Colt 601: The AR-15 Becomes a Military Rifle

Published on December 25, 2019
Duration: 22:52

The Colt 601, the first production AR-15, evolved from the AR-10 and ArmaLite's trials. Its sale to Colt in 1959 for $75,000 paved the way for military adoption, initially by the Air Force after a key demonstration. Key differences from later M16 variants include green furniture, a smooth receiver, and the absence of a forward assist on early models.

Quick Summary

The Colt 601 was the first production AR-15, evolving from ArmaLite's designs and sold to Colt in 1959. It featured green furniture and lacked a forward assist, distinguishing it from later M16 variants. Its adoption was significantly influenced by a demonstration for General Curtis LeMay.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt 601 & ArmaLite Origins
  2. 01:24The Sale of AR-15 Rights to Colt
  3. 03:40Marketing the AR-15 in Asia
  4. 05:22General LeMay and the Watermelon Demo
  5. 08:27Adoption and Vietnam Deployment
  6. 12:21Colt 601 to M16: Technical Evolution
  7. 17:22Detailed Part Comparisons: 601 vs. M16
  8. 19:52Internal & Magazine Changes

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Colt 601?

The Colt 601 was the first production model of the AR-15 rifle, developed from ArmaLite's designs. It featured green furniture and was initially adopted by the U.S. Air Force before wider military use.

How did Colt acquire the AR-15?

Colt purchased the rights to the AR-15 from ArmaLite in 1959 for $75,000 plus royalties. This deal occurred because ArmaLite's parent company, Fairchild, faced financial difficulties.

What were key differences between the Colt 601 and later M16s?

The Colt 601 had green furniture and a smooth receiver without a forward assist. Later M16 variants, like the XM16E1, introduced black furniture and the forward assist feature at the Army's request.

What role did General Curtis LeMay play in the AR-15's adoption?

General LeMay, then Air Force Chief of Staff, was impressed by a demonstration of the AR-15, reportedly involving watermelons at his birthday party. This event spurred formal Air Force interest in adopting the rifle.

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