Highly Desirable Pre-Ban PWA AR-15 (Commando) – 5.56mm NATO w/ Bushnell Optic
An excellent opportunity for collectors and residents of states with specific restrictions, this Pac West Arms (PWA) Commando offers verified pre-1994 ban status. Manufactured in Milan, Illinois, PWA forged lower receivers are legendary for their high-quality machining and mil-spec tolerances, making them incredibly sought after as the foundation for classic retro builds or reliable modern adaptations.
Currently set up in a classic, late 20th-century carbine configuration, this rifle is topped with a versatile Bushnell 3-9x scope, making it ready for the range, varmint hunting, or serving as a prized piece in an early civilian AR-15 collection.
Product Specifications
-
Manufacturer: Pac West Arms / PWA (Milan, Illinois)
-
Model: Commando (Pre-1994 Ban AR-15)
-
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO (Safely chambers and fires .223 Remington)
-
Action: Semi-Automatic, Direct Impingement
-
Capacity: 30 Rounds (Accepts all standard STANAG AR-15 magazines)
-
Barrel Length: 16-inch profile with a standard A2 “birdcage” flash hider.
-
Optic/Sights: Bushnell 3-9x40mm variable power scope (mounted via a see-through carry handle mount). Retains standard A2 front sight post and A2 adjustable rear sight.
-
Furniture: Classic CAR-15 style fiberite collapsible buttstock, A2 pistol grip, and standard round carbine-length ribbed handguards.
-
Finish: Mil-Spec hardcoat anodized black/dark gray.
Condition Report
This PWA pre-ban rifle is in very good to excellent condition, showing the typical light handling marks of a vintage, well-kept safe queen.
-
Finish: Retains roughly 90-95% of its original hardcoat anodizing. The upper and lower receiver match well in color. There is minor, typical edge wear around the magazine well, standard brass-kisses on the shell deflector, and a few light scuffs on the barrel exterior.
-
Bore: Excellent. The bore is bright, and the rifling remains sharp and well-defined. Shows no signs of excessive rapid fire or neglect.
-
Furniture: The stock, grip, and handguards are entirely intact with no cracks or major gouges. The collapsible stock extends and collapses smoothly, locking firmly into its positions.
-
Mechanics: Functions flawlessly. The bolt carrier group (BCG) shows minimal wear, and the standard mil-spec trigger breaks cleanly. The safety selector snaps into position positively.
-
Optic: The Bushnell 3-9x scope functions perfectly. The glass is clear and free of scratches, the crosshairs are crisp, and the magnification ring turns smoothly.
Included Accessories
-
Optic and Mount: Includes the mounted Bushnell 3-9x40mm scope, scope rings, and the aluminum carry-handle picatinny rail adapter.
-
Magazines: Comes with 1 period-correct, pre-ban 30-round aluminum USGI magazine with standard followers.
-
Sling: Includes a basic, vintage black nylon USGI web sling attached to the standard sling swivels.
