ARMALITE AR10

[OLIAR15]

I already posted about this rifle, it was for sale, I tried buying it, then seller decided to keep it, then he had a WTB ad for a 1911A1, I had a 1942 Colt I was willing to part with, and we finally agreed to an even exchange.

After a wait for the special full auto license, and some delays by the Swiss post, the rifle arrived yesterday. It seems to be in nice condition for its age with some wear and patina, character really.

[OLIAR15]

[OLIAR15]

I could say a lot about the rifle, but only about what I observed compared to the AR 15 / M16 I already own since I don’t know anything about it’s provenance, history or pedigree so I thought I’d better let the pictures do the talking

And after a quick check / lube, I rushed to the range to try it out, in semi auto only for now

Barrel was dirty and or corroded and pitted so I was afraid the bullets would come out sideways and keyhole



But it shot ok at 50 meters with nice round holes













One drawback though is the charging handle hitting me in the cheek so I had to back up my head farther from the handle and sight, which makes it harder to have a nice sight picture and shoot accurately. And it’s a very light rifle so it kicks noticeably with .308.

In any case I am elated to have acquired this piece of history. It complements nicely my trio (XM 177E2, M16A1, M16A2).

[OLIAR15]

I field stripped it again and took a look at the bolt and carrier. Obviously the firing pin is huge, the bolt is huge compared to the AR15. It’s also in a very good condition with hardly any carbon buildup.





I also checked the charging handle. There is an internal ball detent and a ridge in the upper that is supposed to keep the handle from riding the BCG and hitting me in the face. The spring seems strong, so I’m not sure what the problem is, maybe it’s the design, hence the modification to an external hook on the charging handle on the AR15.







On the good news, after firing 20 rounds and a good scrubbing and cleaning, the barrel condition is better than I expected.

[VLODPG]

Beautiful piece of history!

[georgeib]

A beautiful piece indeed! Thank you for sharing it with us.

You, undoubtedly, have the most enviable collection on the forum.