Born in the 1970s, the Belgian FN FNC (Fabrique Nationale Carabine) was adopted by the Belgian Armed Forces in 1989 to replace the FN FAL. It is now being phased out and replaced by FN SCARs. The FNC was also adopted by the Swedish Armed Forces, and it is still in use. Sweden calls their version the Ak5, and you can find more information about it here. The FNC uses a gas-operated long-stroke piston system with a rotating bolt locking mechanism, and I’ve spent quite a lot of time cleaning them. The lower receiver is made from aluminum alloy while the upper uses stamped steel.

These pictures are taken by French soldiers from the 35e régiment d’infanterie, from one of their joint exercises with Belgian soldiers. Below you can see another photo with the Barrett M82 .50 BMG and a spotter in the snow.

– Exercise in Belgium – It has been 3 years since the elite trainers of the support company stood with the Ardennes Rangers to work together and share their knowledge.

It is said that the FNC was a cheaper alternative than the M16 at the time. The only reference I have is that the internal cost for an Ak5 was about 4 000 SEK in the mid-1980s. This would represent about 950 USD today, but bear in mind that figure may not be completely correct.

Love or hate for the FN FNC? Let us know your experience below.