FNAR 7.62×51mm
FN have a new 7.62×51mm (.308) autoloader called the FNAR. It is only available in 7.62×51mm and comes in two models Light barrel and Heavy barrel. It uses AR-10 magazines. (UPDATE: Owners report AR-10 magazines CANNOT be used).
FNAR Light
The FNAR puts autoloading speed and bolt-action accuracy in your hands. Every FNAR rifle must meet a 1 MOA or better accuracy specification, just like the FN SPR precision rifles. The receiver is constructed of aircraft grade alloy for light weight and strength. The fluted barrel is offered in a choice of light or heavy contours and features a hard chrome lining and recessed target crown for accuracy and long life.
The action looks like it is based on the Browning BAR (not to be confused with the Browning Automatic RIfle, which is completely different), a sporting auto-loader. Browning is owned by FN.
Browning BAR Light
These excellent photos were take by TalonArms.com
I have handled one of these and I can say fit and finish are up to FN Herstals great quality standards. This will make a great medium sniper rifle, and with magazines in from 5 to 30 rounds it will enable firepower if needed.
SHould I buy? or convert m existing BAR?
I have not heard of a conversion kit.
I would also be surprised if they made one available. This rifle is marketed to law enforcement and the military. They don’t want their “not evil” hunting rifle to be associated with “black” rifles.
They are already for sale at my local gun store. 1399.00 is the going price for the Light and Heavy version. Both are 7.62 Nato caliber.
I just sprung for one, it ships tomorrow. I didn’t need or even want a new rifle, but when I saw this and talked to some knowlegable folks in September, I knew I had to have it. They are shooting into 1/2 groups. I like the look, not too “evil”, but just tactical enough to command respect. The .308 caliber is a hole that needed filling in my gun locker. Dan
This is a very interesting rifle.
I’ve heard it told both ways concerning magazines though.
Some have stated it “WILL” accept AR-10 mags and some
say it WILL NOT and that the bolt hold open on an AR-10
mag is on the opposite side as the FNAR mag????
I don’t know but would like a definitive answer as I’m
interested in buying one of these FN rifles.
Thanks.
Mike, contact FNH-USA, they will know.
I bought an FNAR yesterday. I own an AR-10 and several M1A rifles. The AR-10 and M1A mags do not fit the FNAR. Oh well…
The $125.00 rebate will buy you 2 and leave you with change.
I’m sorry but the last thing I need is a less-than-accurate BAR with a black stock and pistol grip all at an inflated price … to each his (her?) own, I guess.
Sam —
What makes you say the rifle is less than accurate? From what I have read, it is *quite* accurate.
Dave
Sam & Dave — Both Browning & FN have excellent reputations… the accuracy on the FNAR is guaranteed 1 MOA or better… and with my BAR I consistently outshoot my friends with their customized Rem 700s (we’re all military)… granted this is based solely on personal experience, but I’d fault the shooter long before I’d fault a properly maintained BAR… switching gears, I wished the stock folded like on the SCAR. –Shane
I Purchased a Browning BAR in 243 this fall, it was made by FN. I shoot 1/2 inch groups at 200yds consistantly off a sand bag. I like this new FNAR, can anyone tell me how the 308 recoil on this rifle is, as far as effecting accuaracy in rapid fire with the 20 round mag. Thanks
I bought one at the end of December, and I can tell you that it is extremely accurate. The recoil is not even worth mention. Compared to the other rifle I mainly shoot, a Ruger Mark II 7mm .08, it is unnoticeable. Now I’m just waiting for aftermarket companies to make some interesting parts.
Anyone found a source of clips for the FNAR. I have looked high and low and none are to be found so far.
When I bought the fnar 308 it says to clean it before I fire it, so I did and to my great dissapointment one of the screw pins broke during reasembly. I hardly put any pressure on it. My dissapointment is in how cheaply the pin was made, almost like it was supposed to break.
Thanks Daniel, I went ahead a bought one but have not fired it yet. I ordered a Dednutz one peice scope mount. I have not decided which scope yet.
Chuck, Reds trading post in Idaho (do not know their website) says they have some mags coming in and Reds is pretty reasonable for price.
Anyone know what ammo not to use and what ammo is most accurate for this rifle.
Thanks
Now that I have had this rifle for three months or so, I have to say it is my favorite. I broke it in with buffalo bore ammo and right out of the box was shooting sub 1/2moa with a Leupold Mark 4 scope. Recoil is not worth mentioning, not for .308. It does weigh a lot with scope and full clip and bipod, but I am not carrying it any great distances or even shooting off-hand that much. Who ever said “I’m sorry but the last thing I need is a less-than-accurate BAR with a black stock and pistol grip all at an inflated price … to each his (her?) own, I guess.” is dead wrong on accuracy and price. 1350 is not a lot for this level of performance. dan
I just got the scope on my .243 Browning Shortrac last week and I am very happy with it. With just a bore sight and a little mounting care I was up and left less than an inch at 100 yards and grouping less than an inch out of the box with cheap factory ammo! I have no idea if the FN action is built heavier but I would hope that with a steel receiver vice aluminum and a heavy Barrel that the FN would better the shortrac performance. The shortrac is much lighter than the FN and when you get to the bigger bores the short/longtrac barrels don’t seem heavy enough for a semi. Looking at the parts breakdown the shortrac and FN AR are very very close. What I like about the .243 semi is the quick recovery for a second shot. For me that means coyotes down. Very light recoil and flat shooting. The FN AR has potential, but until I can readily get a magazine or other parts for it I’m not buying. Its bad enough trying to get parts for any browning right now.
