Is the FN FAL Still in Production?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Shift from Belgium: FN Herstal’s Move Forward
3. DS Arms: The Modern Standard-Bearer
4. International Production: IMBEL and Beyond
5. Anatomy of the FAL: Why It Still Matters
6. Comparing Modern Production FALs to Modern Platforms
7. The Role of the FAL in a Survival Kit
8. Metric vs. Inch Pattern: What You Need to Know
9. Modernizing the FAL for the 21st Century
10. Training and Proficiency
11. Selecting a FAL for Your Loadout
12. Conclusion
13. FAQ

Introduction

The FN FAL earned its nickname as "The Right Arm of the Free World" for a reason. For decades, this 7.62x51mm NATO battle rifle was the primary service weapon for over 90 countries. It stood as the direct competitor to the Soviet AK-47, offering more range, more power, and a level of modularity that was ahead of its time. If you are a student of tactical history or a prepper looking for a heavy-hitting rifle, you have likely wondered if this legend is still being manufactured. At Crate Club, we value gear that has been proven in the most hostile environments on earth, and if you want to choose your Crate Club tier, the FAL certainly fits that description. While the original Belgian production lines have largely gone quiet, the rifle is far from extinct. This article covers the current production status of the FAL, who is making it now, and why it remains a top-tier choice for serious tacticians.

Quick Answer: While FN Herstal in Belgium no longer mass-produces the FAL for military contracts, the rifle is still in production today. DS Arms (DSA) in the United States is the primary manufacturer of new FAL-pattern rifles, while IMBEL in Brazil continues to produce components and variants.

The Shift from Belgium: FN Herstal’s Move Forward

To understand the current state of FAL production, you have to look at the original manufacturer. FN Herstal, the Belgian powerhouse, began tapering off FAL production in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The world of tactical firearms was shifting toward lighter 5.56x45mm NATO rounds and more modern materials like polymers and optics-ready rails, which is why it helps to understand what a gas-operated rifle is.

FN Herstal eventually moved its focus to the SCAR-H (Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle - Heavy). The SCAR-H serves as the spiritual successor to the FAL, chambered in the same 7.62x51mm NATO round but featuring modern ergonomics and weight reduction. Because FN Herstal shifted its military contract focus, new, Belgian-made FALs are no longer coming off the line. For a collector, finding an original "Pre-89" Belgian FAL is the gold standard, but for an operator who wants a rifle to actually use, new production must be found elsewhere.

DS Arms: The Modern Standard-Bearer

If you are looking for a brand-new FAL today, your search will almost certainly lead you to DS Arms (DSA). Based in the United States, DSA is currently the world leader in FAL production. They didn't just buy a license; they bought the actual blueprints and the original tooling from several international factories that used to produce the rifle under license.

The SA58 Series

DSA produces the SA58, which is their modern take on the FAL. They offer it in various configurations that the original designers at FN could only dream of. This includes shorter barrel lengths, such as the 11-inch "OSW" (Operational Specialist Weapon), and modernized versions with M-LOK handguards and Picatinny rails for optics.

The M-LOK system (Modular Lock) allows for the attachment of lights, lasers, and grips, while the Picatinny rail is the standard mounting system for modern red dots and magnified optics. These additions bring a 1950s design into the 21st century. DSA manufactures their receivers from 4140 steel, which is heat-treated to stand up to the high pressures of the 7.62 NATO round.

Parts and Availability

Because DSA holds the tooling and produces the majority of the components in-house, they are the primary source for replacement parts. If you are building a rifle from a surplus parts kit, you will likely end up using a DSA receiver or fire control group, and you can also browse the Gear Shop for supporting kit that keeps a rifle setup organized.

Field Note: If you purchase a modern DSA SA58, check the gas regulator setting immediately. The FAL is famous for its adjustable gas system. If the rifle isn't cycling, you likely need to close the regulator to allow more gas to hit the piston. If it's kicking like a mule and mangling brass, open the regulator to bleed off excess pressure.

International Production: IMBEL and Beyond

Outside of the United States, the production status of the FAL becomes a bit more complex. Several countries produced the FAL under license for decades, including Argentina (FMAP), Australia (Lithgow), and Brazil (IMBEL).

IMBEL (Brazil)

The Indústria de Material Bélico do Brasil (IMBEL) is one of the few remaining large-scale manufacturers that still deals with the FAL pattern. While they have officially transitioned the Brazilian military to the IA2—a rifle that looks like a FAL but uses a rotating bolt similar to an AR-15—they still produce FAL parts. For the caliber side of that conversation, 7.62x51 and .308 compatibility matters when you are comparing rifles and ammo. For years, IMBEL receivers were imported into the US and are considered some of the best in the world. They are forged, rather than cast, making them incredibly durable.

