Pre-Ban Valuation Guide Daewoo K1A1
Published: December 20, 2025 | Updated: December 20, 2025
The Daewoo K1A1 is a compact Korean military-pattern rifle imported into the U.S. in limited numbers prior to the 1989 import ban. Value is driven primarily by originality, overall condition, and the presence of factory accessories and documentation.
Pre-ban pricing is driven by documented production era and how closely the rifle remains period-correct. Small details like markings, original parts, and finish can materially change value.
Want to compare more models? Browse the full pre-ban valuation guide.
The Daewoo K1A1 was developed as a lightweight carbine for South Korean military use and imported into the U.S. in limited quantities before the 1989 import ban. Civilian pre-ban examples are semi-automatic and closely resemble the military pattern. Collector interest centers on rifles that remain unmodified and retain original configuration, with additional premiums for boxed examples with factory accessories.
Origin
South Korea
Manufacturer
Daewoo Precision Industries
Platform
K1 series
Caliber
5.56 NATO / .223 Rem
Action
Semi-automatic, gas-operated
Production Era
Pre-1989 import
Notable Pre-Ban Traits
Compact configuration, original Korean manufacture, limited U.S. importation
Pre-ban Daewoo K1A1 rifles are valued for their documented era and how closely they remain period-correct. Most examples range from $2,500 to $3,000, depending on originality, condition, and demand in restricted states.
Pre-ban note: For the Daewoo K1A1, pre-ban status refers to rifles imported prior to the March 14, 1989 import ban. Verified pre-ban examples are collectible due to limited availability.
Tip: photos of receiver markings, overall configuration, and any documentation help us move faster and price more accurately.
Pre-ban Daewoo K1A1 values vary based on originality and configuration. The ranges below reflect how collectors typically group these rifles in today’s market.
Standard Configuration
Original configuration without box or accessories
Estimated Value: $2,500 – $2,500
Collector Grade
Includes original box and factory accessories
Estimated Value: $2,500 – $3,000
Collector notes: Collector demand is strongest for Daewoo K1A1 rifles that remain unmodified and include original box, manuals, sling, or other factory accessories. Documentation and completeness materially affect value.
Original Configuration:
Rifles that remain in factory configuration typically receive stronger offers than modified examples.
Condition & Finish:
Original finish with minimal wear is preferred. Heavy cosmetic damage or refinishing can reduce value.
Collector Completeness:
Original box, manuals, and accessories can significantly increase collector demand and pricing.
Import Era Verification:
Clear documentation or markings supporting pre-1989 import status help confirm eligibility and value.
Usually fast, but most shops have limited cash on hand and may not specialize in older, rare or high-value pieces.
Offers often favor a quick resale, not the long-term collector value.
Potential upside, but you wait for the sale, pay commissions and still carry uncertainty around final prices and timelines.
Can take months, involve strangers and require you to manage listings, messages and transfers one gun at a time. For estates, that can add stress to an already heavy situation.
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With pre-ban firearms, value is defined by documented production era, configuration, and originality. Small details materially affect pricing, and accurate valuation requires familiarity with how collectors buy these rifles today.
Our team evaluates every pre-ban firearm individually. We do not rely on automated pricing or assumptions. Each offer is grounded in real details and current market demand, reflecting how these firearms are actually valued when money changes hands.
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