My choice would be a 300 WSM version of the FN. Though I’m not giving up my pre 64 style bolt actions for long range targets yet.
I bought one last week and love it. I took it to the range and love it even more. My only complaint is lack of magazines and parts; you can’t find this stuff anywhere. I’m hoping in a couple months when things settle down it will get easier.
Here is a good review of the FNAR -
http://www.00buck.org/content/fnh-fnar-762-308-gun-owner-review
I just got my FNAR and took it to the range yesterday. I am a cross dominant shooter and from the first time I picked one up it just fit me. Once getting the scope sighted in it was very accurate and groups of 1/2 were the norm for me. This rifle is going to be one of my favorites for sure.
I bought my FNAR a few weeks ago and I’ve got to say it shoots like a dream. Accuracy is no problem, you point, it shoots. Recoil is surprisingly low for a .308 rifle, even an autoloader. I’ve put over 500 rounds through the gun with no mishaps, now I’m not saying that that’s impressive (in fact it’s only to be expected) but what IS impressive is that the other day after blowing 300 rounds of crappy serb plinker ammo through it, when I went to clean it, the first patch I ran through was a little dirty, but the second was as clean as when it entered. With my AR-15 if I shoot 50 rounds it looks like it was lost for a week in the La Brea tar pits. So much for ever having to worry about this thing malfunctioning
There are really only a few drawbacks worth mentioning. The first being that the factory hard case that comes with the rifle, while high quality for a factory case, is just barely too small once you add a Scope and bipod. Perhaps if you mounted a small scope on low pro rings you’d be able to squeeze it in there, but it would be tight. The other drawback I might mention is that the pistol grip is molded into the stock and not a separate entity. While it is a nice grip, I would have preferred to be able to swap it out later on down the road is I so chose.
That’s it, so buy one… immediately
I have just ordered my FNAR. I am anxious to receive it on Tuesday. I already have a BAR Safari in 338 with BOSS. I am very pleased with the Safari. Is there still a rebate available ? Thanks.
One more …….. with the chromed bore, how do I remove the copper / powder debris ? Thanks.
Got one and I like it. A Barska 3X9 mil dot scope works great on it. Would like suggestions on bipods.
LA Police Gear is offering closeout price on tactical rifle cases and it works well also.
Also, I think FNH should address the issue of non-available mags. They owe it to their customers.
Exgunn
I am considering the purchase of the FNAR and am undecided about which to choose, heavy or light barrel? Some pros and cons would be appreciated. Is the accuracy potential of the heavy barrel vs the light a consideration.
I think there are 3 differences:
1. Heavy barrel will take more rounds before it heats to the point were it may effect accuracy.
2. Recoil probably slightly less on the heavy.
3. The heavy is cooler to show your friends.
(I have a heavy and love it
)
I’ve got an FNAR as well.
It is my favorite rifle and the most fun I’ve ever had the pleasure to shoot.
Can’t say enough good about it — get one you will not be disappointed.
Have been out shooting the FNAR for a while now. Could not be more impressed and it is my favorite rifle at this point. However recommending it is something I wouldn’t do because of the magazine issue. Seeing magazines selling for 250.00 might be considered bad for business.
i was recently visiting a friend who had recently purchased an FNAR. WHAT A BEAUTIFUL RIFLE. so we went to the range for the maiden voyage with a leupold 4.5-14×50. the #^$$ thing would not zero. the *#^&&^ thing would only work as a bolt action!!!!!!! any suggestions? he put it in the safe with much dismay and that beautiful rifle will not see daylight unless there is some enlightenment on the performance or operator error. thanks!
I have been to the range only 3 times with my FNAR and am very happy with it. I personally have not had any problems at all. I have used new ammo only so far, no reloads. I found 2 extra mags for $47.00 ea locally but have not found any more yet. FNH says they are coming soon. I used british surplus new ammo and blasted 20 rounds then cleaned and oiled the barrel and blasted 20 more and again cleaned and oiled the barrel. I then switched to Buffalo bore match ammo. I have a Dednutz one peice scope mount which is what I switched to on all my rifles. It is very rugged and holds the scope on zero. On it I have a Nikon Monarch X 2.5×10x44 Tactical scope. 5 rounds and I was on zero at 200 yds and it has held it ever since with 1/2″ groups at 200yds using both Boffalo bore and Federal Gold Medal Match. At 100 yds it uses the same hole over and over. It eats up surplus very fast (but not as accurate) and this rifle is one fun gun. The trigger is the best I’ve seen on an over the counter rifle. Hopefully it continues to perform flawlessly, with 600 rounds throught it now I recommend this rifle highly.
