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Make: Colt
Model: AR-15 A2 Sporter II
Serial Number: SP340755
Year of Manufacture: 1978 (Pre-Ban)
Caliber: .223 Remington / 5.56x45mm NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Detachable Magazine Fed
Barrel Length: 20”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a post protected by wings and adjustable for elevation, integrated into an A2 front sight base. The rear sight is a windage and elevation adjustable aperture mounted in the carry handle. An extra hole has been drilled into the top of the carry handle, likely for mounting optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle is equipped with a fixed A2-style synthetic stock, checkered pistol grip, and standard handguards with heat shields. There are only faint handling marks present on the stock components, and no chips, cracks, or significant wear. The LOP measures approximately 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The furniture rates in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized Steel and Aluminum Throughout
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no visible erosion or fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% or more of its original finish. The rifle shows almost no signs of use, with only the faintest operational wear on the bolt release and charging handle. The Parkerized finish is uniform throughout with no notable thinning or discoloration. The only deviation from originality is an extra hole drilled in the top of the carry handle, likely added to accommodate an optic mount. The screw heads are sharp, and the pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The safety selector, bolt hold-open, and magazine release all operate smoothly. The bolt carrier is a full-profile design, and the rifle features the original Colt-marked hammer. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle includes one 20-round aluminum USGI-style magazine, a Colt factory manual, and an original two-point sling.
Our Assessment: This Colt AR-15 A2 Sporter II, manufactured in 1978, represents a highly collectible pre-ban transitional model at a time when Colt was refining the AR-15 platform for the civilian market. Though marked as an A2, this model retains earlier slab-side lower receiver features while incorporating updated elements like the forward assist and case deflector. The result is a historically significant configuration that bridges the gap between the earlier SP1 and later full-featured A2 models.
This particular example is exceptionally well-preserved, showing 95%+ of its original Parkerized finish and virtually no signs of use. The extra hole in the carry handle reflects a common period modification for optics, a reversible change that does not detract from its overall presentation. Whether you're a serious Colt collector, a retro rifle enthusiast, or someone looking for a premium pre-ban AR in excellent condition, this Sporter II checks every box.