Is the FN FAL Still in Production?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Current State of FAL Production
3. Why the FAL Still Matters for the Modern Tactician
4. Metric vs. Inch Pattern: What You Need to Know
5. Integrating the FAL into a Preparedness Strategy
6. Evaluating a Used or Surplus FAL
7. Modern Upgrades for the FAL Platform
8. Training with a Battle Rifle
9. Legal Considerations for the FN FAL
10. Conclusion
11. FAQ

Introduction

The FN FAL, or Fusil Automatique Léger (Light Automatic Rifle), earned its reputation as the "Right Arm of the Free World" during the Cold War. For decades, it was the standard-issue service rifle for over 90 nations, proving its worth from the deserts of the Middle East to the jungles of South America. Many veterans and tactical enthusiasts still consider it the gold standard for a 7.62x51mm NATO battle rifle. At Crate Club, we often see a resurgence of interest in classic, proven platforms that offer superior terminal ballistics over the standard 5.56mm. This article explores whether the FN FAL is still in production, who is currently manufacturing it, and why this platform remains a viable choice for serious preppers and tacticians today. If you’re building a serious setup, it’s a good time to choose your Crate Club tier and start with vetted gear.

Quick Answer: While FN Herstal in Belgium has ceased mass military production of the original FAL, the rifle is still very much in production. In the United States, DSArms (DS Arms) manufactures new-production FAL-pattern rifles (the SA58) using modern materials and machining.

The Current State of FAL Production

To understand if the FAL is still being made, you have to distinguish between the original Belgian manufacturer and the current specialized market. FN Herstal, the original designer, has largely shifted its focus to modern platforms like the SCAR-H (Mk 17) and the entry-level 5.56mm systems. However, the design of the FAL was licensed and reproduced globally for decades, creating a massive secondary market and specialized manufacturers who keep the platform alive. That kind of platform comparison pairs well with assault rifle vs battle rifle differences.

DS Arms and the American SA58

In the United States, the primary torchbearer for the FAL is DS Arms (DSA). They acquired much of the original tooling and blueprints from international manufacturers like Steyr. Unlike companies that simply assemble rifles from old surplus parts kits, DSA produces brand-new receivers, barrels, and internal components. If you want a broader look at defensive rifles, what is the best survival rifle is a helpful companion read.

Their flagship line, the SA58, is a modernized FN FAL. While it retains the iconic short-stroke gas piston system and tilting bolt, it incorporates modern features like Picatinny rails, shortened barrel lengths, and improved furniture. If you are looking for a brand-new FAL that has zero miles on the odometer, DSA is currently the industry standard.

International Production and Licensing

While FN Herstal is out of the FAL game, other nations maintained production lines much longer. For example, IMBEL (Industria de Material Bélico do Brasil) in Brazil continued to produce FAL variants for the Brazilian military and export markets well into the 21st century. While these are harder to find as new civilian imports in the US due to various trade and firearm regulations, they represent the lasting manufacturing legacy of the rifle. For readers who like the bigger preparedness picture, what is tactical gear used for explains how rifles fit into a broader gear system.

The Parts Kit Market

A significant portion of the "new" FALs seen in the US today are actually kit builds. These are constructed using surplus parts kits from various countries—such as Austria (StG 58), South Africa (R1), or the UK (L1A1)—mated to a new US-made receiver. While the receiver is the legally serialized "firearm," the rest of the gun may have seen service decades ago. These rifles are functional but differ from the "new-production" status of a DSA SA58. For a practical gear-planning perspective, eight essentials for a tactical loadout is a solid next stop.

Why the FAL Still Matters for the Modern Tactician

In an era dominated by the AR-15 and the AR-10, why would an operator or a prepper seek out a design from the 1950s? The answer lies in the FAL’s unique combination of ergonomics, reliability, and the heavy-hitting 7.62x51mm NATO round. If you’re sorting out rifle roles, what is a tactical rifle gives useful context.

The Power of 7.62x51mm NATO

The 7.62x51mm NATO (closely related to the .308 Winchester) provides significantly more kinetic energy and barrier penetration than the 5.56x45mm NATO. In a survival or defensive scenario where you may need to engage targets at longer ranges or through light cover, the FAL excels. It is a "battle rifle," not an "assault rifle," meaning it is built to provide reach and stopping power.

The Adjustable Gas Regulator

One of the most praised features of the FAL is its adjustable gas regulator. Located just behind the front sight post, this allows the user to bleed off excess gas or increase pressure to the piston. This means you can tune the rifle to run reliably even when it is extremely dirty or when you are using underpowered surplus ammunition. This level of user-serviceability in the field is a major advantage for long-term preparedness. For readers focusing on rifle setup and maintenance, how to fix a rifle scope is a useful adjacent guide.

