Review of CGW, GPG, project FAL build

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kaiserworks

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Aug 26, 2005
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Just got back from the range with a new build. You can tell by the smile on my face that I was happy with the performance and accuracy of this latest 21st century FAL.
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The Project:
Starting with a GPG 6 groove rifling, 1/12 twist, 21" barrel with no gas port and a DSA upper receiver. The barrel was cut to 14.75" (with FN muzzle device 16.25") and turned down to a short gas system configuration with a new FN gas block from Gunthings. All this work was precisely and masterfully done by Rich at CGW and then parked. Slap on one Kaiserworks lower receiver with YHM rear sight and Magpul M93 stock and an international mix of small parts and lastly matte black gunkote and we're ready to go to the range.
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The business end!
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The Results:
After consuming a 24 ounce coffee on an empty stomach and braving the morning high desert chill, I was ready to begin the tedious one shot at a time then swab barrel break-in. Soon after, I had the shakes under control enough to begin accuracy testing with iron sights. Without going through all the boring details and 240 rounds later, let me edit to this: There are 8" steel pipes hanging from a telephone pole @ 200 yards, I was able hit them 8 out of 15 shots on average (they swing slightly). My shooting partner was able to do much better. We then mounted the optic and had a little operator error, so I really can't do a report on the IOR 3x25 tactical scope at this time but will soon.
Conclusion:
-Those seeking weight savings (complete rifle was 8lbs.) and sleek business look of the short gas system will find that CGW does it right start to finish unlike some large alphabet manufacturers. Attention to detail, reliability and the ability to taylor your build to your exact specifications makes the CGW short gas system conversion a sure bet. Not to mention, turn around time is measured in weeks, NOT months/years like some large alphabet manufacturers.
-I was impressed beyond all expectation with the GPG barrels, they are easily worth twice the price and shoot more like three times the price, forget about other offerings on the market or that milsurp boat anchor. Do yourself a favor and fork over the buck fifty or so, you'll be happy you did.
-Falcon springs made me have to look several times to make sure I wasn't shooting an AR because the recoil was sooooo light. Muzzle climb was minimal and made double taps a breeze on the 50 yard target.
-The Magpul M93 is fast becoming my favorite stock on all rifle platforms, but especially the FAL when coupled with a KW lower. Its just so comfortable and is easily adjusted for any shooting style or shooter size.
-The YHM/BMAS rear sight makes iron sight zeroing a snap, heck, I cannot even remember what it was like on the old style FAL sights to use a screw driver to adjust windage, nor do I want to. Both elevation and windage were easily and precisely adjusted with gloved hands, it just don't get much easier than that.
-The DSA scope mount was rock solid if overly bulky, it also destroys brass as they're ejected making reloading once fired brass an ify proposition. I can't wait to try the new Grenadier Precision version.

Anyway, thats the dope; stay tuned for the future review on the scope!
 
That is DYNO-cool!!

Nice approach - what ammo are you using with the short gas system?
 
I used various ammo types during the initial 200+ round first trip to the range, they included:
NATO spec: Radway Green - British, FN - Portugese contract. Match grade: Hirtenberger 190gr - Austrian, Federal Gold match 168gr.
Civie: Winchester 147gr.
All cycled flawlessly. The handguard is from DSA for short gas systems.
 
Action Pics needed!

KW - pass along some pics of it in action when you can...
 
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