I have always been, and still am, a huge fan of the FAL, but I recently sold my DSA SA58 PARA with the view to replacing it with a new .308 AR in the near future, probably the LMT MWS.
If it was my first “fighting” rifle I would certainly go with a quality AR15 over an FAL.
After you have an AR15 squared away and suitable training, then you should buy whatever you want.
Cameron
I agree with most of what has been said here. Start with an AR of reputable manufacture. You have picked top performers in both calibers however, and a FAL should be your second purchase…
you have to be careful when you lump these weapons into one pile. I have a FAL, but my FAL is a DSA SA58 tactical, w/ 16inch fluted barrel, forearm and reciever rail that stretch the lenght of the top and are both very sturdy, a para folder, nickle phospate coating on the bolt and all of the internals, polished trigger…etc. (there is about 3500.00 worth of work and parts in this rifle1).
So my FAL and your idea of a FAL or one of the FALs that Styer may be referring to is night and day! This is an accurate, sturdy and reliable weapon that could also be used as a club/mace if I run out of ammo (it is a beast in the weight dept.), but I’m 6’4" 270lbs and workout 5days either on cardio or free weights, or circuit training so it’s not that big of a deal to schlep this thing around.
In contrast an M4 feels like and looks like a toy when I’m holding it. Which can be a big plus. when moving around as well.
What I’m trying to say is that you need to go shoot them both and handle them. then you need be truthful with your self on which you keep coming back to in your mind. Don’t let someone else make this decision for you.
These are both well made weapons that have been battle tested and are both still being used in some capacity around the world. There’s a reason for this.
also, and this is just a thought. Have you considered a high end AK in 7.62X39?
Sure, I have. I wish I had more opportunities to try these rifles.
0-400 yards why do you want a heavier gun with more punishing recoil and less capability for accuracy? 5.56 all the way. No reason you need the terminal performance of a 308 inside of 400 yards. 77OTM will get it done nicely from 0-500, there is no magic bullet, shot placement and practical training are far more important.
ETA: If you just want a fun gun and you like FAL’s, then don’t hesitate to get one, they are fun great guns, just not at all what I would have in mind for duty use.
From what you have said you want is a rifle, get the Noveske in 5.56.
An FAL isn’t going to offer anything over the Noveske for your stated purpose for the rifle.
Also, think about the cost of ammunition…
Get the lightweight colt and remington 700 for hunting and solid optics for both.
-Chris-
My M4 and FAL combo.
Own many of both. I agree with much that has already been said. I shoot ARs 99% of the time. Several ARs are easily accesible, locked and loaded as HD, WD, SHTF, etc. The FALs and other .308 are stored in the safe. But, the word “cover” takes on a whole new meeting if your shooting a .308 at a threat!
Our trainig group makes a point of having a “Battle Rifle” day ever so often. After “running & gunning” with a AR most of the time this is always an eye opening experience for many of the reasons previously explained in theis thread.