Pilot & Aircrew Survival Weapon by Charter Arms… (F 1092)

ARMALITE AR-7  EXPLORER

The origins of this rifle can be traced back to 1959 and the famous American firearms designer Eugene Stoner. The long-range bomber crews of the US Airforce who maintained the US program of “Iron Dome” required a survival rifle in case of ditching in the wilderness miles from nowhere.  It was also visualised as a defensive weapon that could be used to deter enemy troops at close quarter and enable escape.  This is the Charter Arms variation which is entirely finished in black – for obvious reasons and was marketed to the survivalist civilian market.  Part of the brief from the military was a compact weapon which would also float in extreme conditions.  The foam filled plastic stock addresses both of those requirements.  The foam enables it to float for some small amount of time so it could be recovered, and the stock takes all the components when disassembled and stored. This was known as the “Pack in Stock System”.

Chambered in .22 LR it operates an eight round magazine on a blowback system.  The cocking handle retracts when not in use to avoid snagging.  Aluminium action and steel barrel with shroud of the same which measures 16″ and is threaded for a moderator.  (Thread cover a/f) Overall assembled the rifle measures 35″  Packed away 16.1/2″  The action is held by a large turn-screw that runs up through the pistol-grip.

Manual safety to rear RHS of action.  Magazine release within trigger guard.  Tunnel aperture rear sight.  Dovetailed front sight blade on a ramp. The RHS of the action has the Charter Arms logo over “AR-7 EXPLORER/ STRATFORD.CONN.” and the serial number “A288602”  the rear LHS of the barrel is marked “.22 LONG RIFLE ONLY”.  The detachable rubber butt-plate is marked a the to top;- “CHARTER ARMS / STRATFORD. CONN.”  and below the serrations (for grip) “AR- 7 / EXPLORER / PATENTS PENDING.”

As mentioned above all parts of the rifle fit into the butt so it can be easily stored in your survival pack.  A fair quantity of ammunition can also be carried as small and inexpensive.  To break-down the weapon:- 1/ Remove magazine – store. 2/ Unscrew barrel by hand with large treaded collar – store. 3/ Remove action by turn-screw – store.  Replace butt cap – ready. This can all be achieved in thirty seconds with practice. and is not difficult in the dark.  Slip into side net in back pack and move off.  The perfect piece of survival kit and still a more modern piece of history.

Condition is good, action fine.  Some chipping of paint and scratching of the stock.  Otherwise wear correct for its age.  London Proofed.

Stock No F 1092

  £ 225.

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