The FAL for British Troop Trials in 1954: X8E1 & X8E2

Published on February 21, 2020
Duration: 13:24

This video details the FN FAL X8E1 and X8E2 rifles used in British troop trials in 1954. It highlights the initial consideration of the FAL in 7.62x51mm NATO and the specific trial configurations, including iron and optical sight variants. The discussion covers design elements like stripper clip guides, forward assists, and selector differences from the later L1A1, as well as crucial sand testing modifications.

Quick Summary

The FN FAL X8E1 and X8E2 rifles were part of British troop trials in 1954, evaluating the FAL for potential adoption. The X8E1 had iron sights, while the X8E2 featured an early optical sight. Crucial design modifications like 'sand cuts' were developed during these trials.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to British FAL Trials
  2. 01:09Trial Orders and Optical Sights
  3. 02:34X8E1 Features and Stripper Clips
  4. 04:46Forward Assist and Carry Handle
  5. 06:07Selector and Magazine Patterns
  6. 07:18X8E2 Optical Sight Configuration
  7. 09:07Sand Testing and Design Evolution
  8. 10:41Final Adoption as L1A1

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the FN FAL X8E1 and X8E2 rifles used for?

The X8E1 and X8E2 were FN FAL rifles purchased by the British government for troop trials in 1954. These trials aimed to evaluate the FAL for potential adoption by the British Army, ultimately influencing the development of the L1A1 SLR.

What was the difference between the X8E1 and X8E2 trial rifles?

The X8E1 variant was configured with standard iron sights, while the X8E2 featured a non-magnifying 1x optical sight. Both were part of the initial 5,000 rifle order for British troop trials.

Why were 'sand cuts' added to the FAL design?

'Sand cuts' are grooves in the bolt carrier and receiver that allow debris to escape. They were developed after British trials showed the FAL action could jam in sandy conditions, significantly improving reliability in deserts.

Did the trial FAL rifles have a forward assist?

Yes, the X8E1 and X8E2 trial rifles included a forward assist feature on the charging handle. However, testing revealed that manually cycling the charging handle was more effective for clearing malfunctions, leading to its removal in the final L1A1 design.

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