COLT SPORTER

Overview

The Colt Sporter Lightweight is a semi-automatic, magazine-fed, gas-operated modern sporting rifle. Released by Colt's Manufacturing Company primarily in the early 1990s, it serves as a lightweight, civil-market variant of the AR-15 platform designed for recreational target shooting, varmint control, and collecting.Key Technical SpecificationsBecause it was designed as a "lightweight" utility rifle, it features a thinner profile barrel (often referred to as a "pencil" barrel) and a compact gas system.Barrel Length: 16 inches (some variants feature a threaded barrel).Action: Semi-automatic, firing from a closed bolt.Sights: Fully adjustable rear sight for windage and elevation, combined with a fixed A2 front sight post.Stock & Furniture: Standard fixed buttstock and a pistol grip made of durable nylon, paired with a reinforced fiberglass, aluminum-lined handguard.Receiver Style: Typically features a fixed carry handle integrated into the upper receiver.Available Calibers & ConfigurationsThe model was uniquely offered across a few distinct calibers, altering the base weight of the firearm:Caliber VariantModel NumberApproximate Weight.223 RemingtonModel #65306.7 lbs9mm LugerModel #64307.1 lbs7.62x39mmModel #68307.3 lbsRegulatory and Design VariationsDue to changing firearm regulations during its era of production (leading up to the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban), the Sporter Lightweight incorporates a few unique compliance and manufacturing variations:No Bayonet Lug: The front sight block lacks a bayonet lug.Receiver Block: Includes an internal receiver block to prevent conversion to fully automatic operation.Pin Sizes: Uses different sized receiver take-down and pivot pins compared to standard military M16 specifications.Magazines: Originally shipped to the commercial market with two 5-round box magazines, though it accepts high-capacity standard magazines where legally permitted.