December 14-17, 2021 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/17/2021
When Colt purchased the rights to the AR-15, a number of rifles were marked with both Colt and Armalite markings. This example is marked "COLT / ARMALITE AR15 / PATENTS PENDING / CAL .223 / MODEL 01 / SER: 015349" and "COLT'S PATENT FIRE ARMS MFG. CO / HARTFORD, CONN / U.S.A" with Colt's so-called "Keyhole" forging mark near pistol grip and a faint "VP" proof and "C" proof on upper. Flat side receiver without forward assist. Early rear sight adjustable for windage and front sight adjustable for elevation. "SAFE / SEMI / AUTO" markings. Short ribbed handguard, 2 position telescoping safety. Front sight block with bayonet block. Birdcage flash hider. Despite being marked auto this gun does not rotate over and is not drilled for the third hole. Bolt carrier group is a Palmetto State Armory replacement, barrel is a DTI 1:9 twist. Sling has been bungie tied to top of buttstock and to front sight post. Unmarked single stage trigger, Magpul trigger guard. During the transitional period, Colt was known to have made numerous little revisions and changes to their parts, especially when active development was being done during Vietnam. This example is clearly one of those transitional guns or parts clean up guns that has full auto marking despite never being set up for it. CONDITION: Very good, with the parkerization turning greenish, and a layer of white infill applied over markings (excepting SAFE and AUTO) to enhance visibility. Some silvering to high edges and some minor marks from handling and use that do not detract. Mechanically fine, bore is very good with strong rifling. If you want to do a clone build of a fully automatic receiver or just like early Colt rifles, this is a fantastic one. EMW
Manufacturer
Colt/Armalite