If your rifle does not cycle in semi auto then it is either the ammo preasure is not high enough. (problem with some cheap reloads) OR was the rifle disasembled and reassembled incorrectly. Also do not use a heavy oil or grease on semi’s, they do not function with it. I wipe off all excess oil. For accuracy finding good ammo that your rifle likes cures most problems. Try differant brands of new ammo to set your scope. If the scope does not hold zero it is most likely your scope mount and torque’s (make sure you use manufactures torque specs for tightening and lastly a defective scope. In todays machining standards the rifle bore of any new rifle is the last place you will find fault.
you might want to have the gas system looked at ; you’re not getting enough gas pressure to cycle the bolt
I have been to the range 2x with mine and it shoots great. I had an issue with black hills 168 hp bt. Most of the rounds would hang up on a ridge in the chamber and actually compress the round. Has anyone else had this problem? No issue with remington umc fmj’s. Grouped as advertised. This rifle definantly likes the heavier stuff. 180’s grouped 1/2 moa @ 200yds.
FNH said they had 50,000 20rd magazines ordered, 25,000 are on backorder with groups of 2000 coming in soon. I think I’ll wait for them to get here instead of paying over $100.00 for them.
Has anyone shot this rifle at distances greater than 200 yards? If so, what results? How does this compare to say a Springfield M1A or even a BSA58 for long distance shooting? I would like a rifle that can reach out to 400+ yard range. For the price of about $1400, I want to get the best rifle for my money. I currently have a Browning A-bolt in 300WSM, but after 15-20 rounds my shoulder can no longer take the abuse and I just love how this rifle looks and feels.
Any input would be appreciated.
I have been shooting the FNAR at 200 yds from a bench using both reloads and factory ammo from 150 to 168 grain. I am also shooting an Armalite AR10T. Both shoot consistent 1moa groups, and could probably do better if the guy shooting the gun was a better shot. They both shoot better than my model 70 winchester bolt gun in.300WM.The Armalite 10T is built with very close tolerances and will not cycle with a lot of off-the- shelf ammo, especially the cheap stuff. The FNAR shoots anything flawlessly. The AR10 design is easier to dismantle and clean, but the FNAR doesn’t seem to care whether you clean it or not. In a survival or hunting scenario, where being dependable is as important as being accurate, I’d take the FNAR any day. I would also carry the FNAR on any deer or elk hunt, whereas I only want to carry the heavier armalite from the vehicle to the bench.
I finally got my hands on a light barrel FNAR and I really liked the balance.
Fits me right off the rack and I want one…for a little less coin.
My preference for these would be a non-Browning recoil/comb pad design. Something with adjustable length and drop like a spec ops would be better. I haven’t accepted the aluminum receiver for a tactical application. For rapid fire close tactical I would prefer the heavy barrel with a steel receiver like the safari grade. For intermittant use I would like the light barrel in a longer length. The light barrel is still heavy relative to the production shortrac series which is a good thing. If I had to carry one in Afghanistan I would want a 23″ light Barrel in .300wsm, a steel receiver, adjustable stock and a better fitting pistol grip. I do like the forearm rails and the trigger pull is awesome. The 7.62 FNAR is a bonafide 500 meter utility tool. l like it better than the clumsy bulky AR10, trust it to hit harder than the 5.56, but, If I have to pay double for a black gun that is just a modified hunting rifle then I’ll get a better hunting rifle. Maybe something in .338 Lapua.
Anybody know when magazines for the FNAR will be available? Their website shows 20 rd, 10 rd and 5 rd. I even emailed FNHSA and got no response.That was a month ago. If you can place an order anywhere online, they are backordered. Have my name on the contact me when available list at a couple places.
Well nevermind. I just went to my local gunshop and they had just gotten a bunch of 20 rd FNAR magazines in stock. Bought a couple of those.
has anyone seen a 5 round clip for sale for this gun? THeir websight shows they do exist.
I bought my FNAR light barrel in April (at that time I did not know they made a heavy also), I have only put about 80 rounds through it so far w/no problems. I placed a swarovski 3-10×42 scope (pricey but was informed it is built heavy enough for semi auto rifles. Zero’d with no problem. I contacted FHN and they gave me two websites to order their magazines from – barts and cmmg. Both do not have them in stock, but plan on carrying 5, 10, and 20 round magazines. I have hit a metal target at the range at 411 yards.
Scott, thanks.
I will try to have my local store order the 5 rd. I would just like to have that for hunting deer and coyote. I have the light barrel also, and I like it for the lighter wt(also bought it for my wife, so lighter is better). I put a leupold 3-9x varix3 on it, but may upgrade to a nightforce or leupold mark 4 tactical. My wife prefers to shoot the fnar over the armalite ar10. She thinks it kicks less and she likes the trigger pull better.
I think the trigger pull is great on this gun.
Hello Mark
I agree about the trigger pull it is very smooth and reminds me of my berreta storm. I almost purchased the ar10 in .308 instead and wondered about the recoil difference in the two systems. Instead now I believe I may buy an M1A socom ii.
