One of the earliest examples manufactured by Howa in Japan for ArmaLite, this rifle features a three prong flash hider, post front sight on the gas block, plastic ventilated forearm, smooth plastic grip and folding stock. The stamped steel upper receiver is marked "ARMALITE AR-180 CAL. 5.56mm -S000250/FOR ARMALITE INC. COSTA MESA CALIF./mfg by HOWA JAPAN PATENTS PENDING". The misalignment of the "0" in "AR-180" and 180 degree safety are features which set apart the early Howa manufactured rifles apart from the rest of AR-180 production.