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LOT 1347
Rare Prototype Armalite AR-18 Selective Fire Rifle, Serial Number “X001”, Class III/NFA C&R Fully Transferable Machine Gun, as Seen in Small Arms Review - Serial no. X001, 5.56 mm cal., 18 inch round bbl., matte gray finish, synthetic stock. Manufactured by Armalite in Costa Mesa, California, this AR-18 rifle shows a number of features that set
it apart from the majority of AR-18 production. The receiver lacks provisions for a dust cover or scope block, the guide rod assembly terminates in a single hook instead of the spring- loaded retention mechanism seen on later production, and
the bolt carrier is grooved down the right side and lacks the “keyed” charging handle slot to fit the later “bent” charging handle. The frame uses different mechanisms for securing the stock, with a spring catch on the underside of the stock to release from the “open” position, and a round stud (with no spring retention) to secure the stock in the “closed” position. Adjustable post front and two-leaf rear sights, with a 3-pronged flash hider, left-handed selector switch, ribbed forearm and smooth “AR-18” marked pistol grip. This AR-18 is featured in an article titled “The Lost Armalites” in the July 1998 (Volume 1 Number 10) issue of Small Arms Review, where it receives a full page photo spread on page 47 detailing the early features such as the aforementioned stock and bolt carrier configuration; a copy of the issue is included with the lot.
CONDITION: Excellent, with 97% original matte gray phosphate finish, showing some minor wear and handling marks overall. The furniture is very fine, with light scratches and dings, showing good tight lockup in the stock in the open position. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a “Curios or Relic” as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 479.
Estimate: 45,000 - 75,000