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FN Herstal SCAR 17S
FN Herstal SCAR 17S rifle in 7.62x51mm NATO: specs, history, ammo and Colorado legal notes from the CO Boots gun library. Want hands-on time with a firearm like the FN Herstal SCAR 17S? Our certified instructors cover safe handling, operation and marksmanship in every firearms training class.
| Library ID | GT-1732 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | FN Herstal |
| Type | Rifle |
| Caliber | 7.62x51mm NATO |
| Action | Semi-automatic |
| Barrel Length | 16 inches (406 mm) |
| Country of Origin | Belgium |
| Year of Production | 2009 |
| Production Status | In production |
| Typical Users | Military, Law Enforcement, Civilians |
| Rating | 4.5 |
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Technical Specifications
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a semi-automatic rifle designed for versatility and reliability. It is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester), making it suitable for a range of tactical applications. The standard barrel length is 16.25 inches, providing a balance between maneuverability and accuracy. The rifle weighs approximately 8 pounds (without magazine), contributing to manageable handling.
The SCAR 17S features a monolithic upper receiver made from aluminum, enhancing strength and reducing weight. It has a unique short-stroke gas piston system, which minimizes recoil and fouling, promoting reliability in harsh conditions. The adjustable folding stock allows for customizable length of pull and portability.
Key features include a Picatinny rail for mounting optics, ambidextrous controls, and a 20-round polymer magazine. Its modular design enables easy customization and maintenance, making it a favored choice among military and civilian users alike.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Performance Characteristics
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a semi-automatic rifle chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, known for its robust design and versatility.
Accuracy: The SCAR 17S boasts a cold hammer-forged barrel, contributing to exceptional accuracy, typically under 1 MOA with match-grade ammunition at 100 yards.
Reliability: Designed for military use, it exhibits high reliability in diverse conditions, functioning well with various ammunition types, including surplus and commercial loads.
Handling: The SCAR 17S features a monolithic upper receiver, allowing for easy attachment of optics and accessories. Its adjustable stock and piston-driven gas system enhance comfort and manage recoil effectively.
Rate of Fire: As a semi-automatic platform, it allows for rapid follow-up shots, with a practical rate of fire dependent on shooter skill but generally efficient for tactical engagements.
Overall, the SCAR 17S combines accuracy, reliability, and user-friendly handling, making it suitable for both civilian and professional applications.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Design Features
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a versatile semi-automatic rifle known for its robust design and modern features.
Ergonomics: The SCAR 17S features an adjustable stock with a cheek piece, allowing for a customizable length of pull. Its ambidextrous controls, including the magazine release and safety, enhance usability for both right- and left-handed shooters. The pistol grip is contoured for comfort and control.
Safety Mechanisms: It incorporates a ambidextrous safety selector and a firing pin safety to prevent accidental discharges. The bolt catch is also ambidextrous, providing ease of operation.
Aesthetic Design: The SCAR 17S has a sleek, tactical appearance with a polymer lower receiver and a monolithic upper receiver. The flat dark earth (FDE) finish gives it a modern military look.
Innovative Features: It utilizes a short-stroke gas piston system for reliability and reduced recoil, and the quick-change barrel allows for adaptability to different mission requirements. The integrated Picatinny rails facilitate easy mounting of accessories.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Historical Context
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a semi-automatic variant of the SCAR (Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle) developed for the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) in the mid-2000s. Designed by FN Herstal in Belgium, it emerged from a competition to replace the M4 carbine. The SCAR was officially adopted in 2007, with the SCAR 17S chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO being designed for versatility and modularity.
Key milestones include its selection by SOCOM and the subsequent release to civilian markets. The SCAR 17S gained notoriety for its reliability in combat, particularly in operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Its design has influenced modern firearm development, emphasizing modular components and adaptability for various missions. The SCAR series has been adopted by several military and law enforcement units worldwide, solidifying its impact on tactical firearm design, focusing on multi-role capability and user customization.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: User Experience
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is highly regarded for its robust performance and versatile design. Users praise its comfortable adjustable stock and ergonomic pistol grip, which enhance overall handling and reduce fatigue during prolonged use. The rifle's lightweight construction contributes to its ease of maneuverability, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios.
In terms of ease of use, the SCAR 17S features a straightforward operating system and ambidextrous controls, allowing for intuitive handling for both left- and right-handed shooters. Users appreciate the quick-change barrel feature and easy disassembly for maintenance.