About the 5 round mags. When I spoke with Barts in April and placed an order for the 10 rnd mags they informed me they have no idea when they will receive them. According to Barts they have only received 8 shipments of 10 rnd magazines for customers…I have a feeling it will be a long wait. So I am on the waiting list for the 5 rnd also…
Good luck, with the magazines. I hope you have better luck getting them.
Hello
-
Hopefully someone can help with this.
I wonder if the stocks are interchangable between the Browning BAR and FNAR? I live in the left coast of California and I hate the “bullet button” I have had to purchase because of the “evil feature” of the pistol grip (also the company I purchased it from rushed the job and it does not function well, and they don’t want to deal with it now). I have been told if I had purchased an M1A or BAR, I would not need the bullet button. Checking the Browning website and comparing the BAR LongTrac to my FNAR it shows some pictures of a disasembled stock and shim, they look identical to my stock and shims. I have contacted 3 authorized Browning dealers here in California about ordering a stock, but to my disapointment, they won’t let me order without bringing a rifle in for them to verify which stock I need. Any help would be greatly apreciated (besides telling me to move to the real USofA).
Thanks
Scott
Can you chamber and shoot a Winchester 308 cartridge in the FNAR 7.62×51 MM with out any harm to the gun or the person ? if there is a difference.
Dale,
No differance at all, It shoots 7.62 or 308 exactly the same. I’ve shot Federal 308. Buffalo Bore 308. British surplus 7.62. Wnichester 308 and Winchester 7.62 military and it shots the same, Accuracy is a differant matter.
Does anyone have experience using moly ( or similar ) coated bullets with the FNAR ? Does anyone know where to get in stock Black Hills ammo for the FNAR ? Thanks.
I reload hornady 168 grain AMAX moly coated bullets with excellent results in the fnar. I have seen black hills ammo in Cabela’s, but can’t get it locallly. In fact the difficulty in getting good ammo locally is why I went to reloading… that along with the cost savings.
Kevin, you are claiming to get sub 1/4 moa groups out of both your FNAR and BAR consistantly? I HIGHLY doubt that. That is VERY difficult to do with a custom built bolt gun, let alone a factory built gas gun.
Sadly, I had to sell the FNAR HEAVY 20 RD today. I sold it to a retailer. The gentleman behind the counter said that they received about 15 FNAR 20 RD magazines 2 days ago. They are getting $75 per. Five already sold and 3 more have been spoken for. Good news is the factory is shipping mags. Happy to say that I have not had to sell my BAR Safari in 338 yet.
hey guys, just bought an FNAR standard, took it to the range and have tried many different factory rounds including the Fed Gold Match 168 and have found the rifle less than impressive. I bought it because of all of the posts claining 1/2″ groups and was hoping to have a semi auto to shoot almost as well as my Steyr SSG-04. Is there a minumum break-in round count on these rifles or should I contact FN…thanks
a little more information, I have topped it with a Leupold VXIII 3.5X10 and am shooting off a led sled on the bench. The conditions were afternoon with no wind at 100yards. I had bought an AR-10 A4 carbine and was dissappointed in its grouping, the FN seemed to be the logical choice. I am very impressed with the MUCH lower recoil of the FN over the Armalite rifle. I picked up some Fed Gold Match 174gr the other day and am headed back to the range soon. thanks again…
Walton,
I have the same scope on my FNAR light barrel. Sitting at a bench, using the bipod, 168gr hornady amax moly, IMR 4895 40.1grain with no break in, I get 5 shot groups at one inch, no problem. It is shooting nearly as well as my armalite ar10T. My armalite AR10A4 rifle shoots 1.5-2.5in groups at 100 yds, whether I am using peep sights or vari -x 3 scope.I think the ar10a4 would do better with a 2 stage trigger, but it is not built to be the tack driver that the ar10t and FNAR are. Of the 3, the FNAR has the best trigger pull and is the lightest. My wife thinks the recoil is lighter with the FNAR, and I agree. My wife loves the FNAR and won’t even shoot the armalites.I just wish the FNAR magazines were easier to find. That is my only complaint about this gun.
Just received 2 more 20 rd mags from Arizonagunrunner for 49.95 ea.
Tom, I understand your doubt. I have been shooting for over 35 years and I am defintly no marksman or competitor and always had bolt rifles because everyone said the semi’s were not accurate and or dependable. The best bolt rifle I have is a 270 wm that shoots 1″ groups @ 200yds. Consistantly means when I am setting or checking the scope on my hyskore dangerous game rest and hydraulic remote trigger release. The 243 BAR off the Hyskore or sandbags shoots better than the 270wm bolt. The FNAR heavy off the Hyskore also beats it with Buffalo bore but british surplus has 2″ groups @ 200. I usually shoot standing or off a bench for fun not with the hyskore and yes I do not get the same results for I am not that steady. I must of just got lucky and received better than normal product. I guess I should keep them since you say gas guns are not accurate.
