The Ultimate Guide To ArmaLite Single Barrel Shotguns: History, Specs, And Collector Value
The name ArmaLite is synonymous with revolutionary firearm design, primarily recognized for the development of the AR-10 and the ubiquitous AR-15. However, hidden within the company's storied history is a fascinating venture into the world of sporting firearms: the ArmaLite single barrel shotgun, specifically the AR-17. While many shooters associate the brand strictly with tactical or military applications, the AR-17 represents a period of intense experimentation in the 1960s where the company attempted to apply aerospace materials and radical engineering to the civilian hunting and clay shooting market.
The AR-17 was not just another shotgun; it was a testament to the "space-age" philosophy of the Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation, ArmaLite’s parent company at the time. Developed in the mid-1960s, this 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun featured a single barrel and a two-shot capacity, designed to be the lightest and most technologically advanced shotgun of its era. Understanding the ArmaLite single barrel shotgun requires a deep dive into the metallurgy and mechanical innovations that made it a cult classic among collectors today.
For the modern enthusiast, finding an ArmaLite AR-17 is like finding a piece of forgotten history. Only about 1,200 to 2,000 units were ever produced before the project was shelved. Its failure to capture the mainstream market wasn't due to a lack of quality, but rather because it was perhaps too far ahead of its time. The shooting public of the 1960s was accustomed to heavy steel and walnut; the AR-17 gave them aluminum and "golden" finishes.
The Engineering Genius Behind the AR-17
The primary innovation of the ArmaLite AR-17 single barrel shotgun was its extensive use of 7075-T6 aluminum. This was the same high-strength alloy used in the AR-15 receivers, and ArmaLite chose to use it for the barrel of the AR-17 as well. To ensure the barrel could withstand the pressures of a 12-gauge shell, it was fitted with a thin steel liner. This construction allowed the shotgun to weigh a mere 5.5 pounds, which was practically unheard of for a semi-automatic 12-gauge at the time.
Beyond the materials, the AR-17 utilized a short-recoil operating system. Unlike gas-operated systems that bleed off gas to cycle the action, the AR-17’s barrel and bolt recoiled together for a short distance before unlocking. This system was incredibly clean-running compared to the gas systems of the day. The bolt featured a multi-lug rotating head that locked directly into the barrel extension, a design choice that mirrored the architecture of the AR-15 and ensured a very strong lockup.
The aesthetic of the shotgun was just as radical as its internals. Most AR-17s featured a distinct "gold" or "champagne" hard-anodized finish on the receiver and barrel, earning it the nickname "The Golden Gun." It came with interchangeable choke tubes—a rarity in the 1960s—and used a high-impact plastic for the stock and forend. Every aspect of the gun was designed to minimize weight and maximize weather resistance, making it an ideal upland bird gun for hunters who spent all day on their feet.
Technical Specifications and Performance Data
When analyzing the ArmaLite single barrel shotgun, it is helpful to compare it against its contemporary rivals to understand why it was such a departure from traditional norms. The following table highlights the technical specifications of the AR-17 compared to a standard steel-receiver shotgun of that era.
| Feature | ArmaLite AR-17 | Typical 1960s Semi-Auto (e.g., Remington 1100) |
|---|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs | 7.5 - 8.0 lbs |
| Barrel Material | Aluminum with Steel Liner | Solid Steel |
| Action Type | Short Recoil / Inertia | Gas Operated |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds (1 in chamber, 1 in mag) | 3 to 5 Rounds |
| Standard Finish | Gold/Black Hard Anodized | Blued Steel |
| Stock Material | High-Impact Polymer | Walnut Wood |
| Choke System | Interchangeable Tubes | Fixed Choke |
The performance of the AR-17 was polarizing. Because the shotgun was so lightweight, the felt recoil was significantly sharper than that of a heavier, gas-operated gun. While the short-recoil system was reliable, the physical sensation of shooting 12-gauge magnum loads out of a 5.5-pound gun was enough to deter some casual shooters. However, for the serious upland hunter who valued "carry-ability" over rapid-fire volume, the AR-17 was an unmatched tool.
The two-shot capacity was a deliberate design choice. ArmaLite marketed the gun toward "gentleman hunters" and skeet shooters who rarely needed more than two shots. By limiting the magazine to a single round plus one in the chamber, they were able to keep the profile of the gun slim and the weight centered between the hands, leading to a very fast-pointing firearm that felt more like a 20-gauge or 28-gauge in terms of maneuverability.
Two Break Action Single Barrel Shotguns | Rock Island Auction
Pros and Cons of the ArmaLite Single Barrel Design
Evaluating the ArmaLite single barrel shotgun requires looking at it through two lenses: its functional utility as a firearm and its value as a historical collectible. From a functional standpoint, the extreme light weight is its greatest asset and its biggest drawback. If you are hiking miles through heavy brush for pheasant or quail, the AR-17 is a dream to carry. However, if you are spending a full day at a trap range, the recoil fatigue will set in much faster than with a traditional shotgun.
