Firearm Maintenance Series: FN FAL - Part 1: Disassembly

Published on May 6, 2014
Duration: 2:42

This guide details the field stripping process for the FN FAL rifle, as demonstrated by a Brownells expert. It covers the essential steps for disassembly, including removing the gas system, opening the action, separating the bolt carrier, and finally splitting the receivers. The instruction emphasizes safety protocols throughout the procedure.

Quick Summary

The FN FAL field stripping process begins with a mandatory safety check: remove the magazine and inspect the chamber to ensure the rifle is unloaded. Next, disassemble the gas system by depressing the detent and rotating the gas plug. Open the action, remove the top cover, then the bolt carrier assembly. Separate the bolt from the carrier, and finally, remove the front pivot pin to split the receivers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and History
  2. 00:29Safety Check
  3. 00:35Gas System Disassembly
  4. 01:04Opening the Action
  5. 01:24Bolt and Carrier Removal
  6. 01:50Receiver Separation

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start the disassembly process for an FN FAL rifle?

Begin by ensuring the rifle is unloaded. Remove the magazine and thoroughly inspect the chamber to confirm it is clear. This safety check is crucial before proceeding with any maintenance or disassembly steps.

What are the key steps for disassembling the gas system on an FN FAL?

To disassemble the gas system, locate the gas plug detent, depress it, and rotate the gas plug 270 degrees counter-clockwise. Then, remove the gas plug, piston, and piston spring from the front of the rifle.

How is the bolt separated from the bolt carrier in an FN FAL?

To separate the bolt from the carrier, push the bolt rearward within the carrier, lift its front end, and then pull it forward. Some FN FAL variants might require depressing the firing pin to facilitate this separation.

What tool is needed to separate the upper and lower receivers of an FN FAL?

Separating the upper and lower receivers requires removing the front pivot pin. A flathead screwdriver is used to unscrew the pin from the right side while holding the left side steady, completing the basic field strip.

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