FNAR magazines are available in the 20-round size at Bart’s (or Burt’s) Sporting Goods. Phone 1-410-761-8686 or 1-410-768-8643. They were very helpful, but the price was $57 and change for one 20 rd. mag plus shipping. The five round size mag. (for hunting) is not going to be available until September. FN Herstal said they are shipping all they can make of the 20 round mags. now and waiting until later on toward hunting season to make and ship the five round mags. required in many states.
The FNAR I have gets good accuracy (1 and 2 inch groups) at 100 yds with many brands of cheap ammo but my 168 gr. Hornady bthp handloads get same hole results consistently at 100 yds. This is just a great rifle when fitted with a 4-16 power scope, green laser, and tactical flashlight which uses up all of the factory picatinny rails. Pricey, but worth the money with the heavy barrel.
Kevin, I never said gas guns are not accurate. In fact, I shoot a Noveske AR10, Armalite SASS, GAP built MK12 Mod 0, regularly with good results. I just doubted your sub 1/4 MOA claim.
Hello
Hopefully someone can help with this. Has anyone found replacement stocks for the FNAR?
Will the Browning BAR Forearm fit the FNAR?
Tom, that is a nice collection you have. Alot better than my DPMS, Smith & Wesson & Daniel Defense AR’s. Sorry you doubt me but I am happy with it. And I really like the FNAR. Keep up the shootin.
Everyone please, we all need to be NRA members. if your not please join. We need to be 80,000,000 strong against the anti gunners. Obama’s going to back door us one day.
I echo Kevin’s plea that we all need to be NRA members, whether you agree with all their policies or not. If there were no NRA this forum would not exist because these guns we own and love would not exist.
I would just add that if you are a hunter and especially if you hunt with a dog or hounds, join the United States Sportsman Alliance. Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is the hunter’s arch enemy and is using its $100 million dollar war chest to try to eliminate hunting and they are doing that now by attacking sporting dog ownership through puppy mill legislation in many states . At least visit USSA’s website and check them out. Sorry to go off topic.
Mark,
Just checked out United States Sportman’s Alliance, Looks good so I just joined. I am a life member of the NRA and Pheasant’s Forever, also belong to the Second Amendment Foundation and My State organization. I have a male GSP that lives to hunt. Like I said, Obamer is funeling money to these anti gunner and anti hunting groups and is in his plan to back door us on everything. And since this is a FNAR blog, I really like the FNAR to.
Kevin
very happy that you joined. I lost my 4 y/oGSP female last year to an accident, so I gave up bird hunting. Now just foxhunting on horseback with my pack.
Kevin, I have been back to the range several more times. I have now tried the 175gr Fed Gold Match and several more factory rounds, several were Hornady (they usually always shoot very well) and I am still unable to get better than 2″ with it. Seems like the barrel starts to warm up after the second shot and it opens well up into the 3-5″ range going into the 5th shot, thats with 15 minute cool downs between every shot. I guess I need to send it to FN. I was really hoping for a consistent shooter at 1″ or better.
Mark,
Sorry to hear about your GS, they are very devoted dogs.
Walton,
I have a heavy barrel and a freind has a heavy and we do not get that fluxuation when thay are very hot. Some of the guys with light barrels may be able to give you their experience but what you are experiencing does not sound right of course. FN gaurentees 1 MOA or better and when I talked to them at the show they told me it was much better than 1 and I told them mine was much much better. We just tried some HSN 168 and they did really well.
Recommend contacting FN of course, they should replace that barrel. I once had a new 338 hunting rifle that I had a new Leupold on it that did that and the scope was defective. I took a scope off my 300 and put it on the 338 and it held fine then. Cabela’s replaced it and its been fine for years now.
If anyone with light barrels have any info maybe they can respond.
Good Luck
I have a light barrel on my gun with a leupold vari x3 on it. I get 1 moa or better with pretty much any ammo I put through it. I have used federal 150 grain , Winchester 168 grain and reloaded ammo with a 168 grain Hornady amax moly. The federal 150 grain gave me the worst groups, but still much better than what Walton is getting.
I agree with trying a different scope before blaming the gun. I have read where a scope gone bad will frequently show up first with suttle widening of the groups.
I am going back to the range this weekend and am going to change the scope, I contacted FN and Tim spoke with me for a half hour and was very nice, they are sending me a shipping label and he said it would be taken care of. Yes, I have had a scope problem new out of the box recently, and it was a Meopta I put on my new AR10, the guy talked me into it at the store, I have always bought Leupold scopes since I was kneehigh to a grasshopper…Tim said they do all of their accuracy tests with the Fed GoldMatch 168gr. I will see what happens with the scope change, thank you guys for the help…
Called FN back, they sent me a shipping label and are going to check the rifle out there. I went back to the range this weekend and fired two test groups of 5 shots at 100. Changed the scope in between them to rule out the scope being the problem. Same results, and am sending them the targets and brass. The guy at FN sounded very eager to help and I am so far satisfied with thier customer service dept.
Walton,
Thanks for the update. I will be eager to hear what they find out. Keep us imformed
Walton,
Just to let you know I have a light barrel and am having the same problems as you. I can fire maybe 2 nice shots and then the group opens to 5″ or more. I am switching scopes and buying some 168gr match ammo to see if that make any difference. Hoping I don’t have to ship back. Look forward to hearing if sending it in fixed your problems.