Pros:
- Incredible Portability: At 5.5 pounds, it remains one of the lightest 12-gauge semi-autos ever produced.
- Corrosion Resistance: The hard-anodized aluminum and polymer furniture make it nearly immune to the rust issues that plague steel and wood guns in damp environments.
- Unique Aesthetics: The "Golden Gun" finish is a conversation starter and a standout in any collection.
- Innovative Choke System: The inclusion of interchangeable chokes was decades ahead of the industry standard.
Cons:
- Significant Recoil: The lack of mass means the shooter's shoulder absorbs the majority of the energy.
- Limited Capacity: The 2-shot limit is a dealbreaker for waterfowlers or those used to standard 5-round tubes.
- Rarity of Parts: Because so few were made, finding replacement springs, chokes, or internal components is extremely difficult and expensive.
- Investment Cost: Due to its rarity, the AR-17 commands a premium price on the secondary market.
Collector’s Guide: What to Look for When Buying
If you are in the market for an ArmaLite AR-17, you must be a diligent researcher. These guns were produced in two main finishes: the famous gold/champagne and a more traditional black anodized version. The gold versions are generally more sought after by collectors. When inspecting a potential purchase, pay close attention to the condition of the anodizing. Unlike blued steel, which can be re-blued, repairing worn or scratched hard-coat anodizing on aluminum is a specialized and expensive process that can often ruin the collector value if not done perfectly.
Check the barrel liner for any signs of separation or bulging. While the aluminum outer sleeve is robust, the internal steel liner must be perfectly seated to ensure safety. Furthermore, ensure that the original choke tubes are included. The AR-17 used a proprietary thread pattern, and finding aftermarket chokes for a 60-year-old experimental shotgun is nearly impossible. A complete set usually includes "Skeet" and "Modified" or "Full" tubes.
Finally, verify the integrity of the polymer furniture. The 1960s-era plastics can become brittle over time if exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme UV light. Look for hairline cracks around the wrist of the stock or the forend attachment points. A pristine AR-17 with its original box and paperwork can fetch significant sums at high-end firearm auctions, often exceeding the price of modern high-performance semi-automatics.
Maintenance and Care for Your ArmaLite Shotgun
Maintaining an ArmaLite single barrel shotgun requires a different approach than a standard Remington or Winchester. Because the receiver and barrel are aluminum, you must avoid using aggressive alkaline cleaners that can strip or damage the anodized finish. Instead, use high-quality synthetic oils and neutral solvents. The short-recoil system should be kept relatively dry; over-lubricating the barrel extension can attract grit, which acts like sandpaper against the aluminum surfaces.
Periodically inspect the recoil spring located in the stock. If the spring has weakened over the decades, the bolt may slam into the rear of the receiver with excessive force, potentially causing cracks in the aluminum or the polymer stock. Replacing this spring is a cheap insurance policy to preserve the longevity of the firearm. Since parts are not readily available, many collectors choose to have a gunsmith fabricate a modern replacement spring if the original shows signs of compression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ArmaLite AR-17 safe to shoot with modern 12-gauge shells? Yes, the AR-17 was designed for standard 2¾-inch 12-gauge shells. However, due to its light weight and age, it is recommended to avoid high-brass magnum loads or heavy turkey loads. Stick to standard target or field loads to preserve the frame and reduce felt recoil.
Why did ArmaLite stop producing shotguns? ArmaLite’s core business was military contracts. The AR-17 was an attempt to diversify, but the civilian market in the 1960s was very conservative. The high price point and radical appearance didn't resonate with hunters at the time, leading the company to refocus its efforts on its rifle platforms.
How many rounds does the ArmaLite AR-17 hold? The AR-17 is a 2-shot shotgun. It holds one round in the magazine tube and one in the chamber. This was intended to keep the weight down and maintain a slim profile.
Can I change the chokes on an ArmaLite single barrel shotgun? Yes, the AR-17 was one of the first semi-auto shotguns to feature a screw-in choke system. However, the chokes are proprietary to ArmaLite and are not compatible with modern systems like RemChoke or Beretta/Benelli threads.
What is the "Golden Gun" finish made of? The finish is a hard-coat anodizing process. It is not gold plating but rather an electrochemical process that hardens the surface of the aluminum and dyes it a metallic gold/champagne color for both aesthetics and corrosion resistance.
Experience the Legacy of Innovation
The ArmaLite single barrel shotgun remains a fascinating chapter in the history of American firearms. It represents a time when engineers weren't afraid to challenge every convention of gun design, from the materials used to the very way a shotgun should look and feel. Whether you are a dedicated collector of ArmaLite history or a hunter looking for a unique piece of functional art, the AR-17 offers a shooting experience unlike anything else.
If you happen to find one of these rare "Golden Guns" at a local shop or auction, take the time to appreciate the craftsmanship. It is a reminder that ArmaLite was always about more than just "black rifles"—they were pioneers of the modern era.
Are you looking to add a rare piece of history to your collection? Start your search at reputable firearm auction houses or specialized vintage dealers today to find your own ArmaLite AR-17!
