About 10 years ago, I bought a highly used... And abused Colt AR-15 SP1 rifle with the Coltguard finish that was worn in numerous areas.   The upper receiver is dinged and gouged in a few areas where, IMHO, is beyond saving.

The lower receiver is in very good condition, but the finish is very worn.

Anyway, I have a replacement Colt SP1 upper receiver and I’m thinking of having it refinished in a DuraCoat/CeraKote finish in a Coltguard nickel/silver finish.  If there isn’t a close DuraCoat/CeraKote finish to match the original Coltguard, I’d push forward with “Plan B,” which is to have it refinished in an early/mid 80s Colt gray.

Not looking to have it “pimped out in bright/polished silver, but seeking the original flat/mat nickel-like finish.

Does either DuraCoat or CeraKote have a finish that’s a close match to the original Colt finish?

I bought it for $450-$500, due to its condition and at the time, figured that I was still in the “green” if I ended up parting out the rifle.  But, in this current climate, I want to either have her restored to something close to the original Coltguard or simply just have it refinished in a period correct Colt gray.

Yes, I know that either way, the collector value is greatly lessen, but in her current condition, she’s basically screwed as well, so it is what it is.

Heck, if I do end up going with “Plan B,” I’m thinking of adding a Colt A1 upper receiver with the forward assist.

Thanks for any thoughts and information on bringing her back into her glory!!

I have a Coltguard AR15 and after seeing them sell for upwards of $3500 I'd find send it off and have it refinished in electroless nickel. A search shows a company in Pennsylvania that charges $175 for long guns.

Edit-I'd strip it down first to preserve the black parts.