I currently have a Fal (L1A1 built on a Century receiver) that I bought used and really like it now that it works. I had to open up the rails where the magazine sits in the upper receiver for it to feed correctly. After running about 500 rounds through it I have gained confidence in that rifle but do not like the length of the barrel and the space needle of a flash hider. I had thought about sending it in and having the barrel cut and threaded for standard threads so I could order the Battle comp for it. Then realized they would more than likely have to remove the barrel which means head spacing would need to be done. On a Fal that requires the right tools, locking shoulder of the correct size and the experience of working on Fals. Enter the Para Fal from DS Arms with 18’’barrel and folding stock with M4 stock adapter for proper check weld with optics but a different recoil spring assembly.
So I was wondering about real world reliability vs. theorticial reliability of the Para Fal compared to the original Fal. I have heard that Para Fal is not as reliable due to the placement of the recoil springs.
I have never heard of any reliability issue with a para FAL version, while the standard model is more common, tens of thousands of para versions were made and thousands of standard FAL’s are being converted to para configuration.
I built my FAL para over 12 years ago, no issues at all.
I wouldn’t worry too much about the bolt. It’s a common component between the standard and para configurations, though the carrier is different between the two. In addition to the DSA mnufactured product, there are plenty of surplus ones on the market.
I also have not heard of any problems with the para’s vs standerds. I have a fixed stock lower using an ACE adapter and folding stock. Bought a carrier, top cover and springs and was ready to go.
Agree that the bolt a common component between the varients. The bolt is headspaced to that gun and requires a new locking shoulder if the bolt is changed out for proper hedspacing, hence the many different size locking shoulders.
I am kind of thinking about Para 21’’ Fal.
Edit: The question about the bolt was not about the design but DS Arms production and QC of the bolt
I think the two parameters that affect headspace are barrel removal and reinstallation and receiver swaps, both of which have the potential to change headspace.
To answer your question directly, I’ve only seen the one broken DSA bolt that was posted on one of these sites very recently. The only example that I know of.
If you’re still concerned, there are plenty of surplus on the market. Also, you are correct that you need to headspace with an appropriate locking shoulder.
As do bolt swaps. Many people think you should check headspace after even changing the carrier. I did not but checked the brass after for any signs of something being off.
Indeed, you are quite correct, I should have included bolt changes as affecting headspace.
I agree, those going to 16 inch barrels are giving away lots of energy and velocity for very little benefit. The FAL, and the 7.62x51, ain’t no 5.56x45.
The noise alone, if not suppressed, is punishing. Skull conduction of noise can’t be moderated by ear plugs or muffs.
[I always use the search function before starting a new thread, so I will just post on this thread]
I bought a complete IMBEL parts kit and a DSA Type 1 receiver over the weekend.
I already know I want an 18" PARA FAL. I guess something that’s like the IMBEL 964A1 more or less. Im going to send this over to a professional builder to get it taken care of.
However, on DSA’s page, there are so many different PARA kits available (I know some come with internals and some don’t), but even then, how do I know which kit is the one I need?
I am especially mixed up on the fact that they make a kit for PARA cut receivers but they also make a kit for non PARA cut receivers. What’s the deal?
OR am I just better off sending in the complete lower I have to get it modified into a PARA lower?
Also, if I decide I want one of those dustcover/scopemounts later, do those need to be installed by a gunsmith? Im guessing they are since I see a lot of little screws for it.
