Fn Fal Metric vs. Inch Identification Guide !!!

[@colddrawcollector338]

I am glad that this video exists, and want to express gratitude. I also want to express that they could cover these points in 5 minutes instead of 30. Here are the non-exhaustive highlights: *_Shortcut_* 10:48 - Main difference is the carry handle. Metric = ribbed, Inch = smooth on one side, finger grooves on the other. *_Inch FAL_* 5:14: - Probably has long flash hider with bayonet lug 5:50 - No bipod cut (unless SAW), wide notch in gas plug, no QD on adjustable gas block 6:35 - Typically open-eared (caveat: metric Argentine barrels will also have this) with a blade front sight 6:55 - Parts number on gas block 7:09 - Parts number on charging handle, lower receiver near pistol grip, takedown lever, possibly others (unclear from video) 8:26 - "more elongated" profile on trigger guard 8:40 - "step" (ergonomic cut) for selector lever 9:52 - Folding side-charging handle (caveat: can show up on metric FALs via modification) 12:50 - sand cuts on bolt (warning: he goes on about these for almost 2 minutes) 14:44 - Lightening cut on magwell (warnings: awkward finger-stroking, nasty finger close-up) 15:00 - other lightening cuts on rear of receiver, "candy-cane cuts." *_Metric FAL_* 7:42 - Few if any parts numbers 8:26 - less "elongated" profile on trigger guard 12:50 - no sand cuts on bolt (warning: he goes on about these for almost 2 minutes) 16:30 - No lightening cut on magwell or elsewhere (warnings: continued awkward finger-stroking, continued nasty finger close-ups) After this, everything else is either repetition of the above points with continued awkward stroking. There are numerous other differences to consider that are not covered, and looking up front/rear sight differences can help you avoid some headaches, but this is a good start, and, again, I'm grateful to the makers, despite my complaints.

[@imbaroud5273]

thank you so much, save alot of times

[@AngeredKabar]

Just found out Browning sold some FN FALs way back when. Neat history with these rifles.

[@ChromeFreak123]

It sure is and thanks for watching. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

@unomas58 Once you develop an eye for the variance, the inch and metric FAL stand apart like night and day. However, there are plenty of mix-masters out there and you should become comfortable with identifying FAL's that are the mix of inch and metric parts - say an inch kit on a modified metric receiver. No harm in buying one if U can shoot it first to check for function and if the price is right.

[@unomas58]

This was absolutely fascinating.This is the first time I have taken notes during a video.I'm checking around now for a parts kit or complete rifle.I much prefer to build one if I can find what I want.Thank both of you guys very much.Excellent video.

[@ChromeFreak123]

Ya, we do show the difference in magazines in the video but wanted to cover all bases. Thanks.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@TheQ3XXX It seems the Brits were terrified of stoppages as this was their first SLR to be adopted. Some early variants of the inch pattern FAL had a stripper-clip type top cover exposing more of the bolt carrier group to the elements. The sand cuts were updated several times thru the design life to enhance their efficiency. The kits I had built were made in the 60’s and70’s and the last shot hold open was disabled on both so it may have been so from the get go - John for Chromefreak123

[@ChromeFreak123]

@logan122881 Me too, lol. I want one really badly and hopefully I will be able to get one soon enough. I am really impressed with the engineering on these great battle rifles. I appreciate you watching and contributing to the talk about it. Thank You. : )

[@patrickcortez4471]

I have a metric fn fal,that was made from a parts kit. My gunsmith used a Enterprise arms type 3 metric receiver to put together a nice metric fn fal,rifle for me.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@badbrainprep It's hard to go wrong with a DSA gun - the older ones built using the STG58 parts kits are golden. Current guns have mostly USA made parts. This is a result of running out of imported demilled kits to use as a base. But DSA essentially makes their in-house parts according to the original Steyr specs and blueprints and the quality is amazing.

[@LiftHeavy1]

Are theirs inch or metric?

