The FNFAL (STG-58A flavor) is a big heavy pig. The handguards get really hot (especially with the stock metal stocks), with even moderate use. The sights (as noted above) are less than ideal for accuracy, and with milsurp ammo generally run 4-6" at 100 yards.
That being said, I love the FAL. It's built like a tank and can withstand any amount of abuse I can dish out. It's also versatile enough to allow for a fair amount of add on parts and accesories (nothing like an AR-15, but not bad). Recoil is also pretty well soaked up by all that weight. The FAL comes in many versions from highly accurate match grade ($$$) to short carbine folding stock full auto versions.
I opted to go with a DSA STG-58A and have made a few modifications along the way.
This is the SA-58 type 2 (made in america) receiver (cut for carry handle), surplus Steyr full length barrel with DSA muzzle brake, DSA freefloat handguard with Versa-pod bipod, VOW para rear sight, Arms dust cover scope mount and Falcon ergo G3 grips.
I like my FAL just fine and don't plan on parting with it anytime soon.
-LeadPumper