FN FNAR
FN Herstal · Sniper Rifle · Discontinued · 2008
Also known as: FN Auto Rifle, FNAR, FN FNAR Standard, FN FNAR Heavy
Overview
The FN FNAR (FN Auto Rifle) is a semi-automatic precision rifle chambered in .308 Winchester, produced by FN America from 2008 to 2019. Based on the proven BAR action system, the FNAR was designed as a civilian and law enforcement precision rifle capable of guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy out of the box. The rifle features a cold hammer-forged, MIL-SPEC fluted barrel with a hard-chromed bore and target crown, paired with a two-stage non-adjustable trigger. The gas-operated rotating bolt action derived from the BAR sporting rifle platform gives the FNAR a proven operating mechanism with a reputation for reliability. The synthetic stock features an adjustable comb for proper cheek weld, and the aluminum alloy receiver is fitted with a full-length Picatinny rail for optics mounting. Available in Standard, Heavy, and Competition configurations, the FNAR offered shooters an alternative to AR-pattern .308 rifles with its unique BAR-derived action.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3690 g (130.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4200 g (148.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1054 mm (41.50") |
| Barrel Length | 508 mm (20.00") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Rotating Bolt |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 22 N (4.9 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 850 m/s (2789 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 3429 J (2529 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 800 m (875 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3700 m (4046 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 305 mm (12.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Cold Hammer Forged Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 7.62x51mm NATO · primary · 7.62x51mm NATO — also known as .308 Winchester, 7.62mm NATO, 7.62x51mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Free Floating Barrel, Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Fluted Barrel, Picatinny Rail, Adjustable Cheek Rest, Target Crown, Match Grade Barrel
Variants
- FNAR Standard — Standard
- FNAR Heavy — Heavy Barrel
- FNAR Competition — Competition
Production
Production years: 2008-2019
Produced by FN America in Columbia, SC. Discontinued due to market competition from modular AR-10 platforms.
Origin
Country of origin: Belgium
Discontinued: 2019
Notes
The FN FNAR was discontinued in 2019 as FN shifted focus toward more modular AR-10-style platforms. The rifle was manufactured at FN's Columbia, South Carolina facility. The Standard model featured a 20-inch barrel weighing 8.125 lbs, while the Heavy variant with its thicker profile weighed approximately 9.25 lbs. The Competition model added a match-grade trigger and additional ergonomic features. The FNAR uses proprietary FN DBM magazines in 10 or 20-round capacities. Despite discontinuation, the rifle maintains a loyal following on the secondary market due to its unique action and reliable accuracy.
Background
The FNAR's operating system traces its lineage to John Browning's original BAR action design, making it one of the few modern semi-automatic precision rifles not based on the AR-10/AR-15 platform. FN guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy from the factory.