[@HungHPhan]

Update: I lubed it well with cleaning oil, heated it with wife's hair dryer and tap on the tube for a while and the piston came out. It was actually quite clean. I also was able to loosen the gas regulator with a wrench. Still a bit concerned about whether the gas tube should be fixed or if it's ok to turn back and forth a few degrees. Really love the feel of this rifle.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@zx12ryder You know, I am not really sure but will ask John about it and comment back to you when I know for sure. Thanks. : )

[@krazy45cat]

Hey Guys , I watched the whole video :) Mike I have to agree with you about John . He is the go to guy on firearms . I'm still in awe from the gun show . When we walked up to that table with the FN on it he knew more than the seller . My head is still spinning . I'd like to know about those new Draco Pistols that might be my next one . Of course I would get from K&W Gunworks . Gerry

[@johnrousch9149]

Great video.FN's are the king of all battle rifles.I qualified on an FN C1A1.Would'nt the easiest way to tell the difference between an Inch and Metric FNFAL be to just look at the magazine?They are very different and are not interchangeable.

[@ChromeFreak123]

I have seen people make different mags work in different guns for sure. Thanks.

[@ChromeFreak123]

Ya we missed a few things. Its hard to remember to cover all and then you try and remember whet you did cover as you went. lol. I think we talked about the magazines. I appreciate any and all feedback, it is appreciated. : )

[@lskw1]

didn't know much about these guns, but do now!

[@ChromeFreak123]

@MyHollowpoint Ya, I wish either one of them were mine. lol. Thanks for watching. : )

[@KrispyRootbeer]

Make sure you check the mag well to see what notch you got in the front of the mag well. The inch guns have a bigger squared off notch and the metric has a small dimple on the front of the mag. This is why you have to rock and lock the magazine. Make sure you have the right mag for it. You can get away with using metric mags on a inch but it will be a lil loose. You can't do it the other way around.

[@fishndoc11]

I love how informative your videos are. Thanks and keep up the good work.

[@AlexSDU]

I hate to say this, but your sling setting on the SLR(British FAL) is wrong. The hook should face outward, not toward the rifle. I hope that'll help. BTW, I really like your explanation on the differences between the FAL & the SLR. They really help a lot.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@lordofwar2006 Thats great, I appreciate you watching and commenting. I want one pretty badly. lol. Thanks again. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

@Everett07630 Good parts kits are hard to find and will run $400 to $750. A good receiver will be about $400 too. BTW a good guy on the FAL Files Forum with a screen name of SLR-5000 has gear logo Imbel receivers for sale so there is a good start if U want to build a nice metric gun.

[@TJH1994]

Great Video! I like the Fn Fal, but I haven't seen a decent one in my area.

[@thomas070784]

Good video Mike. I've always been intrigued by these rifles for a long time and now I think I may have to add it to my ever-increasing list of guns I want lol! :)

[@ChromeFreak123]

@ArtisanTony Thank you. We appreciate your watching us babble.

[@patrickcortez4471]

The type 3 receiver is the more modern receiver that came out in the late seventies or early eighties.argentina went from the early to mid recievers to the modern type3 receivers.

[@ChromeFreak123]

No problem, flying out to Johns on Thursday. I will get him to answer you. : )

[@208miuwu]

Great video guys! I purchased a metric parts kit back in 95 I put a Imbel lower reciver on it, I have had ever since and now that I have more intel on it I am wanting to get it up to par with shooting it. Any tips for sighting and parts it still has all the guts it came with I hear you talk about 922 compliant.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@tjh141994 Check gunbroker every now and then but beware of the dreaded century arms inch parts kit on the century modified Imbel receiver - those are usually junk.

[@ChromeFreak123]

I know Federal Arms made imbel and they were top notch. I would do some more research though. I will see John in about 2 weeks and he can tell you all you will need to know about this, just please remind me and I will get him on it. Thanks. : )

[@PaladinHero]

@ChromeFreak123 Ha, oh my bad then! I thought it was the joke implied. Anyway, your channel rules and I'm extremely grateful. Your cleaning/breakdown video for the Mossbergy 590 Mariner comes in handy whenever I clean it and I love hearing what you have to say about stuff like the FAL, which I just put an order in for a STG-58 (they're on MASSIVE back order). Keep it up and know that you have at least one fan in TN!

