DS Arms OSW

DS Arms, Inc. · Battle Rifle · In Production · 2003

Also known as: DSA OSW, Operations Specialist Weapon, SA58 OSW

Overview

The DS Arms OSW (Operations Specialist Weapon) is a compact carbine version of the SA58 FAL, built and manufactured by DS Arms of Barrington, Illinois in 7.62x51mm NATO. It pairs a 12-inch medium-contour, chrome-lined barrel with a PARA-pattern side-folding stock, producing one of the shortest fielded FAL configurations for close-quarters and vehicle-borne use. Like the rest of the SA58 line, the OSW retains the FAL's tilting-bolt short-stroke gas action with an adjustable gas regulator, fabricated entirely from US-made parts. The shortened barrel and folding stock trade some muzzle velocity and sight radius for dramatically improved maneuverability.

Specifications

Barrel Length305 mm (12.01")
Action TypeGas Operated Short Stroke
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Magazine Capacity20 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Effective Range400 m (437 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist254 mm (10.00")
Number of Grooves4
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialSteel
FinishPhosphate

Calibers

Features

Base model

Dsa-Sa58

Service history

Operators

Production

Production years: 2003-present

Niche compact FAL configuration; production volumes not publicly published.

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Designer: Dieudonne Saive (original FN FAL design)

Notes

The OSW name stands for 'Operations Specialist Weapon.' The 12-inch barrel makes it a short-barreled rifle (SBR) under US law, requiring NFA registration. Sold both as a complete rifle and as a barrel assembly. Weight and overall length not published by the manufacturer; folded length unknown.

Background

The OSW is essentially a modern revival of the rare 'Congo' and para-trooper FAL carbines, chopping the legendary battle rifle down to a 12-inch barrel and folding stock for operators who needed full 7.62 NATO punch in a package short enough to clear a vehicle door.