Field Note: When adjusting your FAL gas regulator, always start with the vent fully open. Close it click-by-click until the rifle reliably cycles and locks back on an empty magazine. This minimizes wear on the internal components and reduces felt recoil.

Metric vs. Inch Pattern: What You Need to Know

If you are diving into the world of FALs, you will immediately encounter the "Metric vs. Inch" debate. This refers to the two primary manufacturing standards used during the rifle's peak production years. If you want to compare that sort of practical decision-making to other rifle categories, what is a survival rifle is a useful reference.

• Metric Pattern: These were produced by FN Herstal and most of the world (Germany, Brazil, South Africa, etc.). Metric rifles and magazines are the most common in the US market today.
• Inch Pattern (Commonwealth): These were produced by Commonwealth nations like the UK, Australia, and Canada (often designated as the L1A1 or C1). Inch pattern rifles have some different dimensions in the receiver and use magazines with a larger reinforced lug.

Key Compatibility Notes:

1. Most Inch pattern receivers can accept Metric magazines, but the fit may be loose.
2. Metric receivers generally cannot accept Inch magazines without modification to the magazine or the receiver.
3. Internal parts like the trigger group, bolt carrier, and furniture are often specific to the pattern.

For a modern user, the Metric pattern is generally recommended because parts and magazines are more readily available.

Integrating the FAL into a Preparedness Strategy

Adding a battle rifle like the FAL to your inventory requires more than just the rifle. Because the weapon and its ammunition are significantly heavier than an AR-15, your load-bearing equipment and training must adapt. If you’re building out the rest of your setup, browse the Gear Shop for individual essentials.

A standard 20-round steel FAL magazine weighs considerably more than a 30-round polymer AR-15 magazine. We recommend looking into the Captain tier or Major tier at Crate Club to find high-quality load-bearing gear and EDC essentials that can handle the increased weight and bulk of a .308 loadout.

Maintenance and Tooling

The FAL is famously robust, but it does require specific knowledge for deep maintenance. Unlike the AR-15, which is mostly held together by pins, the FAL uses a threaded barrel that is timed to the receiver and a locking shoulder to set headspace. While the average user won't need to change a barrel in the field, having a dedicated "buttstock tool" is essential for removing the recoil spring housed in the stock for cleaning. For more general gear planning, what tactical gear do I need for preparedness and survival is a strong next read.

Optic Mounting Solutions

The original FAL was designed for iron sights. The top cover is a simple piece of sheet metal that is not inherently stable for mounting heavy modern optics. If you plan to run a Red Dot or a Low Power Variable Optic (LPVO), you must invest in a high-quality, bolt-on railed top cover. Companies like DSA make a version that replaces the standard top cover and provides a solid 1913 Picatinny rail for your glass. If optics are part of your setup, how to mount a holographic sight is worth a look.

Key Takeaway: The FN FAL remains relevant due to its adjustable gas system and the superior ballistics of the 7.62x51mm round. For those seeking new production, the US-made SA58 is the primary modern option.

Evaluating a Used or Surplus FAL

Because new-production rifles can be expensive, many enthusiasts look to the secondary market. If you are inspecting a used FAL, there are several critical areas to check to ensure it is "operator ready."

1. The Receiver Manufacturer: Look for names like DS Arms, Imbel, or Coonan. Be cautious of "garage builds" on lower-quality receivers that may have feeding or headspacing issues.
2. Bore Condition: Many surplus rifles saw use with corrosive ammunition. Check the rifling for pitting or "frosting," especially near the muzzle.
3. The Gas Block: Ensure the gas regulator turns freely and isn't rusted in place. A frozen regulator defeats one of the rifle's primary advantages.
4. Headspace: If the rifle was assembled from a parts kit, verify that the headspace was set correctly using Go/No-Go gauges. An improperly headspaced .308 rifle is dangerous.

Recommended Loadout Checklist

If you choose to run an FAL as your primary long gun, your support gear should include:

• At least 7–10 reliable Metric 20-round magazines.
• A heavy-duty sling (the FAL is a 9–11 lb rifle).
• A railed top cover if you intend to use optics.
• A field cleaning kit with a dedicated buttstock tool.
• A high-quality IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) like those found in our Captain tier crates.

Bottom line: The FN FAL is a heavy-duty tool for those who prioritize power and reliability over lightweight portability.

