Pre-Ban FN-FAL Match Type III .308 Win 18.5” Barrel Semi Auto Battle Rifle
SOLD FOR: $2,827.00
LSB#: LSB250809NF005
Make: Fabrique Nationale Herstal, Belgium. Imported by Steyr.
Model: Type III FAL Unknown Config
Serial Number: 2502116
Year of Manufacture: Pre-1989
Caliber: .308 / 7.62 NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Tilting-Lock Short Stroke Piston Operated, Detachable Magazine Fed.
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked, “FABRIQUE NATIONALE HERSTAL / MADE IN BELGIUM / STEYR SECAUCUS N.J. / 2502116”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “.308 MATCH”. There is a small Belgian tower proof at the front of the receiver. The forend is marked, “MA73”.
Barrel Length: 18.5”, 20” w/ muzzle device.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable iron post with two protective ears. The rear sight is an adjustable sliding aperture marked out to 6.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a three piece stock set with an Australian clamshell handguard, plastic pistol grip w/ cleaning kit, dropped comb stock with ribbed steel buttplate and sling loop. The LOP measures 14.5″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition. The gas block is adjustable. There is a free swiveling sling ring banded around the barrel in front of the gas block and a ribbed plastic carry handle.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20 round metric pattern steel magazine in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black Enamel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The chrome bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but there is some moderate fouling throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are faint handling/rub marks and small scratches throughout. The action has light wear. The screw heads are sharp and the pins unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good + 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.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Cotton sling, one magazine.
Our Assessment: This pre-ban FN FAL Match rifle is a top-tier example of the legendary “Right Arm of the Free World,” built by Fabrique Nationale Herstal in Belgium and imported by Steyr of Secaucus, New Jersey prior to the 1989 import ban. Factory-marked “.308 MATCH” on the left receiver and bearing the hallmark Type III upper, this rifle showcases FN’s final production iteration of the civilian semi-auto FAL before U.S. import restrictions curtailed their availability. These pre-ban Steyr-imported FN FALs are among the most desirable commercial FAL variants on the market, renowned for their forged receivers, quality control, and direct lineage to the military-issue models issued across NATO nations. Chambered in 7.62 NATO (.308 Winchester), this example features a chrome-lined bore measuring 18.5” (20” with the muzzle device), an adjustable gas block, and classic FAL-style iron sights with a ramped front post and sliding rear aperture. The black enamel finish remains in outstanding condition, with approximately 98% original finish retained, and the bore is bright with sharp rifling, earning a 9/10. The furniture includes an Australian clamshell handguard, ribbed buttplate, and ribbed carry handle, with minor wear consistent with careful handling. The stock set is sturdy and complete, and the mechanics are fully functional. This rifle is complete with a cotton sling and one 20-round metric magazine.
Collectors and shooters alike recognize the FN FAL for its battlefield legacy, modularity, and reliability. True Belgian-made Steyr-import rifles like this one are increasingly rare, especially in such well-preserved condition with original pre-ban configuration. With its iconic profile, excellent bore, and clean finish, this rifle offers both historical significance and functional excellence—a dream piece for any serious collector of Cold War-era battle rifles. -R.E.