The Surplus Market and "Frankenfals"

While not "production" in the traditional sense, the market is currently flooded with surplus parts kits. These kits come from dismantled rifles used by various world militaries. To make these legal in the US, a builder must use a certain number of US-made parts and a new receiver. This has created a secondary "production" industry where small shops and hobbyists assemble rifles using a mix of original military steel and modern US components, much like building a tactical loadout piece by piece.

Anatomy of the FAL: Why It Still Matters

The fact that the FAL is still in production after 70 years is a testament to its design. It is a battle rifle, which is a term used to describe a military service rifle chambered in a full-power cartridge like 7.62x51mm NATO (as opposed to an "assault rifle" which uses intermediate cartridges like 5.56). For a deeper look at the platform itself, Understanding How FN FAL Works breaks down the action in detail.

The Short-Stroke Gas Piston

The FAL uses a short-stroke gas piston system. When a round is fired, the gas travels up through a port in the barrel and strikes a piston. This piston moves back just a short distance—about an inch—to tap the bolt carrier, sending it rearward to cycle the action. This system is generally cleaner than the direct impingement system found in an AR-15 because the dirty gases are vented out the front of the rifle rather than into the receiver.

The Adjustable Gas Regulator

This is perhaps the FAL's greatest feature. Located just behind the front sight, the regulator allows the user to tune the rifle to specific ammunition or environmental conditions. In a survival or SHTF (Seve-Hits-The-Fan) scenario, you might have to use old, underpowered surplus ammo or high-pressure modern rounds. The FAL can be adjusted to cycle reliably with both.

The Tilting Breech Block

Unlike the rotating bolt of the AK-47 or AR-15, the FAL bolt "tilts" down into a locking shoulder in the receiver. This is a very robust locking mechanism that can handle the significant recoil and pressure of the .308 Winchester round.

Key Takeaway: The FAL remains a viable tactical tool because its adjustable gas system and short-stroke piston allow it to function in extreme conditions with varying types of ammunition.

Comparing Modern Production FALs to Modern Platforms

When deciding if a new production FAL is right for your loadout, you have to compare it to modern alternatives like the AR-10 or the SCAR-H. We see many operators choosing the FAL for its "old world" durability and specific ballistics, but the AR-10 is still a common benchmark, and the AR-10's hunting potential is worth comparing against any full-power rifle.

The FAL is heavier than most modern rifles. However, that weight helps manage the recoil of the 7.62 NATO round. In a long-range engagement or a situation requiring barrier penetration—such as shooting through car doors or thick brush—the FAL's weight and caliber are major advantages.

The Role of the FAL in a Survival Kit

For a serious prepper, the FAL occupies a unique niche. It is a rifle that can bridge the gap between a standard infantry rifle and a DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle). A DMR is a weapon used by a squad-level marksman to provide accurate fire at ranges beyond the reach of standard 5.56 rifles, typically out to 600 or 800 yards. If you are comparing it to a broader preparedness setup, it helps to understand what a survival rifle is.

If you are building a kit through our Major tier or General tier at Crate Club, you are likely looking for high-value, professional-grade equipment. A modern FAL fits into this philosophy perfectly. It isn't a "sissy" rifle. It requires strength to carry and skill to master.

Ballistic Performance

The 7.62x51mm round carries significantly more kinetic energy than the 5.56mm. At 300 yards, the 5.56 starts to lose its ability to fragment, whereas the 7.62 is still hitting with devastating force. For rural defense or patrolling large areas of land, the "Right Arm of the Free World" provides a level of stand-off distance that smaller calibers cannot match, especially when you compare .308 Winchester performance to lighter intermediate cartridges.

Durability and Maintenance

The FAL is notoriously easy to field-strip. It hinges open like a shotgun, allowing the bolt and carrier to slide right out the back. This makes cleaning the bore and the action simple even in field conditions. Because it is made mostly of steel, it is also incredibly rugged. You can drop it, drag it, and run it hard without worrying about snapping an aluminum receiver or a polymer stock.

Metric vs. Inch Pattern: What You Need to Know

Because the FAL was produced globally, two distinct patterns emerged: Metric and Inch (also known as Commonwealth/L1A1). If you are looking at modern production or surplus parts, you must know the difference.

1. Metric Pattern: This is the most common pattern. It was used by most countries, including Belgium, Brazil, and Argentina. Most modern DSA rifles are Metric pattern.
2. Inch Pattern: This was used by the UK, Australia, and Canada. The parts are measured in inches, and while many are similar to Metric parts, they are often not interchangeable.

The biggest practical difference for a modern user is the magazine. Metric magazines are cheaper and more plentiful. Inch magazines have a larger lug on the front and will usually not fit in a Metric receiver. When you are buying gear like magazine pouches or chest rigs, see a Captain supply drop with optics maintenance gear so you can get a feel for the kind of support items Crate Club curates.

