A2 buttstock with trapdoor buttplate and rear sling loop. Sighting is via A2 iron sights, combining the A-frame front post with the carry-handle rear sight featuring an elevation drum.
This pre-ban, ST-prefix Sporter Target Model was produced prior to 9/13/1994 and maintains the bayonet lug and A2 flash suppressor typical of the period. Capacity is 20+1 with the included straight-body aluminum magazine, rounding out a correct and complete A2-pattern setup.