Colt AR-15 Sporter SP1 .223 Rem Pre-Ban (1976), 20 in Chrome-Lined Barrel, A1 Sights, Slick-Side Upper
This 1976 Colt AR-15 Sporter SP1 is a pre-ban rifle that features the classic early configuration collectors look for. It has the slick-side upper without forward assist or brass deflector, a slab-side lower without a magazine-release fence, and gray anodized forged receivers. The 20-inch chrome-lined pencil barrel is marked "C MP CHROME BORE" and is paired with A1 sights, an A1 birdcage flash suppressor, and a bayonet lug. It includes a straight-body 20-round aluminum magazine and a green web sling.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Specific Condition Details: This firearm is in great shape. There are scratches and blemishes present across this rifle. The bore is clean and shiny.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- 1x 20-round straight-body aluminum USGI-style magazine
- Green web sling (installed)
The SP1 configuration highlights early AR-15 features: a slick-side upper receiver (no forward assist, no brass deflector), a slab-side lower without a magazine-release fence, and the large two-screw front pivot. It uses a rifle-length gas system with an early flat slip ring, triangular vented handguards with an aluminum heatshield, an A1 checkered pistol grip, and a Type E fixed stock with a trapdoor buttplate and rear sling swivel.
The 20-inch steel barrel has a chrome-lined bore in a lightweight pencil profile. It is threaded and fitted with an A1 birdcage flash suppressor with 360-degree open slots and a fixed A-frame front sight base with a bayonet lug. The barrel marking "C MP CHROME BORE" is present.
Forged aluminum receivers wear the correct gray anodized finish, paired with phosphate-finished steel components and polymer furniture. The rifle uses a semi-automatic, gas-operated, direct-impingement system with a rotating bolt and a two-position safety selector. Capacity is 20+1 with the included straight-body magazine.
Made in the USA in 1976, this SP1 is a pre-ban example produced prior to the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban. Its period-correct features and finish reflect the 1970s production era while maintaining the clean, functional presentation that appeals to enthusiasts of early AR-15 Sporters.