French Trials FN CAL: Adding Rifle Grenade Capability

Published on September 10, 2025
Duration: 1:03

This guide details the rifle grenade capability of the French Trials FN CAL variant, as explained by Ian McCollum. It covers the barrel lugs, adjustable range stop, integrated sights, and the modified 25-round magazine. The video highlights specific mechanical adaptations for grenade launching, demonstrating a deep dive into this historical firearm variant.

Quick Summary

The French Trials FN CAL variant was equipped for rifle grenade launching via barrel lugs and an adjustable range stop, with integrated folding sights. It also featured a modified 25-round magazine and a 4-position selector switch (Safe, Semi, 3-round burst, Full Auto). This system demonstrated advanced military firearm development for its time.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to French Trials FN CAL
  2. 00:09Rifle Grenade Capability Explained
  3. 00:28Grenade Launching Sights Detail
  4. 00:44Modified 25-Round Magazine

Frequently Asked Questions

What modifications allowed the FN CAL to launch rifle grenades?

The FN CAL French Trials variant was modified with a series of lugs on the barrel and an adjustable rear stop. This system allowed for precise range settings for rifle grenades, a feature later seen on the FAMAS and MAS-49/56.

How did the FN CAL's grenade launching sights work?

The FN CAL featured integrated, folding grenade launching sights with multiple aiming points. These sights could be deployed for use and folded down along the rifle's side for a more compact profile when not in use.

What is unique about the FN CAL's 25-round magazine?

The 25-round magazine for this FN CAL variant was a modification. It started as a 20-round magazine with a welded extension to increase capacity and included a clear viewing window to monitor the remaining rounds.

What firing modes does the FN CAL selector switch offer?

The FN CAL French Trials variant is equipped with a 4-position selector switch, offering Safe, Semi-automatic fire, 3-round burst capability, and Full Auto fire.

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