[SHOT 2026] Colt AR Pistols - Two New 5.56 SKUs with Lower Variants

Colt brought two new AR pistol SKUs to SHOT 2026, both launching in 5.56 NATO with different lower receiver options. We stopped by the booth and got details on what separates these variants and what's coming down the pipeline for color options.

The two models give buyers a choice between an ambidextrous Colt M5 lower or a standard mil-spec M4 lower. Both pistols ship in black, but Colt made one significant change to avoid legal confusion: they removed carbine markings from the lowers. This was done to address potential misunderstandings among new AR pistol consumers.

Pricing wasn't finalized at the booth. Colt reps said it'll likely drop within a week, so expect an announcement soon after SHOT dust settles.

The ambidextrous M5 lower gives you controls on both sides of the receiver, which matters if you're running the pistol from unconventional positions or shooting support-side. The mil-spec lower keeps things simple for shooters who don't need ambi controls and want to save money on the lower.

The cold folks sounded excited about what the CZ acquisition opened up for them. While they didn't give specifics at the booth, the tone suggested expanded manufacturing capabilities and potentially faster product development cycles. CZ's resources backing Colt's legacy designs could mean we see more variants and faster turnaround on new SKUs going forward.

The future anodized FDE option caught attention. Colt has traditionally stuck with black or their classic gray anodizing, so branching into earth tones shows they're paying attention to what buyers actually want. If FDE sells well, expect more colors to follow.

These pistols target shooters who want a Colt-marked AR pistol without building one from parts. The lower marking change shows Colt is thinking about compliance and consumer education, not just pushing product out the door.

Are you interested in a Colt AR pistol with the ambi M5 lower or sticking with mil-spec? Let us know in the comments below.