Description
There are few military arms that command instant recognition and reverence quite like the Browning Automatic Rifle, and this Ohio Ordnance / Colt M1918 BAR stands as a faithful tribute to one of the most iconic battle rifles ever fielded.
Originally conceived by John Moses Browning during the closing chapters of World War I, the M1918 BAR earned its place in history through sheer battlefield effectiveness. Carried from the trenches of Europe through the Pacific theater and beyond, the BAR became synonymous with American firepower, resilience, and industrial might. This Ohio Ordnance semi-automatic example captures that same spirit while offering collectors a historically significant platform that can be owned, displayed, and appreciated in a private collection.
Crafted with period-correct attention to detail, this rifle features a beautifully finished steel receiver paired with classic walnut furniture. The matte metalwork presents with a subdued military aesthetic, contrasted by the warmth and texture of the wood stock and forearm. The checkered forearm provides both visual depth and authentic handling character, while the properly profiled barrel assembly, front sight block, and gas system echo the original service configuration.
The rifle is chambered in the legendary .30-06 Springfield cartridge, an American classic in its own right, further reinforcing the platform’s historic military pedigree.
Historical Significance
Few firearms bridge the gap between battlefield legacy and collector prestige like the M1918 BAR. Its silhouette is unmistakable. Its service record is legendary. And its influence on military small-arms doctrine remains profound.
From the hands of American doughboys in 1918 to its continued use through World War II and the Korean War, the BAR symbolized mobile automatic firepower at a time when warfare was rapidly evolving. Even in semi-automatic form, the platform retains that commanding presence—both mechanically and visually.
