FAL Vs. G3 variants

[45R]

Just doing some research here for those who have owned both the FAL and G3 which rifle system. What are the pros and cons of each?

Weight
Reliabilty
Maintenance
Cost
Accuracy
Aftermarket Goodies

Hehe Caliber is not an issue here

 

[iamkris]

Lots of these FAL vs G3 threads. Here was my answer to one just a few days ago.

I have owned a HK G3 (Century c91 that was a perfect build...not typical Century crap) and a DSA STG 58A. I still own the FAL and sold the G3...here's why:

* Both are accurate for a MBR (2-3 MOA) ... HK fans will sy that their rifle is more accurate but I can find equal number of accurate / inaccurate G3's and FALs from people I know
* Both are 100% reliable (with early break in hiccups on both)
* Both have similar recoil but impulse is different

FAL wins on the following
* FAL has overall superior ergonomics for me
* FAL has bolt open (G3 does not)
* Couldn't reach either selector without changing grip...can fix that on FAL with L1A1 selector
* FAL mag release is easier to manipulate (assuming no paddle release on G3, if so then equal)
* FAL charging handle is in appropriate place (what idiot puts the charging handle near the muzzle of a rifle?)
* FAL breaks down/easier to clean and maintain eaiser than G3
* FAL has more simple locking mechanism
* FAL is "prettier" (subjective)
* FAL has adjustable gas system (but I personally don't see that as a big deal)

Here's where G3 wins
* Feels slightly more balanced/handy (subjective)
* G3 mags are better designed and snap in with more authority

That's it...usiing those criteria, FAL wins hands down for me. YMMV

That said, I will eventually buy a PTR91 (the only decent HK clone...save maybe Ohio Rapid Fire build). I've actually been in love with the HK91 since I was a kid...warts and all.

On your specific areas:
Weight -- about the same
Reliabilty -- HK fans say their system is more reliable. FAL was choice for 90+ countries and piston op gas systems are uber reliable. A wash in my opinion.
Maintenance -- As I said above, I think the FAL system is the easiest system I've ever seen to break down and take apart. WAY better than the G3 with the clunky pins, removal of the buttstock, trigger pack sitting on a shelf that as to be JUST so.
Cost -- About the same -- Century builds of either ab out $500, PTR91 to ORF / DSA about $700-900, the real deal about the same
Accuracy -- about the same 2-3 MOA. You can find examples of either that are better and are worse.
Aftermarket Goodies -- FAL hands down. Easy to build (not as easy as an AR) and lots of companies supply aftermarket stuff for them...not so many for the G3

 

[natedog]

Haven't owned either, but this is what I've gathered from here, the net, and gun rags:

Weight: G3 runs at 4.5 Kgs. The FAL is trickier because there are so many different variants, but http://world.guns.ru claims 4.45 kgs.

Reliability: Both are supposedly very, very reliable- IE, drag through the dirt, AK reliable.

Maintenence: Both can field strip into major components easily

Cost: A real HK-91 will be +$2000. Clones run from $400 to $900. A DSARMS standard FAL (built from an original parts kit) will be about $900

Accuracy: Battle-rifle accuracy. 3-4 MOA or better.

Aftermarket goodies: HK-91 has tons of scope mounts, but so does the FAL. You can get the FAL with rails and such.

From discussions I've read here, the FAL is generally deemed to be more ergonomic. A better safety location, ambidextrious (sp?) magazine release and bolt release. The G-3 doesn't have a last shot bolt hold open, and when you recock it you have to overcome the roller-locking mechanism and the spring. Also, the charging handle is way out front. Run a search for tons of discussions on this.