The AR-7 Explorer, chambered in .22 Long Rifle, is a firearm designed with survival and portability in mind. The original page called it another James Bond gun and focused on the rifle's takedown design, light weight, and practical novelty.
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Survival Design
This semi-automatic rifle, first developed in the late 1950s by the American firearms designer Eugene Stoner, is renowned for its unique and innovative design that makes it a standout in the survival gear category. The AR-7's hallmark is its ability to be disassembled and stored within its own stock, making it extremely portable and ideal for survival situations.
Portability
The AR-7 is a lightweight firearm, usually weighing around 3.5 pounds, which makes it easy to carry over long distances, a critical feature for a rifle designed for survival scenarios. The rifle's overall length is about 35 inches when assembled, but it breaks down to a much smaller size. The disassembled parts, including the barrel, action, and magazines, can be securely stored inside the waterproof stock, which floats, ensuring that it won't be lost if dropped in water. This feature is particularly valuable for pilots, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who might find themselves in challenging environments.
Function and Caliber
The barrel of the AR-7 is typically around 16 inches long and is made of steel lined with alloy, which provides a good balance between durability and weight. The barrel screws into the receiver, and the stock is made of impact-resistant plastic, contributing to the rifle's overall durability and resistance to the elements. The simplicity of its design means that assembly and disassembly can be done quickly and without tools, an essential feature in a survival situation.
Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, the AR-7 offers a practical balance of power and recoil, making it suitable for users of all skill levels. The .22 LR cartridge is ideal for small game hunting and pest control, which are likely needs in a survival situation. The ammunition is also widely available and affordable, allowing users to stockpile or find it relatively easily. The rifle typically comes with an 8-round magazine, which is sufficient for its intended use as a survival tool.
The AR-7's accuracy is respectable, especially considering its intended purpose. It's not designed to be a precision target rifle, but it is more than capable of hitting small game at a reasonable distance, which is crucial for a survival rifle. The sights are usually basic but effective, with some models featuring a peep sight at the rear and a blade front sight.
Variants and History
Over the years, the AR-7 has seen various iterations and has been manufactured by different companies, including Armalite, Charter Arms, and Henry Repeating Arms. Each manufacturer has introduced its own modifications and improvements while maintaining the core features that define the AR-7: portability, ease of use, and reliability in survival situations.
In summary, the AR-7 Explorer chambered in .22 Long Rifle is a lightweight, portable, and practical firearm designed for survival. Its ability to be disassembled and stored within its own stock, along with its durability and simplicity, make it an excellent choice for individuals who need a reliable firearm in unpredictable environments. Whether for a pilot's emergency kit, a backpacking trip, or a preparedness-minded individual, the AR-7 represents an ingenious solution to the challenge of staying armed and ready in a survival scenario.
From Russia, With Love
In the 1963 film "From Russia with Love", Bond brings down a helicopter with this gun. I knew right then I had to have one. Interestingly, George Stoner, the guy who invented the M-16 also invented this gun. It's intended use is as a weapon for foraging or defense in a wilderness emergency. And accuracy is good enough for hunting small game at 50 yards. So yes, get one to throw in your backpack or stow in your ATV, but be mindful of the magazine because the feed ramp, which is part of the magazine is easily damaged.
Collector Takeaway
I consider my gun mostly a novelty. It is neat that it will breakdown and fit in a backpack.
For collectors, the AR-7 story is a blend of survival-rifle practicality, Eugene Stoner design history, pop-culture recognition, and manufacturer variations. Magazine condition, proper stock storage, markings, and completeness are important details to preserve.
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About Greg Cook
Greg Cook writes about firearms collecting, personal history, and the stories behind interesting guns. His Army MOS was 76Y, Unit Armorer, and he brings that practical background to his collector articles.