Modern Upgrades for the FAL Platform

While purists love the classic look of the wood or plastic furniture, modern upgrades can make the FAL a much more effective tool in a contemporary tactical environment.

Shortened Barrels

The original 21-inch barrel was designed for open-field combat. For modern use, many prefer an 18-inch or even a 16-inch barrel. This makes the rifle much more maneuverable in vehicles or tight spaces without sacrificing too much of the 7.62x51mm's velocity. If you’re comparing platform characteristics, assault rifle vs battle rifle differences gives useful context.

M-LOK Handguards

Replacing the traditional handguards with an M-LOK compatible aluminum handguard allows for the mounting of weapon lights, vertical grips, and IR illuminators. This is essential for anyone using the rifle for home defense or night operations. For a deeper dive into optic setup, how to use a holographic sight is a practical follow-up.

Improved Triggers

Standard FAL triggers are often described as "military grade"—meaning they are heavy and somewhat gritty. Aftermarket trigger work can significantly improve the "break" and "reset," making it easier to achieve the accuracy the rifle is capable of at 300 yards and beyond.

Training with a Battle Rifle

The recoil of a .308 is substantially more than a 5.56. If you are moving from a lighter platform to the FAL, you must spend time on the range mastering "recoil management." This involves a more aggressive stance and a firm pull into the pocket of the shoulder. If you’re building competence around your rifle setup, the tactical loadout guide is a sensible cross-check.

Furthermore, the manual of arms is different. The FAL uses a "rock and lock" magazine insertion method, similar to an AK-47, and the charging handle is located on the left side of the receiver. Practice these manipulations until they are second nature. The best gear in the world is useless if you fumble the reload when it matters most.

Legal Considerations for the FN FAL

As with any tactical firearm, you must be aware of federal and state laws. In the United States, the FAL is subject to "922(r)" compliance if it is assembled from imported parts. This means it must contain a certain number of US-made components (such as the trigger, furniture, or receiver) to be legal.

Additionally, certain states have restrictions on "assault weapons" that may ban the FAL by name or by specific features like the pistol grip or flash hider. Always verify your local regulations before purchasing or building an FAL. If you’re deciding whether a battle rifle fits your needs, the Major tier is built for experienced users who want premium gear.

Conclusion

The FN FAL is far from a museum piece. While FN Herstal may have moved on to newer designs, the rifle’s presence in the tactical world remains strong thanks to companies like DS Arms and a robust community of builders. Whether you are looking for a reliable "SHTF" (Survival Hits The Fan) rifle or a powerful addition to your collection, the FAL offers a level of durability and punch that few modern rifles can match.

By understanding the differences between Metric and Inch patterns and focusing on high-quality new production or vetted surplus, you can field a rifle that truly lives up to the "Right Arm of the Free World" moniker. At Crate Club, we believe in gear that has been proven in the field. The FAL isn't just a rifle; it's a piece of history that still performs at an elite level.

Ready to build your ultimate tactical loadout? Start your subscription to get Spec Ops-vetted gear delivered straight to your door, and explore the General tier if you want the highest level of field-tested gear.

FAQ

Is the FN FAL still used by any militaries today?

Yes, the FAL remains in service with several militaries around the world, primarily in South America, Africa, and parts of Asia. While many frontline units have upgraded to modern 5.56mm or newer 7.62mm platforms, the FAL is still widely used by reserve forces, police units, and in countries where the ruggedness of the design is prioritized over modern features.

Can I buy a brand-new FN FAL in the United States?

You can buy a brand-new FAL-pattern rifle manufactured by DS Arms, known as the SA58. While it is not made by FN Herstal in Belgium, it is a new-production rifle made to modern specifications in the US. These rifles are widely considered the best option for someone wanting a factory-new FAL with a warranty and modern rail options. If you’re still assembling the rest of your kit, our Gear Shop is the place to browse individual items.

What is the effective range of an FN FAL?

An experienced shooter with a well-maintained FN FAL and quality ammunition can effectively engage targets out to 600 yards. While the rifle is capable of hitting targets at further distances, its practical accuracy is generally around 2 to 4 MOA (Minute of Angle), making it a mid-range powerhouse rather than a dedicated long-range sniper rifle.

Why is the FAL called the "Right Arm of the Free World"?

It earned this nickname during the Cold War because it was adopted by nearly every NATO country and many other Western-aligned nations, with the notable exception of the United States. It stood as the direct mechanical rival to the Soviet AK-47, representing the primary infantry weapon for the forces of the "Free World" for several decades.