Good Luck
I bought my FNAR in May, but took a while to pick rings/scope as this is my 1st hunting rifle (have AR & AR, but not scoped). Finally decided on Warne steel rings (reusable) & Nikon Prostaff 3-9 x40 – A cheap entry-level which I could upgrade from once I learn the basics & can improve my shot w/ better glass. I finally sighted in last week, using Remington 150Gr & Russian 168 Gr Match. I got within 3-4″ groups @ 100m in first ~20 rounds (remember I’m a rookie & my first sighting) & routinely within that 3-4″ between ammo types for next few mags (poor lighting @ range w/ 100m limit). To fire my last 20 Win 168Gr, I shot pretty rapid (full mag < 40 Sec) hitting w/i 5", but noticable 1" drop from the Win 150Gr I had just been firing… net-net, I think the 150 had better velocity & consistency than the heavier 168 OR didn't account for drop when sighting w/ mix ammo … which I didn't notice while firing slowly & thinking my aim was off – From the rookie.
The recoil was managable & only odd thing I found was the expended casing was expelled so hard from the chamber, it bent the brass nose to a D shape on all the rounds, making some scratches at the rear of the extraction port. I'm sure this is known to the folks here as normal, but as a rookie, thought it odd. One would certainly have to true the brass nose for reloading purposes.
I love the weapon & selected it for my 1st hunting rifle as it seemed to have rave reviews (outside of mag availability) compared to many other rifles/calibers out there… and was much better priced than many ($1300 @ CDNN Sports).
Question – I have ~260 rounds of Barnaul 7/62×51 ammo ($7.50/box – why I bought it!) which has the red primer where the brass/round meet – was initially told lacquer, but then corrected this is around the primer. I've heard from some that this primer is a bear to clean out when rifle cools & I should avoid ammo with it like the plague… others have said use a box of non-primered ammo to 'clean the bore' while hot after firing primered ammo… other military types have said use it & no big deal… any thoughts on putting this through 'my baby'?
Thanks in advance!
Tony
i will be purchasing the heavy barrel model does anybody know how easy the firearms are to come by, and what kind of accuracy can i obtain at 300 yds. with match ammo with a leupold mark 2 scope 4-12x 40mm?
I suggest calling CDNN Sports @ 800-588-9500. They had the heavy & light barrels in stock when I ordered mine. Prices were far better than those of my range or local providers – $250-400 less! I’ve ordered 4-5 weapons from them & only issue I’d note… they expect you to know what you want & ‘time is money’ to their Sales Reps.
Also as a tip to the group – this is the best price I’ve found for ‘range ammo’ – just ordered 500 rounds myself. Reviews call it a bit dirty, but 1/2 the price of normal range ammo (ie twice the fun!) & no typical russian Red Primer to coat the barrel…
$7.95/20 rounds – Brown Bear .308 145grn FMJ
http://www.aimsurplus.com/acatalog/Brown_Bear_.308_145grn_FMJ.html
I can post a review if anyone wants. LMK.
Enjoy!
Tony
Sent mine back to FN last Friday, just couldn’t get the rifle to shoot the type of groups it should be able to shoot.
Spent 5 hours at the range Thursday with a couple rifles, I used 175 Buffalo Bore and 175 Federal sierra match ammo. both performed flawlessly in my FNAR. the Federal shot about an inch higher than the Buffalo bore but both had the same groupings. see target groupings at the bottom of the attached article, http://gunblast.com/FN-AR.htm
this is exactly what my FNAR does using the above ammo and Federal 168 match. I also used a hyskore rest to get these results.
Will FN-FAL mags work?
Also, how does this rifle do with “standard”/available military style ball ammo? After all, primary potential use for this rifle will be for SHTF more than hunting and user will have to make do with what ammo is available and not much of that is going to be the really great stuff everyone is using to get those tight groups.
A little real world thought on how this rifle behaves with what ammo we may actually end up having to shoot would help. There is a huge variety of 7.62×51 military ball ammo out there and it is more likely we will end up shooting a lot more of that than the Buffalo Bore, Black Hills match grade stuff.
Big-Fed, the info I’ve gathered from other Forums is that the FN-FAL Mags will not work in this. Mag availability & price is the biggest challenge to this rifle, but just about the only one… and as a new gun, somewhat to be expected. Who needs more than 20 rapid & accurate shots at distance anyway
If you’re on the fence, here’s a pretty nice write-up that has more information in one-spot than I’ve seen prior: http://gunblast.com/FN-AR.htm
On Ammo – Per my post above, I’ve fired Remington 150Gr & Serbian 168 Gr Match (not Russian, specifically Prvi Partizan .308 Match 168grn HP) in the past and recently purchased 500 rds of Brown Bear Russian 145grn FMJ which I tested 120 rds this past weekend 72-200 yards – worked flawlessly. Surprisingly, the PP 168 & BB 145 were dead-on without any elevation adjustments required (Rem 150 shot 1″ higher). I shot 20 of another off-brand my first trip out, but can’t recall the brand. It seems to eat whatever you put through no probs!
