.308 or 7.62x51

[chasem5657]

My buddy has got an L1A1 Sporter can you use 7.62x51 NATO out of an FAL ? It seems to be cheaper ammo compared to .308 Im told .308 heats up faster

[ADAM]

yes you can,L1A1 is actually is designed to shoot 7.62X51 not 308 WIN.

[The Gleam]

7.62x51 - and adjust the gas plus.

Good brief article here on the matter that just showed up in my email the other day from the NRA, so this is timely. It addresses this very point and gives the proper technique for adjusting the gas valve. See #5:

http://www.americanrifleman.org/arti..._campaign=0216

5. 7.62x51 mm NATO is Not .308 Winchester:

Although similar in appearance and dimensions, the two cartridges have different characteristics. Commercially imported FN FAL rifles that are .308 marked will handle both .308 and 7.62x51 mm rounds, but the thinner .308 case can affect extraction. U.S.-assembled parts guns can experience myriad problems. I have witnessed rifles that will cycle .308 and not 7.62 and vice versa.

Such problems stem from the lack of expertise by the assembler. It is not just headspace that is critical, chamber diameter and other factors play an equal role. These problems have often frustrated shooters as the solutions are not always obvious. A well-built FAL rifle will handle just about any (quality) ammo. That said, many FAL owners buy NATO spec ammo, designated by the cross in a circle marking found on casings.

Many would assume that this ammunition is uniformly the same among countries and manufacturers, but it is not. Almost each country uses different cartridge and bullet lengths and weights as well as propellants. While the ammo is interoperable and totally functional, you can expect significant ballistic variances from one country manufacturer to another (see more).

I am often asked what the best gas plug setting is for the FAL, and the answer is that there is not one; it all depends on the individual rifle more than the ammo. FN recommends shooting one round and opening the port one click and repeat the operation until the rifle stops cycling. At that point close the port back two clicks. This old method is still the best and most often ensures reliable operation with most types of ammunition.

[-hanko]

My buddy has got an L1A1 Sporter can you use 7.62x51 NATO out of an FAL ? It seems to be cheaper ammo compared to .308 Im told .308 heats up faster

As has been posted, the weapon was designed for the 7.62x51 since FN was marketing the weapon to the military, all over the world.

It is cheaper since you can sometimes find it as military surplus. I doubt you could see any difference in the two as to barrel heating.

You can definitely shoot heavier or lighter bullets than the original spec 150gr. Follow the info about setting the gas regulator with each new batch of ammo you shoot...that helps to keep the gun from beating itself to death or failing to cycle.