Tomorrow we will begin a series of videos on a 60 year old Armalite/Colt 601 AR15 Parts Kit.

Published on February 13, 2021
Duration: 2:15

This video series will detail the restoration of a 60+ year old Colt/Armalite 601 AR-15 parts kit. The instructor will provide an overview of the kit, its acquisition, and necessary repairs for compliance. The series will include cleaning, a detailed component autopsy using specialized gauges, lower receiver distressing, assembly, and testing. The project utilizes a Brownells retro lower receiver as the original receiver was a machine gun.

Quick Summary

This video series focuses on restoring a 60+ year old Colt/Armalite 601 AR-15 parts kit. It covers the acquisition, cleaning, and detailed component autopsy using original US Government issue and workshop gauges. The project utilizes a Brownells retro lower receiver and includes distressing, assembly, and testing phases.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction to the Colt/Armalite 601 AR-15 Series
  2. 00:12Overview of the 60+ Year Old Parts Kit
  3. 00:34Series Plan: Overview, Acquisition, and Replacements
  4. 00:48Machine Gun Receiver vs. Brownells Retro Lower
  5. 01:04Cleaning and Restoration Process
  6. 01:16Physical Autopsy with Specialized Gauges
  7. 01:49Distressing the Lower Receiver
  8. 01:56Assembly and Testing Phases
  9. 02:00Test Firing and Range Day Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Colt/Armalite 601 AR-15 parts kit being discussed?

The Colt/Armalite 601 AR-15 parts kit is over 60 years old, representing an early iteration of the AR-15 platform. Restoring such a kit involves understanding its historical context and addressing potential wear and compliance issues for modern use.

What tools are essential for assessing the condition of vintage AR-15 components?

For a thorough assessment of vintage AR-15 components, it's recommended to use specialized tools like original US Government issue gauges. These are often supplemented by modern workshop gauges, such as those from School of the American Rifle, for comprehensive analysis.

Why is a Brownells retro lower receiver used instead of an original receiver for this build?

The original Colt 601 was a machine gun. To build a legal semi-automatic rifle for civilian ownership, a non-NFA compliant receiver is required. A Brownells retro lower receiver is chosen to maintain the vintage aesthetic while adhering to current firearm laws.

What steps are involved in restoring a vintage AR-15 parts kit?

Restoring a vintage AR-15 parts kit typically includes an overview of the kit's condition and acquisition, thorough cleaning and restoration, a detailed physical autopsy of each component using specialized gauges, distressing the lower receiver to match, assembly, and finally, rigorous testing.

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