I have some Barnaul that I haven’t shot due to the bullet/casing paint primer/lacquer – Don’t want it to dirty up my pretty rig… if SHTF, I’m confident it’d go through no probs & would have plenty of free time to clean it
Tony, Many thanks. Looks like a FNAR is in my future.
Dear FNAR lovers
FN tells me they are trying to keep up with demand for Mags
but police and militarys come first. Be patient keep checking
your local gun dealers for mags the gun is worth it
Hello
Hopefully someone can help with this. Has anyone found replacement stocks for the FNAR?
Will the Browning BAR Forearm fit the FNAR?
Has anyone changed ther FNAR into a Carbine?
Help!!! JC
I would like to know which bipods to use
I use a versa pod with quick release to remove it from the fixed rail mount which is extra, It is a little heavier but very sturdy.
This is an excellent forum and I’ve learned a lot more about the FNAR from readers’ comments and experiences as well as from other sites. My questions pretty much echo JC’s — I’d like to find out if conversion kits to upgrade the FNAR to a military-type configuration are, or will possibly soon be, available, and from whom.
I sail a lot and have found that a reliable assault-style rifle is ideal for vessel defence against piracy and other acts of hostility, but I would also like to retain the best possible long-range accuracy in the same weapon, hence my interest in the FNAR.
Any help with this would be much appreciated.
With Best Regards To All,
Earl
Earl,
In its present configuration, you can put on any accessory that you might want to attach to an AR15 or AR10. Rather than try to modify it to look like an AR 10 ( which is what I assume you mean by military style) then I would suggest you just spend the few extra hundred dollars and get an armalite AR10t. At least as accurate as the fnar, but the fnar will shoot pretty much any ammo flawlessly, where as due to tighter tolerances, the ar10t needs the best ammo you can get to recycle without jamming
Thanks for the great advice, Mark. I certainly appreciate your input on this matter. Since reliability and general versatility ( including the ability to readily digest a wide range of available ammunition in the appropriate caliber ) in a balanced assault rifle type package are what I’m looking for, I think the FNAR would suit me better.
Perhaps I should have elaborated a little more about what I was looking for in a conversion kit and what I meant by “military-style” — specifically, a folding stock, addition of a flash suppressor for night engagements and the ability to readily accept laser sights. These features go a long way towards making any rifle more suitable for shipboard storage and use as a defensive weapon.
From what I’ve seen and read so far, the FNAR will probably have no problem accepting the latter, so if you or anyone else has an answer to the first two requirements, please let me know.
Earl
Looking at the gist of comments above, I’d like to pitch-in and offer this on my relatively short experience with my FNAR heavy barrel, purchased Spring, 2009: Have fired about 400 rounds through it so far.
For a good published review with photos, check out Quinn’s Gunblast website.
I regard this rifle as multipurpose for hunting, fighting (self-defense) and medium-range target shooting. I would love to get into a herd of hogs with it. Hope to do just that this fall. I’ll also be taking a few deer with it. Don’t expect to need more than a single shot for that.
I am an AR-15 fan. And I like the feel and fit of this rifle much better than most A-10’s I’ve handled (only at gunshows). And, I too purchased it to fit a hole in my gunsafe. I expect it to perform very well if the zombies come.
The stock combs, recoil pads and shims offer a great deal of versatile customization for comfort and fit.
Magazines: Hard to come by. Got my one extra from armaliterifles.com; still waiting on my 10-round mags, ordered 5 months ago.
To the best of my knowledge, this rifle accepts only the FNAR mag’s.
Rifle shoots great! You should expect sub-MOA groups. To 700 yards is the farthest I’ve gone at my deer lease. Have shot many 3-rd groups w/holes touching at 100 yards.
I use a Leupold 6.5×20 LRT w/ tactical milling reticle; on a Nightforce unimount (base and rings are integral – easy on and off with two nuts/bolts). You may not need that much scope, but my old eyes do, and I like to shoot paper at long distances. That scope costs as much as the rifle! But I also use it on another long-range rifle.
You could just as easlily mount a holographic scope with no magnification for relatively short-range work, or a lesser magnified scope. Whatever your budget or need happens to be. This rifle is very versatile in that respect.
With normal circumstances, I would be fairly comfortable and confident of an ethical shot to harvest deer or other big game out to 500 yards with the equipment I have. But no further for me with ANY rifle, regardless of its accuracy.
I have used two different Harris bipods with swivels and locks, plus the LaRue QD adapter on each.
Have used Buffalo Bore match ammo and found it to be very consistent. Higher velocity and heavy bullet = fair amount of recoil. In my case, the hvy bbl helps because I don’t particularly like much recoil, and I can get back on the target quicker.
Had trouble at first with ammo-feed malfunctions on round-nosed 150-gr Federal’s I was using for breaking-in and general range ammo. Was pretty sure it was the magazine. Took it to dealer, gunsmith adjusted the mag lip, and problem was solved in a few minutes.
Like Tony says above, the rifle ejects the the spent cartridge with vigor, and forms an indentention on the nose of the brass. I had not previously experienced that with other semi-auto’s either.
