Weird 1980's AR - Sendra Lower/Colt Chopped Upper/Rhinoliner Coating?

Published on July 1, 2022
Duration: 15:12

This video explores a unique 1980s custom AR-15 build featuring a Sendra XM15 A1 lower and a Colt A1 upper with a chopped carry handle. The presenter details the acquisition of the rifle, its unusual Rhino Liner-like coating, and the historical context of early AR customization before widespread aftermarket support. The build highlights common practices of the era, such as modifying uppers for optics and using triangular handguards, offering insights into the evolution of the AR platform.

Quick Summary

This 1980s custom AR-15 features a rare Sendra XM15 A1 lower and a Colt A1 upper with a chopped carry handle, reflecting early AR customization practices before widespread aftermarket support. Its unique textured coating and historical context make it a significant piece of AR-15 evolution.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the 1980s AR Build
  2. 01:32Acquisition and Seller's Story
  3. 02:13Identifying the Sendra Lower
  4. 03:01Early AR Customization in the 1980s
  5. 04:02The Unusual Coating: Rhino Liner?
  6. 04:48Sendra XM15 A1 Lower Details
  7. 05:33Commercial Buffer Tube and No Stock
  8. 06:16Colt A1 Upper and Chopped Carry Handle
  9. 07:15Mounting Optics in the 1980s
  10. 08:16Triangular Handguard and Barrel Profile
  11. 09:21DTA Mill Break Muzzle Device
  12. 10:28Period Correct Features and Build
  13. 10:48Magazine Issues and Bolt Hold Open
  14. 11:30Bubba Builds vs. Professional Builds
  15. 12:00Pre-Banned Lower Value
  16. 12:22Potential Star Wars Build Idea
  17. 12:55Historical Significance and Conclusion
  18. 13:47The Sendra/Bushmaster Connection

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this AR-15 a unique 1980s build?

This AR-15 is a unique 1980s build due to its Sendra XM15 A1 lower, a company prominent in early custom AR manufacturing. It also features a Colt A1 upper with a chopped carry handle, a common modification for optics mounting before flat-top receivers were standard.

What is the unusual coating on this AR-15?

The rifle has an unusual textured coating, described as similar to bed liner or wrinkled paint, possibly applied as an 'Arctic warfare' finish for grip and protection. The exact material is uncertain but it's applied to the receivers and barrel.

Why is the AR-15 missing its stock?

The AR-15 is missing its stock because it is fitted with a commercial buffer tube and receiver extension, not a mil-spec one. The presenter, who primarily uses mil-spec components, did not have a compatible stock available.

What is the historical significance of Sendra in AR-15 manufacturing?

Sendra was a key player in the early 1980s AR-15 market, providing uppers and lowers when factory options were limited. Their operation was eventually sold to a company that became Bushmaster, making Sendra lowers precursors to early Bushmaster models.

More from Booligan Shooting Sports

View all →