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Posted: 6/11/2010 6:45:02 PM EDT
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A local shop has a Colt “AR-15” ”SP1” that looks great. It is a bit dirty, but it seems to be in great shape.
The serial number “SP1….” Puts the manufactured date between 1968 and 1972. I’m trying to figure out if the handguard is original. The stock seems to be an old material, kind of like Bakelite. Slicker than current finishes. The handguard seems to match the stock, but the rib pattern is a bit different from others that I’ve seen. It’s round, not triangular, and the “ribs” are further apart than current handguards. Seems like the ribs are 1+ inch or so apart. -Did Colt make a “ribbed” handguard in this vintage? -When did Colt switch from triangular-smooth to round-ribbed handguards? Thanks. |
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Quoted:
Those are Lone Star Ordnance handguards, and they're not original Colt parts. That rifle should have triangular handguards. ETA: spottedfrog beat me to it.  This, for sure. I got my 1978 (near mint) SP1 for a measly $800 a month or so ago because of the odd look of those Lonestars that it was wearing, and an A2 grip that was added. Apparently, those were the "hot upgrade" at one point. I bought my SP1, and then bought a nice set of HGs (new in wrap, off GB) and an A1 grip (new in wrap) from Bill Ricca. POOF! perfect retro happiness! I have those Lonestars now in my oddity box. Perhaps they'll come back in vogue one day, but I kinda hope not  .
Mike B |
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Thanks for the help!
There was another thread open on these handguards a couple of months ago. http://www.ar15.com/FORUMS/topic.html?b=3&f=123&t=495230 |
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Quoted:
Thanks for the help! There was another thread open on these handguards a couple of months ago. http://www.ar15.com/FORUMS/topic.html?b=3&f=123&t=495230 Uh, that's my thread!! (I am the one who answered one post above!) 
I wondered what they heck they were myself!!! Alas, they'll sit in my "oddity" bin till they become "retro" then they'll move to the "retro" bin... Mike B
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