A few things I don’t like about the rifle:
Comes with only one magazine, and extra mag’s are too darned hard to get.
Wish the handgrip was removable and replacable. Don’t like the hard plastic. I’m looking for a soft-rubber wrap for it.
For me, the rifle was difficult to dissassemble and reassemble for detailed cleaning of the piston system. I have only done it once, and the learning curve was pretty steep and slow for me. However, FN says that doesn’t have to be done very often. Probably depends on your shooting habits and ammo quality.
All in all, I’m very pleased with the rifle. Am looking forward to using it this hunting season.
Terry, great review, thank you
has anyone seen the model that is being sold under the winchester name same rifle but full camo heavy bbl and less the two rails on the side of forearm.comes with ten round mag.i would think it would shoot as well as
the fnar…if u want to see it they have them on the gungenie website.
http://www.galleryofguns.com/genie/default.aspx?item=531051220
kind of interesting that these are showing up there and at gunbroker , yet I can’t find it even mentioned on the Winchester website. No info on it about any guarantee of accuracy or other details
big dave,
That’s sweet but I would think Winchester would market it as a Deer rifle instead. Don’t really need camo or .308 for varmits, unless there the size of Obama. least the varmits we have here you could use flame orange ballbats and they wouldn’t care. Since FN, Browning and Winchester are under one roof I’ll bet there is no differance in accuracy or quality. I might need another safe after all.
Another good article
http://www.rifleshootermag.com/featured_rifles/RS_aforaccurate_200902/index.html
This is “a day-after the range” followup to my post of 28 Sep 2009.
As said, I have had and continue to have excellent results with the 175 gr Buffalo Bore match ammo.
I also have had surprisingly good results with the cheap Federal blue-box 150 gr soft points which I used while sighting-in and breaking-in the rifle.
Yesterday, I tried Winchester’s Supreme Ballistic Silver Tips in 168 gr and 150 gr. These are boat-tail nosler-point bullets.
They sprayed all over the place at 100 and 200 yards. Very erratic, not even real groups – way over 1 moa of spread from point of aim. The barrel was clean.
This was an unpleasant surprise for me, since I have gotten superior results over the years with the same type of ammo in Win. 270, both 130 gr and 140 gr. Yes, it’s a completely different rifle and is a single-shot bolt action.
However, at the end of the day, I tried another type in the FNAR: Federal’s Premium 165 gr Sierra Game King provided acceptable results. Groups of 5 at 100 and 200 yards were all within 1 MOA of the POA, usually 3 of the 5 within 1/2 MOA. And that was when I was tired. Would expect better results if rested.
For now, it looks as if that will be my hunting ammo for this season. Looking forward to the day I have time to get into reloading!
Terry, thanks for the range report.
it is a fn fnar .308 heavy
awsom rifle
i have shot 500 rnds
100 m 200 m 400 m
win match 168 g
Buffalo bore awsom / best
lupia reloads great
and black hills awsom / best
and 762×51 nato good
and match reloads verry good
all fed and shot well
good moa from all jeff
Just wondering. Has the price dropped on these bad boys at all? I’m going to be turning 18 soon and i was wondering if my father could afford to buy me one of these. And is it a significant upgrade to a .270 WBY or a custom bolt action 30-06? Im going to go to Texas Tech out in Lubbock, Texas, and i have to have SOMETHING to shoot prairie dogs with
. also, im a card carrying life member of the NRA.
To one question, is it a significant upgrade to a custom bolt-action .30-06 ? Well, it’s a whole different animal.
First – it’s a semi-auto rifle with 10 and 20 round magazines available. But it’s very accurate with certain ammunition. However, the trigger is only average when compared to match triggers found in a custom rifle used for precision shooting.
Second – IMO, the FNAR is better suited for as a fighting rifle, for defense against crowds of charging zombies, or getting into a herd of feral hogs, or taking down medium-to-large game, than for shooting poor little pd’s.
Third – the ammo selection for a .308 is much more limited than for what may be the most versatile rifle in history with regard to the ammo selection available for it: the .30-06. Ammo is available for it to shoot anything from little varmints in West Texas to heavy game in Africa.
Fourth – the .308 is not typically reknown as a flat-shooting round. There are many rifles in a variety of calibers available to you that shoot cheaper and smaller bullets with greater speed and with better, flatter ballistics – all of which may be more suitable for varmints. Just a few are the .17, .22-250, .223, .25-06 and many more. You’ll need to research what your needs are.
Enjoy Tech and keep carrying that card! Hope this helps.
Go to the winchester website and check out their new SXAR rifle.
Looks just like the FNAR with camo
Hunting ammo performance report – Reference my 13 Oct 2009 Range Report.
Another good performer found, tested at the range yesterday:
Win Match 180 gr. Nosler Accubond by Black Hills.
Performed about the same as the Federal 165 gr Sierra Game King.
I went to the range to shoot mine yesterday and it’s shooting 2-2.5 inch groups at 100 yards for me using Winchester 150 grain SPs. I know I could probably improve this but it’s good enough for deer season opening gun day over in Alabama this weekend.