Posted a question in GD for a quick response...forgot about the retro forum.



http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=1&f=5&t=1126588&page=1&#26114313



Long story short, local guy wants 890 for an SP1 with an SN in the 3 digit range. I have no idea about the upper, how much of the gun is original, etc. What should I look for? Is it a buy even if it's been molested to some extent? Gun looked reasonable but has some finish wear.

Anything that you can have me look for would be great.

Thanks very much!

It sounds like a hell of a deal. I would jump on it too. I would be weary of a fake though.

http://98.196.65.94/retroblackrifle/

http://98.196.65.94/retroblackrifle/

We don't really discuss values here, but in general terms...yes, there is a demand for low SN rifles.  And, if you consider the average going price of any run-of-the-mill SP1, this isn't much higher than that...  
So let's say there's a worst-case scenario here...say it's the 3 digit lower, but everything else has been replaced with newer (less collectible) parts.  For the price, you'd still be getting a working SP1 including the 3-digit number––so I'd start looking at condition.  If the rifle is in good condition, you would be at least buying a good "shooter" that happens to have a 3-digit receiver.  

Having that lower would give you the option of restoring the rifle to its original condition.  You could start shopping for any early parts that might be missing.

If you get really lucky and the whole rifle is original...cool!
If you get a little lucky and only a few parts have been replaced...still cool!
And if you get the worst case scenario and it's all new except the lower...still not too bad!

Maybe I'm rambling...so here's my simple advice:  if it's in good condition, I'd grab it––even if it's not 100% correct.  They are not making any more 3-digit lowers.

Thanks for the information guys,  going to look at it in the morning.

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If you can afford it I'd nab any reasonably priced 3 digit SP1s.
It is worth what you're willing to spend.

I'd say grab it if into AR's or even selling parts.  Should be right collectible if original as it should have lots of early parts.  Seen quite a few SP-1's this year but no three digits.  A couple of early 4 digits though.  Sounds like a nice find.  Original would be dimple pins, edgewater buffer,  early buffer tube, early chrome BCG, firing pin and retainer, early marked barrel and gas tube and early handguards. If you don't know what these parts look like check retroblackrifle for pictures. Lots of good parts but as stated would also make a very nice collectible rifle even if parts had been replaced which is probably unlikely on such an early serial number. Good find and price..

No mater what the ser# or if all original its worth much more then that. grab it. I happily paid $1000 for my '82

That is a great deal, unless it is trashed and then I would have to think about it.