Durability is a strong point, with many users reporting that the SCAR 17S can withstand harsh conditions without significant wear. However, some common complaints include the rifle's higher price point and a limited availability of aftermarket accessories compared to other models. Additionally, some users find the recoil to be more pronounced than expected, which can impact accuracy for less experienced shooters. Overall, the SCAR 17S is celebrated for its performance and reliability.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Ammunition Information
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a semi-automatic rifle chambered primarily in the 7.62x51mm NATO caliber, commonly referred to as .308 Winchester. This caliber is well-known for its versatility and effectiveness in various shooting applications, including tactical, hunting, and competitive shooting.
The SCAR 17S is compatible with a wide range of ammunition brands, including Federal Premium, Hornady, Winchester, Remington, and others. It can reliably fire standard ball ammunition, match-grade rounds, and specialized types like hollow points and soft points for enhanced terminal performance.
For optimal performance, many users recommend using match-grade ammunition, such as the Hornady Match or Federal Gold Medal, for precision shooting. Additionally, military-grade loads designed for the SCAR platform, such as M80 ball or 7.62 NATO surplus ammo, can provide reliable functioning and accuracy. The SCAR 17S also has a reputation for handling a variety of bullet weights, typically ranging from 147 to 175 grains.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Usage Tips and Best Practices
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a versatile and robust rifle. Here are some usage tips and best practices:
Cleaning and Maintenance:
1. Field Strip Regularly: Familiarize yourself with the disassembly process. Clean the bolt carrier group and barrel after each session.
2. Use Quality Lubricants: Apply CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant) to moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
3. Inspect Parts: Regularly check for wear on the bolt, extractor, and recoil springs.
4. Store Properly: Keep the rifle in a dry, cool place. Use a silicone cloth to prevent rust.
Shooting Tips:
1. Adjust the Stock: Utilize the adjustable stock for proper length of pull and cheek weld.
2. Practice Trigger Control: Focus on a smooth squeeze rather than a quick pull.
3. Stance and Grip: Use a stable shooting stance and a firm grip to control recoil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
1. Neglecting Maintenance: Regular cleaning prevents malfunctions.
2. Improper Zeroing: Ensure your optics are zeroed properly before extended use.
3. Over-lubrication: Too much lubricant can attract dirt and debris.
Master these practi
Legal Considerations in Colorado
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S is a semi-automatic rifle that is legally classified as a firearm in the United States. As a civilian version of the military SCAR platform, it is legal to own in most states, but regulations vary significantly.
In states like California, New York, and New Jersey, the SCAR 17S may be restricted or banned due to features classified as "assault weapons." In contrast, states like Texas and Florida generally have fewer restrictions, allowing civilian ownership with fewer limitations.
Military use of the SCAR 17S is prevalent, as it is used by various armed forces globally. Legal cases involving the SCAR primarily revolve around compliance with state and federal firearm laws, but no notable cases specifically target the SCAR 17S as a model. Always check local laws for specific regulations, as they can change frequently.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Reviews and Ratings
User reviews for the FN Herstal SCAR 17S highlight a strong consensus regarding its reliability and accuracy. Many users praise the rifle for its consistent performance, even in adverse conditions, noting that it functions flawlessly with a variety of ammunition types. The accuracy is frequently commended, with users reporting impressive groupings at various ranges.
However, some reviews mention that the rifle can be on the pricier side, which is a common point of contention for potential buyers. Customer service experiences vary, with some users reporting satisfactory interactions while others express frustration over response times and support quality.
Overall satisfaction tends to be high among owners, who appreciate the SCAR 17S's modularity and build quality. Despite the cost and occasional customer service issues, most users feel the investment is justified due to the rifle's superior performance and versatility in both tactical and sporting contexts.
FN Herstal SCAR 17S: Appearances in Media
The FN Herstal SCAR 17S has appeared in various movies, TV shows, and video games. Here’s a brief list:
Movies:
1. "Act of Valor" (2012) - The SCAR 17S is used by Navy SEALs in this action film.
2. "The Expendables 2" (2012) - Featured as a weapon used by various characters.
3. "American Sniper" (2014) - Used by military personnel in this biographical war film.
TV Shows:
1. "The Walking Dead" - Characters have been seen using the SCAR 17S during various seasons.
2. "Seal Team" - Featured prominently as a weapon used by the elite team.
3. "The Unit" - Used by the special forces team throughout the series.
Video Games:
1. "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare" (2019) - The SCAR 17S appears as a customizable weapon in the game.
2. "Battlefield 4" - The weapon is available for players to use.
3. "Rainbow Six Siege" - The SCAR 17 is utilized by certain operators in the game.
This list highlights some notable appearances of the FN SCAR 17S across various media.
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