Century International Arms FAL R1A1


Century’s economical version of the
Belgian FN Herstal FAL battle rifle. This was an
extremely successful design of late 1950s vintage that was ultimately used by
the armies of over 100 countries before lighter assault rifles with small caliber
chamberings became fashionable. This bastardized copy uses a mix-match of
parts from Israel, South Africa, Belgium, and the US, and is chambered in 7.62
x 51 mm NATO (.308 Winchester). It has
an adjustable short-stroke piston gas system, and a 21 inch standard post-ban
barrel that has since been threaded and a Belgian flash hider installed. It also uses standard 20 round FAL
magazines. It generally carries an
Israeli surplus 4x Trilux scope, a thirty year old
design historically correct for this rifle.
Its near-range setting is zeroed for 300 meters and its far-range setting
is an approximate 490 meter zero. The backup rear iron sight is adjustable for
ranges between 200 and 600 meters but is most accurate at 300 meters. When first acquired, it was a rust
bucket. All new springs, several new
parts, and loving care has turned it into a now reliable workhorse and personal
favorite.