While all but forgotten compared with its illustrious cousin, the AR-15, in the annals of military firearms, the AR-18 stands as a beacon of ingenuity and sheer dogged perseverance. Coming out of ArmaLite in the 1960s as a more affordable alternative to the AR-15 itself, developed into the iconic M16, the backbone of the United States military, the AR-18 was born.
Although no military or constabulary forces have adopted the AR-18 design, it would be erroneous to minimize its impact on modern firearms. Designed after Eugene Stoner’s AR-15, it was envisioned the AR-18 would become a rifle able to be produced with stamped and welded steel parts, thus making it cheaper and easier to manufacture. Chambered for 5.56mm NATO, the AR-18 used a then-new short-stroke gas piston system and innovated the folding stock.
Despite these innovations, the AR-18 failed to win any large contracts. Historical accounts indicate that quality problems with early production, a lack of funding from the military-industrial complex, and convoluted import/export restrictions conspired against it. The AR-18, however, found an unexpected place in history during the Northern Ireland conflict, known as “The Troubles.” It was taken up by the Provisional IRA, and easiness of use as well as reliability quickly gained it praise. The rifle became one of the symbols of resistance—there were even folk songs composed about it, and the gun became part of the IRA’s version of the “ArmaLite and ballot box strategy” throughout the 1980s.
The AR-18 also saw service in several other conflicts, with its robustness recognized by both national militaries and guerrilla groups. Its DNA shows through in several contemporary military rifles—not least of which include the British SA80/L85 bullpup series and Japan’s Howa Type 89. Modern firearms like the SIG MCX and the Model 516 carry their design elements right through to this day, underlining their enduring influence.
Over the past few years, interest in the semi-automatic variant of the AR-18, the AR-180, has increased. The WK180-C is a contemporary successor to the AR-180B, manufactured by Canada, holding a good deal of its begetter’s architecture, yet staying in line with other accessories and parts made for the AR-15. In all, it maintained a gas piston operation system of its precursor and caused quite a commotion, particularly in the U.S. market.
From an unknown rifle to a huge factor in modern firearm design, the AR-18’s journey is a story of ingenuity and adaptability. It cannot be derogated that it failed commercially, much like the AR-15 did, but its innovations and contributions to firearm technology are undeniable. Its place in the annals of military history is well secured.