I just handled an FAL in a local shop for the first time today and I was impressed! Much better balance than any .308 HK I have shot (all are very front heavy), it was pretty light too. It was a Pacific Armament Imbel FAL, 21" barrel w/ pinned muzzle brake, very short wood buttstock (too short), and cheap, flimsy plastic handguard that flexed when I gripped it.
I LOVE the bolt hold open and bolt release, the charging handle is the most ergonomic that I have used (way better location than HK's and AR's) and the mags are much quicker and easier to change than HK mags.
I have to say that HK's have the advantage in the sights department, the FAL's peep sight is too large and there is no other smaller/long-range aperature. Also, I could turn the gas valve adjuster (knurled ring on gas block behind front sight) very easily by hand, is that normal? Seems like it could easily get knocked out of place and cause a malfunction.
Overall, I am now looking for a 16" or 18" barrel Imbel FAL as my next purchase, I love .308's!!! I still love HK's, but I think the FAL has the slight overall advantage with the mag release, bolt hold open/bolt release and better balance.
I LOVE the bolt hold open and bolt release, the charging handle is the most ergonomic that I have used (way better location than HK's and AR's) and the mags are much quicker and easier to change than HK mags.
I have to say that HK's have the advantage in the sights department, the FAL's peep sight is too large and there is no other smaller/long-range aperature. Also, I could turn the gas valve adjuster (knurled ring on gas block behind front sight) very easily by hand, is that normal? Seems like it could easily get knocked out of place and cause a malfunction.
Overall, I am now looking for a 16" or 18" barrel Imbel FAL as my next purchase, I love .308's!!! I still love HK's, but I think the FAL has the slight overall advantage with the mag release, bolt hold open/bolt release and better balance.
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