Should I step into the FAL world ?

[ramairthree]

I like guns.
I have too many.
Part is I like collecting.
Part is I like shooting.
Part is I like working on things.

For rifles,
My preference is the AR.
My second is the AK.
I occasionally get something different, like a SIG 556.

I am usually disappointed with something like an UZI, HK91, Garand, M1 carbine, AUG, FN-49, SVD, etc.
They fall into the very cool to want, neat to have, but a pain in the ass to set up, run, sight in, etc.
I like them and they are cool, but end up being more of a toy to play with than a useful tool.

I have not scratched the itch on many things, like a SS folding stock mini 14, M14, FAL, etc. Because of this.

But,
If I were to do so with a FAL,
What would be a good model, version to look into.

[Fuzzy-Reticle]

The only problem with owning a quality FAL is the cost of feeding it 7.62 NATO.

The DSA Voyager would not be a bad choice for a first FAL.

I would look around for a gently used DSA STG58. They were my favorite FAL built on a great receiver and what was IMHO great parts and barrels.

You can spend a fortune on an original FN but they are extremely nice.

The FAL is a great battle rifle with some interesting history. Worth owning at least one in your lifetime. If you hate it flip it for something else that's interesting to you.

[mpardun]

Then you may like this...DSA SA58 (FAL), 100% USA made, 16" fluted & crowned barrel, CNC'd stainless receiver, paratrooper stock, Pic rail & dust cover. Shoots .75 MOA easily.

A beast Battle Rifle, but still like my AR's more!

IMG_1448.JPG

Bad news, scratching this itch cost >$3k before optics.

[mic2377]

I have one. I like it. It is fun to shoot with modest recoil, and it has been exceptionally reliable.

The choices are limited. You could find one built on an old kit with a good receiver. The other choice is DSA. If I were to pick a configuration, it would be an 18" barrel with standard gas system. The Para folders are pretty neat too
, but not everyone likes that style stock. They are very solid.

Overall they are good, solid, easy to maintain system, but somewhat outmoded by the latest generation of rifles (IE SCAR). It is also tough for them to match the accuracy and refinement of AR's.

That being said I still like mine and it was a nice addition to the collection.

[Kyohte]

I like the FAL, but it certainly shows its age in everything. The cost of a mediocre FAL (DSA Voyager) and magazines (~$30 for good surplus) is tough for a lot of people to stomach. This is especially painful when you realize most basic AR-10 variants will out shoot it. No rifle has given me fits like DSA FALs, but they can usually be made reliable without too much swearing. As far as "setting one up", there is only 1 option for a scope mount. There aren't a lot of stock or grip options anymore. The factory "Belgian Short" muzzle device is fine.

Stick with 18-21" for your first FAL. 16" examples are more susceptible to problems. I don't like the DSA short gas system. It's proprietary to DSA.

Unfortunately, the FAL ship has sailed and quality parts (i.e. Foreign) are becoming scarce.

Avoid any Century build unless built on an Imbel receiver. Those are salvageable by a good FAL-smith. Century FALs built on Century receivers should be avoided entirely. Entreprise Imbels are 50/50.

Edit: This isn't to discourage you. They're actually my favorite rifle to shoot. But just like shooting an AK compared to an AR, you quickly realize (and adapt) to its faults.

[Pikey]

I would say buy one. Take a look at DSA and find a model that you like. Take it out and shoot it. You will know right away if you like it or not. If not sell it and move on. The experience will be worth the price.

The biggest problem with the FAL, other then the price of ammo, is that DSA is the only one making new parts and rifles. They are not the worst but with lack of competition they are not the best.

I have used parts kits to build my own. If you enjoy projects that could be an option. But decent kits are getting hard to find and expensive. Although Imbel receivers turn up on gun broker from time to time.

I'm considering selling my fal and parts kits to buy a 308 bolt action. I just don't have enough ammo stock piled to take advantage of 308.

[Firefly]

I'm torn.

One of my fondest memories of gun ownership was an STG-58. But I dunno if I would really get back into FALs again.

15 years ago was the time for FALs. Now....ehh. I remember paying $10 for steel FAL mags and now...not so much.

If you have a good, classic FAL, keep it. Otherwise you are gonna spend nigh 2k on a decentish FAL. I'd almost say try to get a SCAR or some other 308 AR.

I'm biased a bit, but the time has kinda come and gone.

JMO

[QuickStrike]

^ Couldn't I get an Imbel receiver and kit for around $1,000 and have Arizona Response assemble and refinish it for less than $2k?


Been jonesin' for an all metal battle rifle lately.

[SteyrAUG]

^ Couldn't I get an Imbel receiver and kit for around $1,000 and have Arizona Response assemble and refinish it for less than $2k?


Been jonesin' for an all metal battle rifle lately.

Probably not anymore. 10 years ago definitely.

[Firefly]

FWIW if I had a pristine STG-58 kit, an excellent receiver, and a pile of mags.....and the time and money....I might dip my toes back in just for that one.

It had a wood stock, imbel receiver and Steyr parts. It remains one of my biggest regrets. It wasn't perfect, and it wasn't super accurate (but accurate for what it was) and was a blast to shoot.

It was my first evil gun and I stupidly traded it.

If I ever get another FAL it would simply be to try and reclaim my old collection.

Never trade stuff you like and never panic buy. Two hard won lessons.

I would say rent or borrow a FAL. You kinda have to grow up in it. Otherwise you'll see the flaws over minuses. Also SA ammo and DAG ammo has kinda dried up so....

for a grand more you could get a SCAR which is still in the FN lineage.