DS Arms: American FALs for the 21st Century

The FAL is a legendary battle rifle still sought after by many, but for the average American, the most obtainable examples will be from DS Arms.DSA FAL Options:Traditional FAL RiflesModernized FAL RiflesFolding-Stocked FAL RiflesFAL PistolsFAL SBRsAs the world’s most iconic battle rifle, it is no surprise that the FAL is still a very sought-after weapon. FALs are still a top choice for gun collectors, regardless of their historical heritage or the quality of the design. Unfortunately, the golden age for imported FALs has passed. It was once that everything, from original Belgian-made FN examples through to Brazilian IMBELs, could be imported. But these days, even parts kits, are very rare. A FAL will not be cheap, but it won’t cost as much as collectible imports. DS Arms, an American company that builds FALs from scratch is the best and most affordable way to get on the platform. A DS Arms FAL can be used to scratch many different needs: modernized fighting carbines, traditional military clones, and DMRs. Whether you’re looking for a cold warrior to LARP with as a Selous Scout, or something more modern than an AR-10 to fling steel downrange, DSA is a company to consider. Founded in Illinois in the early 1990s, DS Arms has been America’s leading FAL manufacturer. Although smaller shops can build you a FAL, none of them have the industry scale like DSA. DS Arms builds FALs with new tooling and a modernized production process. They make most of their parts in house and outsource a few other parts like barrels. Their guns are 100% American-made and not subject to any import restrictions like 922r. DSA FAL rifles are the main supplier to civilian markets. However, it is not unusual for users to experience issues with a brand new rifle. Their customer service is excellent and will happily take the rifle back to correct any issues before returning it. You can be unlucky if this happens, but you will still have a reliable rifle at the end. The Traditional DSA FAL is the most popular FAL rifle available from DS Arms. It features a fixed stock, 21 inch-long barrel, carry handle, and classic profile furniture. There are a few variations to the theme. Some models have a railed topcover or a shorter barrel, while others have more traditional designs. However, even their most classic offerings can be updated with modern improvements that may not please those who are obsessed about clone-correct details such as the bolt carrier’s sand cuts. A DSA is not the best option if you want your FAL authentic down to every detail. These guns are entry-level guns that can be made close to a military clone for most shooters. However, pedants should look to the secondhand market for FALs that are almost authentic. DSA also has some folding stock “paratrooper”, models that are based on original FN designs. Sometimes they build unique examples from parts kits, as was the case with their Israeli FALs. These FAL rifles can be customized in a variety of ways depending on your personal taste. They look very similar to the current-issue FALs from several countries when they are left in their original black plastic furniture. However, in a world of black plastic, it is nice to mix and match things every now and again. Photo:Rock Island Auction Company. Photo by Rock Island Auction Company. Going ModernIf you are interested in the FAL platform for other reasons, DSA likely has a configuration that suits your needs. FALs are not the most accurate battle rifles ever made, but they have enough accuracy to be used in a DMR role with the right accessories and rifle. These FALs were used by militaries to attach their scopes using traditional claw mounts. DSA offers more modern options like railed top cover. Modern stocks and bipods make the FAL a more practical DMR option. DS Arms also offers a variety of tactical short-barreled options for those who want to use their FAL for high-speed, low drag operation. Because the FAL’s original 21 inch-long barrel is now shorter than the 18-inch models, the term short-barreled can be used in this context. The DSA rifles have an 11-inch barrel, while the FAL pistols have an 8.25 inch barrel. Factory SBRs are rifle models with barrels shorter than 16 inches and must be registered NFA items in order to legally acquire them. Many tactical FAL models have upgraded furniture that allows for mounting accessories and optics. You can have modern-style, ergonomic folding stocks. There is also a large market for aftermarket FAL parts. It is possible to bring a FAL into 21st-century style, much like the AKs did over the years. As long as children are watching movies, playing video games, and reading the news, there will be people who feel the need to own one. DSA FAL rifles are vital to keeping the platform alive. The instability of imports cannot replace domestic production. Regardless of your reason for wanting to explore this platform, DS Arms can help you get started. Target grids and bullseye sizes can be downloaded in MOA. Perfect for long-range shooting! Get free targets