[@patrickcortez4471]

My metric fal rifle has the type 3 enterprise arms receiver.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@marvintheboon Thanks Marvin, sounds like you have it all down. I love the Eotech. I am happy that John was able to make this video, it is my hope that He can do some more. Thanks. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

I love the FN FAL. thanks. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

Exactly. I am happy it helped you and thanks. : )

[@jaydavis4400]

Oh, forgot - the L2A2 SUIT is quick detachable, and has a range select lever to quickly change between 400 and 600 meters zero. Don't know why they couldn't come in with the tritium element; the FN PS-90s do. Century used to sell an LED light retrofit kit for the L2A2, but in my opinion, it was overly bright. Oddly, my Argentine metric has less perceived recoil than my inch pattern at any gas setting and is more accurate...

[@coreyfaehrmann1580]

Bit late to the party but outstanding video it was great taught me soo much

[@ChromeFreak123]

Yes Sir, jump on it but I will have John directly answer you in a day or 2. I am sick with something from the trip, my stomach is doing flips.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@krazy45cat Thanks Gerry, John is a very special person and I am proud to call Him friend., you too. : )

[@HungHPhan]

Hi. Thank you for the video. It's very informative. I'm a total gun noob and am trying to educate myself. I just bought a used Century Arms R1A1 308 for $1650 at a gunshow. I know I probably over paid for it but I'm desperate to get something before they ban it. I am unable to get the piston out of the gas tube after I've removed the knob. Nor can I turn the gas selector knob. However the gas tube itself turns. Is this normal? How can I remove the gas piston to clean it? Thank you.

[@ChromeFreak123]

You should take it to a good reputable Gunsmith in your area. You do need to be 922r compliant and if you Google that, you will get all the info you can handle. If you are competent enough and have the right tools, it could be a great home build. Thanks. : )

[@JDGless]

VERY GOOD MOB GENTLEMEN. FINALLY I CAN EASILY DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE TWO!

[@Lordofwar2006]

nice video now i know 100% that i have a inc

[@rippersix293]

I guess I own a "FreakN FAL", mine was made from an L1A1 inch pattern parts kit built on an Imbel type 3 metric Lower. It has never had a fail to fire or feed. It's a rock solid shooter! I guess CAI got this one put together right. I bought it in '98 as one of those damned "sporter" rifles with a "thumbhole" stock and no flash hider, the guy I bought it off of gave me an L1A1 stock and receiver in the deal. Added the 922r parts to it and swapped out that ugly thumbhole stock/receiver, still haven't gotten a flash hider, but it's been on the "to do list" for 19 years...

[@christopherbost5387]

Charles McCrimmon I have one of those from back then too. I got a full set of USA new plastic furniture from Century Arms for $17, sanded,fitted, and painted OD green on it. I recently put the DSA picatinny top cover and a Vortex scope on it. My rifle is a BSA L1A1 surplus lower (1958) with a new Embel inch pattern upper with a new barrel (threads cut off). I know it's said that Embel uppers are metric but, mine uses inch mags and gas system. The gas systems aren't interchangeable as you know. Bad reputation by most but a rock solid rifle like you got. Oh yeah, $323. from Roses dept. store.

[@jaydavis4400]

There are 2 points I'd like to add. The metric mags have a small locking "tit", but the inch mags have a larger "lug". Mets fit the inchers, but not vice versa. Also, the takedown lever is different - inch is vertical, and met is L shaped. Did you talk about the saftey sear? Regardless, when the L85 bullpups failed in Iraq 1991, the Brits pulled their L1A1's out of armory because they worked in sand (carrier cuts)...Also U didn't mention the L2A2 sight being offset to allow the carry handle use.

[@adamvan-eckmann4190]

Would Metric US or Brazilian Furniture fit a inch Rifle L1A1?

[@alanfaulkner6329]

Two fine looking weapons. Inch pattern however will always win. 🇬🇧

[@mrmezmureyz]

hey bro ,,, where can I obtain an FN flash hider ??? the one I have had that item removed !!!

[@ChromeFreak123]

@AngeredKabar I will ask John about that. Thanks, they do have a wealthy history.

[@109ethan]

You're not kidding when you say beautiful.

[@ArtisanTony]

Very nice rifles!

[@yojimbo05]

Can I get your input on getting Magazines for a Inch FN-FAL R1A1? Trying to find metal magazines for a R1A1 can you help me thanks.

[@ChromeFreak123]

Good for you. I believe your gun is fine. thanks.

