Description
Picture this: you’re looking for a serious, no-nonsense rifle for the bench, the range, or even a prairie dog town. You want the pedigree of the original, but your budget has a hard ceiling. You’ve seen the sky-high prices for new Colt target models and thought, “There has to be a smarter way.” There is. The Colt AR-15 Blue Label Sporter Target 5.56/.223 Used, 20″ Barrel, Black, 20rd represents a critical intersection of proven performance and real-world value. It’s a pre-owned workhorse that delivers where it counts.
So, what exactly is it? The Colt AR-15 Blue Label Sporter Target 5.56/.223 Used, 20″ Barrel, Black, 20rd is a pre-owned, semi-automatic rifle built on Colt’s iconic AR-15 platform. Designed for enhanced accuracy with its 20-inch barrel and target-style handguard, it fires 5.56x45mm NATO and .223 Remington cartridges from a 20-round magazine. This is a factory-built Colt rifle offered at a significant discount from its original retail price, providing a cost-effective entry into high-quality, American-made precision.
Let’s talk about the core value proposition. At $1597.99, this used Colt sits in a sweet spot. You’re avoiding the steep depreciation of a brand-new rifle while still acquiring a tool with a legendary name and robust construction. The 20-inch barrel is the key feature here—it allows for a full powder burn of 5.56mm rounds, translating to higher muzzle velocity and a flatter trajectory downrange. That means more consistent hits on paper or varmints at extended distances. The rifle is mil-spec compatible, meaning a vast universe of aftermarket parts from brands like Magpul, BCM, and Geissele can be used for customization, though it’s drop-in ready as-is.
The “Blue Label” designation historically indicated models sold through specific professional channels, often adding to their collectible and functional appeal. This particular configuration, with its full-length handguard and target-style sights, prioritizes a stable shooting platform over modularity. It’s a rifle built for a specific purpose: putting rounds accurately on target, shot after shot. The 20-round magazine is a practical touch, keeping the profile manageable for bench shooting while offering ample capacity.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.56x45mm NATO / .223 Remington |
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 Rounds |
| Overall Length (Approx.) | 39.5 Inches |
| Weight (Approx.) | 8.5 lbs |
| Condition | Used – Excellent |
Pros & Cons: The Practical Trade-Offs
The main pro is undeniable: you get Colt quality and accuracy potential at a fraction of the cost of a new equivalent. The 20-inch barrel system is ballistically superior for target and varmint work. Cons? It’s a full-size, 8.5-pound rifle—not a lightweight home-defense or patrol carbine. As a used firearm, it may show minor cosmetic wear, but that’s where the savings come from. It’s a tool, not a safe queen.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is ideal for the budget-conscious precision shooter, the hunter needing a reliable varmint rig, or the collector seeking a practical piece of Colt history. It’s for someone who understands that a longer barrel provides a tangible ballistic advantage and who prioritizes that performance over ultra-lightweight handling. If your goal is to shoot tight groups without spending a fortune on a boutique precision AR, this Colt answers the call. It is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the condition of this used rifle?
A: We classify it in “Excellent” used condition. It is mechanically sound and shows only minor, honest wear from previous use—the kind that doesn’t affect function but does create significant savings. A detailed inspection is performed prior to listing. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Q: Is the 20-inch barrel a 1:7 or 1:9 twist rate?
A: Colt’s 20-inch target barrels typically feature a 1:9 twist rate. This twist is excellent for stabilizing the lighter .223 Remington varmint bullets (55gr and under) that are most common for target and small game shooting, making it a purpose-driven choice.
Q: Can I use PMAGs or other aftermarket magazines?
A: Absolutely. This rifle uses a standard AR-15 lower receiver that is fully compatible with a wide range of magazines, including Magpul PMAGs and other mil-spec STANAG pattern magazines. The included 20-round Colt magazine is just the starting point.
Here’s the thing—in a market flooded with new imports and budget builds, a used Colt like this offers a different kind of value: proven reliability and a performance-oriented design. If a durable, accurate .223/5.56 platform for deliberate shooting fits your needs, this Sporter Target model deserves a close look. See the full details and availability on our site.
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