Pacific Armament Brazilian Imbel C3A FN-FAL 7.62 NATO 20” Semi Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,131.00
LSB#: LSB250723CA042
Make: Imbel, Itajuba Brazil
Model: C3A
Serial Number: PAC12207
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: 7.62 NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Short Stroke Gas Operated, Magazine Fed
Markings: The right side of the mag-well is marked, “PAC12207” and the receiver is marked with an Imbel logo and, “Receiver made by IMBEL. Itajuba Brazil / PACIFIC ARMAMENT CORPORATION. MODESTO, CA USA”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “Fz SA 7.62 – C3A”. The inside of the magwell is marked, “2002”.
Barrel Length: 20”. 22” with muzzle device.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable iron post within two protective ears. The rear sight is a sliding aperture.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The buttstock is synthetic with a sling ring and a rubber buttpad. The pistol grip is synthetic. The handguard is synthetic with vents. There are light handling marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14 1/” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock set rates in about Excellent overall condition. There is a free swiveling sling ring banded around the barrel in front of the gas block.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None.
Type of Finish: Black enamel, Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition:The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There is light handling wear throughout. The action has only minor wear consistent with light use. The screw heads are sharp and the pins unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Note: This rifle has a three position selector that will cause hammer follow if used, which is normal for Imbel rifles. The gas system is adjustable and there is a gas cutoff on the front.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Built by Imbel at Itajubá—the same state arsenal that supplied licensed FALs to militaries worldwide—this PAC-import C3A gives you the real-deal, metric-pattern experience in a trim, eminently practical package. The short-stroke gas system with adjustable regulator, protected post front and sliding aperture rear sights, and tough synthetic furniture are exactly what make the FAL such a forgiving, soft-shooting .308/7.62 NATO. Imbel’s receivers and factory finishes have an excellent reputation for durability, and the PAC Modesto import marks are a nice indicator you’re looking at a quality build rather than a rough kit gun.
Condition is strong throughout: about 97% finish, crisp markings, and a bright, sharp bore this writer rates 9/10. Controls are positive, the three-position selector is correct to the pattern (semi-auto operation as configured), and the gas cutoff and free-swiveling front sling ring add practical utility. For the buyer who wants a proper Imbel—equally at home as a capable range rifle or as a clean example of one of the best FAL manufacturers—this C3A checks the right boxes. Add your preferred metric magazines and quality 7.62 NATO, and you’ve got a classic that lives up to the “Right Arm of the Free World” reputation. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
