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Make: Colt
Model: AR-15 SP1
Serial Number: SP94881
Year of Manufacture: 1979 (Pre-Ban)
Caliber: .223 Remington
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated, Fed by Detachable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the magazine well is marked with the rampant colt logo over "COLT / AR-15", "CAL. .223 / MODEL SP1", and "SER. SP94881". The right side is marked “COLT’S FIREARMS DIVISION / COLT INDUSTRIES / HARTFORD, CONN. / U.S.A.” The barrel is marked "C MP CHROME BORE", indicating Colt manufacture, magnetic particle inspection, and a chrome-lined bore. The bolt is marked "C" and "MP", and the carrier is marked "C", verifying a Colt-produced and properly inspected bolt carrier group. The upper receiver carries a "C M" forge code on the carry handle, identifying Colt and Martin Marietta production. The upper forging also displays a square forge mark near the buffer tube. The front sight base is stamped “C” on the leg. The rear sight drum is properly marked 1 through 5. The hammer is marked “C”, confirming Colt factory manufacture.
Barrel Length: 20”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade integral to the forged front sight base. The rear sight is a windage-adjustable A1-style aperture sight integrated into the carry handle, with a five-position elevation drum.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle features its original black synthetic furniture. The buttstock is the correct fixed “Type C” with a trapdoor storage compartment and checkered buttplate. The pistol grip is the original checkered “Type D” with visible mold line and smooth underside. The triangular handguards are glossy black “Type E” pattern with aluminum heat shields intact. There are scattered light marks consistent with age and handling, but no cracks or major wear. The trapdoor functions properly, and the sling swivel is present. The furniture rates in about Very Good to Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Black Anodized Receiver, Phosphate Barrel & Steel Parts
Finish Originality: Appears Original, with some potential mismatching
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion or pitting. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original finish. The receiver shows light edge wear and operational handling marks throughout. The phosphate finish on the barrel is intact with no corrosion, and the bolt carrier group shows light operational wear. The upper and lower receivers display a slight difference in finish tone, with the upper having a more grayish hue—suggesting a possible replacement or anodizing variation. The front takedown pin is a modern replacement and is not dimpled like original Colt SP1 pins. All markings are crisp and correct. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Plus to excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt locks back properly on an empty magazine and the safety selector is positive. The internals appear original, including a Colt-marked hammer. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None included.
Our Assessment: This Colt SP1 is a desirable and mostly correct example of a 1979 pre-ban AR-15, retaining the signature features collectors look for: slabside upper, triangle handguards, chrome-lined C MP barrel, C-marked bolt and carrier, CM-forged upper, C-marked front sight base, and a Colt-stamped hammer. While the upper shows a slightly lighter anodizing hue than the lower and the front takedown pin is a replacement, these are minor deviations on an otherwise authentic rifle.
SP1s in this condition are increasingly hard to find—especially with matching Colt internals, original furniture, and proper factory markings throughout. This is a worthy addition to any retro military rifle collection, or a prime candidate for a Cold War-era display build. Whether you’re an AR enthusiast or a dedicated Colt collector, this one is ready to fill a prominent spot in your safe.