Pre-Ban Springfield Armory Israeli SAR-48 Match 7.62×51 21” Semi Auto Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,924.99
LSB#: WY240723KM024
Make: Imbel, Springfield Armory
Model: SAR-48 Heavy Barrel Match Model
Serial Number: SA-4172
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: 7.62 NATO
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Short Stroke Piston Operated, Detachable Magazine Fed.
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked “SPRINGFIELD ARMORY, GENESEO, IL, USA”. The right side of the magazine well is marked with Springfield Armory’s logo and “1005-SA-48-MATCH”. The left side of the receiver is marked “S.A.R.-48 7,62mm SA-4172”. Under the receiver and forward of the magazine well is marked “IMBEL ITAJUBA BRAZIL”. There are various Israeli markings throughout.
Barrel Length: 21”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable iron post within two protective ears. The rear sight is an adjustable sliding aperture.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a three piece wood/polymer set with a open top ribbed wooden handguard, black polymer pistol grip, and dropped comb stock with steel buttplate. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 14.25″ 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.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20 round metric pattern steel magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Black, Parkerized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is light gray and the rifling is semi-sharp. There is light erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 7/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. There is spots of light thinning, scratches, and small nicks throughout. There are wear marks in the magwell and on the charging channel. The charging handle has heavy thinning and wear. There is oxidized copper fouling around the gas block. 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. The action is smooth and the trigger pull is heavy but consistent.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Cotton sling, one magazine.
Our Assessment: The Springfield Armory SAR-48 Match is a semi-automatic rifle modeled after the famed FN FAL, specifically in the “metric” pattern used by Israel. The SAR-48 is known for its excellent craftsmanship and performance, having been manufactured in Brazil by Imbel (Indústria de Material Bélico do Brasil) and imported into the United States by Springfield Armory during the pre-ban era. This particular model, the Match variant, was designed to offer superior accuracy and shooting performance, making it popular with enthusiasts who appreciate the FN FAL’s legendary durability and the precision enhancements of a competition rifle. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester), the SAR-48 Match delivers powerful and reliable performance, making it suitable for both sporting and defensive uses. The rifle’s gas-operated, short-stroke piston system provides a highly reliable action, even under adverse conditions such as dust and dirt, which is a hallmark of the FN FAL design. The gas system is adjustable, allowing shooters to tune it for various ammunition types and environmental conditions, ensuring smooth cycling and reliable operation. The Match version of the SAR-48 features a heavier barrel compared to the standard SAR-48 models, which enhances accuracy and stability, especially during prolonged firing sessions. This heavy barrel helps reduce barrel flex and improve shot grouping, making it a popular choice for target shooters and those looking for enhanced accuracy in a semi-automatic platform. Additionally, the rifle includes a flash suppressor, which reduces muzzle flash and helps maintain shooter visibility in low-light conditions.
Overall, the Springfield Armory SAR-48 Match is a robust, reliable, and accurate semi-automatic rifle that combines the battle-proven FN FAL design with enhancements aimed at improving precision shooting. Its heavy barrel, adjustable gas system, and high-quality construction make it a standout choice for those looking for a reliable 7.62x51mm NATO rifle with competition-level accuracy. -R.E.
