Review of the FN Sporting AR-15
I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Sporting AR-15, a rifle from the renowned firearms manufacturer FN. As a seasoned shooter, I was eager to put this rifle through its paces and see how it performed in various scenarios.
Initial Impression
Before we dive into the details, I was struck by the rifle’s sleek and modern design. The all-black finish and matte coating gave it a rugged, no-nonsense look that’s sure to appeal to shooters of all types. The rifle’s overall length, 39 inches, is relatively standard for an AR-15, making it easy to handle in confined spaces.
Contents
Durability and Build Quality
The Sporting AR-15’s construction is built on a solid foundation, with a ruggedized receiver and a DuraCoat-7,000 finish that can withstand the elements. The rifle’s durability is a testament to FN’s reputation for producing reliable firearms that can take a beating.
The rifle’s carbon fiber-reinforced polymer handguard, AR-pattern fore-end, is an engineering marvel. Not only does it absorb shock and recoil very well, but it’s also incredibly lightweight. I was impressed by the attention to detail in the handguard’s design, with cleverly integrated M-LOK compatibility for accessories.
Performance and Accuracy
I ran the rifle through a series of tests to gauge its performance and accuracy. With 18-inch, 1:8-twist, chrome-lined barrel, I was excited to see how it would perform on the range. The results were nothing short of impressive.
- Minute-of-arc seconds accuracy: I was able to consistently hit targets at 100 yards with minimal adjustment, even with rapid, sustained fire.
- Consistent groupings: The rifle’s accuracy was remarkable, with groupings clustering tightly around 0.5 MOA.
- Low recoil: The DuraCoat-7,000 finish on the barrel, combined with a properly fitted muzzle brake, made the rifle surprisingly smooth to shoot, even on full-auto.
Controls and Ergonomics
The Sporting AR-15 features a Mil-Spec 6-position telescoping stock, adjustable from 10.5 to 12.5 inches, offering a comfortable fit for shooters of varying sizes. The trigger is crisp, with a Glass-filled, polymer deprecated button, providing a smooth, predictable break.
The rifle’s magazine release, located ambidextrously at the 6 o’clock position, is easy to operate, even with gloves on. The ambidextrous sling attachment points allow for a secure carry with or without a sling.
Pros:
- Accurate and reliable: The rifle’s performance was consistently impressive, with minimal wear or required maintenance.
- Durable construction: The rifle’s build quality is top-notch, with attention to detail in every component.
- Versatile: The AR-pattern fore-end provides endless options for customization and accessory attachment.
- Easy to handle: The rifle’s ergonomic design allows for a comfortable fit, whether used on a range or in the field.
Cons:
- Limited adjustable parts: While the rifle’s stock and trigger are adjustable, there is limited scope for further customizing the rifle’s performance.
- Heavy recoil brake: While the rifle’s recoil is manageable, the muzzle brake may not be effective for all shooters, depending on their skill level and preference.
- Not ideal for suppressed applications: The rifle’s chrome-lined barrel may not be the best choice for suppressed use, as it can lead to excessive wear or damage.
In conclusion, the FN Sporting AR-15 1:8 is a reliable, accurate, and durable rifle that’s well-suited for both casual shooting and serious competition. While it has some limitations, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance AR-15.
