Valuation Guides Machine Guns M16A1
Published: May 26, 2025 | Updated: February 17, 2026
The M16A1 is the classic Vietnam-era select-fire rifle, featuring improvements over the original M16 and widely issued to U.S. troops during the conflict.
Curious about how much your M16A1 select fire rifle is worth? Whether you’re looking to sell or simply understand current pricing, we’ll help you assess the market value of your firearm.
The M16A1 is one of the most ubiquitous and recognizable US small arms to have ever been manufactured. A Eugene Stoner design, the M16 is a select-fire, magazine-fed, lightweight rifle chambered in the small but lethal 5.56.mm NATO cartridge. In early stages of development, the United States Ordnance Department was very resistant to the “futuristic” design of the rifle, preferring the traditional “wood and steel” layout of the M16’s predecessors. However, when Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara laid hands on the rifle, the M16’s adoption into United States service was all but settled. Early versions of the M16 (601, 602, 603, XM16E1) were deployed to Vietnam for testing and evaluation. Through multiple improvements including the addition of a birdcage flash hider, forward assisted and chrome-lined barrel, the M16 and M16A1 were type classified and adopted (M16 going to the Airforce and the M16A1 going to the Army). The M16 would see many revisions through the decades and remains a staple in the US military today.
Origin
United States
Manufacturer
Colt, H&R, Hydramatic
Caliber
5.56×45mm NATO
Rate of Fire
700–900 rounds/min
Notable Uses
Vietnam War, Cold War-era U.S. military service
Transferable M16A1 select fire rifles are highly sought after by NFA collectors and enthusiasts. Value is influenced by originality, condition, variant type and any unique historical markings. Most examples on the market range from $24,000 to $40,000, depending on configuration and provenance.
Colt SP1 Conversions
Estimated Value: $24,000 – $30,000
M16A1 (Colt, H&R, Hydramatic)
Estimated Value: $30,000 – $40,000
Market values reviewed by Chris Wing, Lead Firearms Valuation Specialist
Originality:
Transferable M16A1s with original receivers, parts, and factory markings typically command higher prices due to their authenticity and appeal to collectors.
Condition:
Clean, well-maintained M16A1 machine guns in excellent mechanical and cosmetic condition will sell for significantly more than worn or modified examples.
Historical Markings / Provenance:
If there are markings or provenance that link your M16A1 to a specific military unit, wartime service, or historical event - collector interest and market value can greatly increase.
Restoration:
Whether your M16A1 has been refinished, restored or modified will significantly affect pricing. Original finishes are typically more desirable.
Transfer Status:
Transferrable M16A1s will hold a considerably higher value than their pre-86 or post-86 counterparts.
Receiver Type & Build Origin:
M16A1s originally manufactured as select-fire rifles on factory receivers fetch higher values compared to conversions from civilian semi-auto rifles using registered sears or trigger packs.
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