[@ChromeFreak123]

Go with your gut and with a FAL, I would shy away from CAI. Thats not a knock on them, they have improved their quality control alot but ya, you know what I am saying. : ) It will not be FA, no worries there. Thanks. : )

[@208miuwu]

Chrome Freak great info/video as always I have a metric FAL with the gear logo Imbel receiver W/ a bipod I am putting it up for sale, how much should I ask for it. I built it about 20 years ago and shot it about 200 rounds, it sits in my safe don`t have the time anymore. Thanks

[@nonyabidness6492]

500 bucks, I'll buy it off you

[@ChromeFreak123]

Thanks for watching. : )

[@WORRO]

Really good video, thanks for posting and sharing the information! Thumbs up!~~John

[@ChromeFreak123]

@fishndoc11 Thank you so much but I must say, this one is all John. : )

[@johnski4709]

What about a CAI bulit with non gear logo Imbel receiver?

[@lisar3006]

What about the nylon after market magazines do they work Okay. I have original mags but would like to use the $15.00 plastic mags to save the good ones since they cost about $60.00 now. i just got a l1A1 that has a combination of both metric and inch in this video with a Imbel receiver with wood furniture.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@ristin59 Poor John was going as fast as he could and kept calling the carry handle the charging handle...LOL! I think we took about 500 pages of FN FAL information and squished them down into a 27 min video. Lost of folks are gonna be needing the rewind button.

[@MrBigJake75]

But you didn’t cover the mag well

[@ChromeFreak123]

@mrmezmureyz DSArms should have a US made exact replica of teh Belgian style FH or you try Brad at gunthings (google gunthings) and they usually have all types of originals in stock

[@mrmezmureyz]

GREAT DUDE !!!!!! T H A N K S for that much needed info !!!

[@ChromeFreak123]

Your welcome.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@mrmezmureyz Thanks for watching. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

I will have to make a video on this and will if you give me a week or 2. Each CAI gun needs to be looked at individually. They build great guns and they build disasters. I think you did ok though considering whats going on. Thanks. : )

[@pukalo]

I want a FAL but Canadian govt says they're too scary to own.

[@ChromeFreak123]

@PaladinHero lol, ok, That is not what I thought when I first saw one but to each his own. lol. Thanks. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

@lskw1 Thanks Frank, if you love Garands, you will love these babies. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

Thank You. : )

[@MyHollowpoint]

Beautiful weapons :)

[@ChromeFreak123]

@PaladinHero Hey thanks bro..., I have another friend in TN, not a fan, I am not a celebrity just another gun fanatic like you. : ) Thanks again brother.

[@ChromeFreak123]

Ya, send me some pics. Thanks. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

I care about my camera, thanks for asking. : )

[@ewing71]

I have recently acquired an FAL as gift made from a parts kit and insured is 922 compliant (saying that right?) It is my new love! Being military trained I was stuck on M4 style weapons. Additionally, I cam across a stripped lower and a barrel but do not know how to identify them, inch or metric ect. Do you think I can get some help from you in figuring out what they are?

[@ChromeFreak123]

@MadBadVoodo Thanks MBV as always. : )

[@pauldharmer]

It's not a charging handle

[@ChromeFreak123]

lol, ya a camera makes your mistakes last forever. lol. Thanks. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

@biguy525 Thank you Sir. : )

[@ChromeFreak123]

No problem bro., just please remind me because I am a forgetful. : )

[@idessaoutlaw]

Thats a CARRY HANDLE...not a charging handle...and the sand cuts are in the BOLT CARRIER not the bolt...

[@hippiebuckshot8841]

The butt stock is the 2 second give away..

[@MadBadVoodo]

★★★★★

[@adamcovella813]

Damn long video. I watch it all and you didn't address the one and only question I had. How to tell the difference in the mags? Does a metric mag fit into a inch gun? Come on

[@falafel1860]

bad sound quality guys

[@ChromeFreak123]

That sucks. Ok. : )

[@radarsonwheels1]

I watched this to learn inch vs metric differences- not rifle nomenclature! I learned a lot about FAL variations and thought the video was well filmed and narrated. Only an idiot would think the carry handle is a charging handle. The sand cuts in the bolt carrier are very interesting and he wasn't trying to explain what a bolt is he was trying to explain why the british one looks like reverse diamondplate.

[@tjlee300zxtt]

Hey I just saw this video and have some questions about my fal can I get ur email so I can send some pictures

[@ChromeFreak123]

Thank You. : )