Bottom line: Stick to the Metric pattern for modern builds to ensure the widest availability of magazines and replacement parts.

Modernizing the FAL for the 21st Century

If you decide to pick up a new production FAL, there are a few upgrades that are essential for it to be a viable defensive tool today. At Crate Club, we often see these types of tactical refinements in the gear we curate, including a Major supply drop with an EDC flashlight.

• Optics Rail: The original FAL "dust cover" is just a thin piece of sheet metal. To mount an optic, you need a heavy-duty, bolt-on rail cover. DSA makes one that is rock solid and allows you to mount a LPVO (Low Power Variable Optic). An LPVO, which usually ranges from 1x to 6x or 1x to 8x magnification, is perfect for the FAL’s effective range.
• Muzzle Device: The original long flash hider is iconic but doesn't do much for recoil. Replacing it with a modern muzzle brake can make the 7.62 NATO round feel much more manageable.
• Ergonomic Grip: The original plastic grips can be thin and slippery. Modern versions provide better texture and a more natural angle for the shooter's hand.

Training and Proficiency

Owning a battle rifle is only half the battle. The FAL is a "pro-grade" firearm. It has more recoil than an AR-15 and the manual of arms is slightly different. The magazine release and the bolt hold-open are in different locations than what most American shooters are used to. That is why Where to Get Tactical Training matters as much as the rifle itself.

• Practice the "Reload": The FAL uses a "rock and lock" magazine system, similar to an AK-47. It is not a straight-in insert.
• Master the Gas System: You should know exactly which click on your gas regulator is required for your defensive ammo versus your practice ammo.
• Zeroing: Ensure you understand the mechanical offset of your optic. Because the FAL has a high sight line, your MOA (Minute of Angle) adjustments will be critical for accuracy at varying distances. A Minute of Angle is an angular measurement used to describe accuracy, roughly equal to 1 inch at 100 yards.

Selecting a FAL for Your Loadout

If you are just getting started with tactical gear and the Lieutenant tier or Captain tiers, a full-sized battle rifle might be a future goal. However, for those in our higher tiers who are refining their long-term preparedness, a 7.62 rifle is a cornerstone piece of equipment.

When selecting a FAL, consider your environment:

• Urban/Vehicle Use: Look at a shorter 16-inch or 11-inch barrel. It will be louder, but much easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Rural/Open Terrain: Stick with the traditional 18-inch or 21-inch barrel. This maximizes the velocity of the 7.62 round and provides a longer sight radius if you are using iron sights.

Regardless of the barrel length, the FAL is a heavy rifle. You need a high-quality sling and a robust belt system to carry the weight of the rifle and its heavy ammunition.

Conclusion

The FN FAL is one of the most successful firearm designs in human history. While FN Herstal has moved its production to the SCAR series, the FAL lives on through the dedicated work of manufacturers like DS Arms. It remains in production because it offers a combination of power, reliability, and "cool factor" that few other rifles can match. Whether you are a collector or a serious tactician, the modern FAL is a rugged, capable platform that can handle almost any scenario.

At Crate Club, we are about more than just gear; we are about the mindset of being prepared for anything. Building a kit that includes a battle-proven rifle like the FAL shows a commitment to the "no sissy stuff" philosophy we live by. Our team of Spec Ops veterans and professionals hand-picks gear that complements this high-level equipment, from medical kits to advanced optics. If you want to build your arsenal and your skills with gear that has been field-tested by pros, there is a place for you in our community, and the General tier is built for that level of readiness.

Bottom line: The FN FAL is still in production through DS Arms, offering a modernized version of the world's most famous battle rifle for the 21st-century operator.

FAQ

Is the FN FAL better than the AR-10?

It depends on your mission. The AR-10 is generally more accurate and easier to mount accessories on, while the FAL is more rugged and has an adjustable gas system that handles foul conditions better. For a "pure" battle rifle that can take a beating, many operators still prefer the steel-on-steel construction of the FAL.

Can I still buy an original Belgian-made FAL?

Yes, but only on the used market. These are highly sought-after collector's items and usually command a very high price. For a rifle you intend to use and train with regularly, a new production model from a reputable manufacturer like DS Arms is often a more practical choice.

What is the effective range of a modern production FAL?

With a 18-inch or 21-inch barrel and quality optics, an experienced shooter can effectively engage targets out to 600–800 yards. The 7.62x51mm round has the energy to be effective at these distances, though the FAL is generally considered a 2–3 MOA rifle rather than a precision sniper platform.

Are FAL magazines interchangeable between different brands?

Generally, yes, as long as you match the "pattern." Most modern FALs use the Metric pattern magazine. If you have an Inch-pattern rifle (like a British L1A1), you will need Inch-pattern magazines, although some Metric magazines can be modified to work in Inch guns (but not vice versa).