pre-ban lower value question

[45Badger]

I've got a couple pre-ban Colt AR15's (One Sporter Match HBAR and one Sporter Target Model) and one pre-ban Colt Sporter Target Model lower. Given what pre-ban Colt lowers are going for on AR15.com, I'm probably going to sell a lower.

The "spare" lower has a Jewell trigger in it that I want to keep. My question-

Is there any value difference/preference between a Sporter Match HBAR lower and a Colt Sporter Target Model lower? Any real differences?

If no practical or value difference, it would be easiest to sell the HBAR lower and slap the spare lower on the HBAR upper, and save myself the hassle of swapping triggers. If the HBAR is/should be a keeper, I'll swap the triggers and sell the spare target Model Lower.


Deep thoughts please.................

 

[rcmodel]

My deepest thought is, if they are old enough to have the goofy pin size and hole spacing Colt used to use in them?

I'd rather have about any other lower that uses standard uppers.

I have an SP-1 lower I'd love to put a flat-top upper on, but they just don't fit due to Colts paranoia of the time.

rc

 

[TurtlePhish]

For the things that people want the lowers for, chances are they won't think twice about the model the lower came off of. Sell whichever one you care less for. And take into consideration what rcmodel said.

 

[Shadow 7D]

unless you live in a state that it matters/ed (like CA)
it just another used lower

 

[MachIVshooter]

unless you live in a state that it matters/ed (like CA)
it just another used lower

This. Those Lowers/rifles had an inflated value for a 10 year period from '94-'04. When the ban sunset, they plummeted in value. I wouldn't give more than $125 for a used Colt stripped lower, or $300 for one complete w/stock.

 

[firesky101]

Shadow, your point is correct just not your example. I think it is NY where the date on the lower matters. Here in Cali the only way to have a correct AR is for it to have been registered as an AW prior to 2000, non-transferable.

 

[45Badger]

This. Those Lowers/rifles had an inflated value for a 10 year period from '94-'04. When the ban sunset, they plummeted in value. I wouldn't give more than $125 for a used Colt stripped lower, or $300 for one complete w/stock.

Don't be myopic to market values beyond your back yard and circle of friends. I would not pay that much either. But we both live in "free" states. There are a pile of gun folks in places like NY where the supply is low relative to the demand. They pay a premium for these. If you need examples, check out the "used lower" forum in the AR15.com equipment exchange.

Back to my original question for the Colt experts/junkies- Any value (perceived or actual) split between these two lowers? The question is not the value of pre-ban vs post-ban. Thanks!

 

[drsfmd]

The much cooler thing to do would be to sell it to someone in NY for the same price you can get for it locally, rather than jacking up the price and sticking it to some guy.

Alternatively, trade someone your used receiver for the brand new receiver of your choice. I'd bet you could get a new Rock River receiver in exchange for your used Colt.

 

[madcratebuilder]

These still command a higher price in ban states, there are several on the east coast. Arfcom EE or Gunbroker, they well sell fast. They are just another AR part in free states.

 

[TurtlePhish]

In CT, prebans get close to $700. Just an example for you free folks.

 

[Flashcube]

Seen them as high as $1000 in a few shops for pristine ones. Even saw a complete pre-ban rifle with a price tag of something north of $2500 on it... I don't need a bayonet lug that badly lol.

 

[jimmyraythomason]

Can a pre-ban lower be legally sold into a ban state?

 

[wnycollector]

The much cooler thing to do would be to sell it to someone in NY for the same price you can get for it locally, rather than jacking up the price and sticking it to some guy.

Alternatively, trade someone your used receiver for the brand new receiver of your choice. I'd bet you could get a new Rock River receiver in exchange for your used Colt.

+1 on this.

I personally wouldn't pay an exorbitant price for a pre ban lower. I own a half dozen AR's. All of them are on inexpensive post ban receivers w/ A1 buttstocks, no bayonet lugs and muzzle brakes. My AR's shoot just as well as as a pre ban lower, but a much lower cost

 

[TurtlePhish]

Can a pre-ban lower be legally sold into a ban state?

Yup, CT law grants exception to pre-94 firearms.

 

[jimmyraythomason]

"Can a pre-ban lower be legally sold into a ban state?"

"Yup, CT law grants exception to pre-94 firearms."

Is this true for all ban states?

 

[firesky101]

Is this true for all ban states?

Sure, but in some states a pre-ban lower means nothing, it still must be neutered. Like my wonderful state.

 

[SilentStalker]

Honestly, I own some preban ARs and I ^^^do not see what the hype is about. Why would you want one over a new one? They look, operate, and function just the same as the new ones. The only thing I understand is thst you can legally convert the preban models to full auto (so I have been told), but I see no reason why you could not domthis to a newer model if one so Desiree to fill out the paper work and pay uncle sam his share!

 

[MachIVshooter]

The only thing I understand is thst you can legally convert the preban models to full auto

Absolutely not. The MG registry has been closed since 1986; Only SOT's with manufacturers license can do conversions, and only as demo/sample guns.

If you convert any semi to full auto, you will go to prison.

 

[Gordon]

I have both the ones you named as my registered assault rifles (1999) here in stupid kali. There is not one IOTA of difference other than the roll marks. The Sporter now wheres a Noveske upper and the Match has the original Heavy 20" barrel and a good trigger and an A-1 length stock.

 

[45Badger]

I have both the ones you named as my registered assault rifles (1999) here in stupid kali. There is not one IOTA of difference other than the roll marks. The Sporter now wheres a Noveske upper and the Match has the original Heavy 20" barrel and a good trigger and an A-1 length stock.

Thank you for the direct and clear answer to the question

 

[Quiet]

Pre-Fed'94 ban receivers only matter in CT & NY.
You can sell them in those states for a pretty penny.

They don't mean nothing in CA.
In CA, it's a Registered Assault Weapon or not a Registered Assault Weapon, doesn't matter if it is a pre-ban or not.





threadjack...
If anyone in CT is looking for a pre-ban AR lower receiver, send me a PM. I may have one for sale.