FN Releases Limited Production of SCAR 17s DMR in 6.5 Creedmoor
FN Releases Limited Production of SCAR 17s DMR in 6.5 Creedmoor
(September 12, 2023 – McLean, VA) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the release of a limited production of the FN SCAR® 17S Designated Marksman Rifle, or DMR, chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. The mid-range designated marksman configuration brings the 6.5CM caliber to the SCAR 17S platform for the first time and delivers an impressive, multi-purpose rifle enhanced to take advantage of the inherent accuracy and multi-role capability of the SCAR platform. The SCAR 17S in the DMR configuration features premium upgrades, including the precision buttstock assembly and Geissele 2-stage trigger that SCAR 20S owners rely on for surgical accuracy.
“The SCAR is the most tested rifle platform that FN has ever developed. It was designed to be lightweight, rugged, accurate and modular to give the user a rifle platform that could be configured to their needs,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales for FN America, LLC. “This new and limited-time build demonstrates the modularity of the SCAR design by combining features of the SCAR 17S heavy carbine and the SCAR 20S precision rifle to create a one-of-a-kind, mid-range designated marksman rifle.”
The FN SCAR 17S DMR 6.5CM is upgraded from the standard carbine configuration with the addition of the SSR Rear Stock and Geissele SuperSCAR two-stage trigger. These upgrades, combined with match-grade ammunition and optics, enable greater precision for long range target engagements. The 16.25-inch 6.5 Creedmoor barrel is cold hammer-forged and chrome-lined for extreme durability and enduring accuracy, and features a 1:8-in twist, standard carbine profile and muzzle device. With a lighter weight barrel, the DMR handles swiftly and transitions to targets quickly, just like the SCAR 17S heavy carbine chambered in 7.62×51 NATO.
The monolithic aluminum receiver features MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails to mount optics and accessories, as well as the SCAR-signature flip-up front and rear adjustable iron sights. The receiver is equipped with dual, non-reciprocating charging handles located on both sides of the rifle that are user-configurable for position and remain locked forward during fire.
Specifications:
– Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
– Capacity: 10- or 20-rds; Ships with (1) 10-round SCAR-H Magazine
– Weight: 9.5 pounds
– Length: 36.8-38.6 inches
– Barrel: 16.25 inches; Cold Hammer-forged, Chrome-lined; 1:8 twist
– Operation: Short Stroke Gas Piston; Non-reciprocating Charging Handles
– Finish: Black or Flat Dark Earth (FDE)
– Sights: MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny Rail; Flip-up Iron Sights
The legendary FN SCAR series takes root in its battle-proven lineage, adapted from USSOCOM’s newest battle rifle since the M4 entered service in the 1990’s. The benchmark of reliability and versatility with its four variants, the FN SCAR 15P, SCAR 16S, SCAR 17S and SCAR 20S are capable of consistent accuracy from their cold hammer-forged and chrome-lined barrels and one-piece forged aluminum receiver, low-flash gas regulator and fast-handling characteristics uncommon in similar rifle platforms.
Quiet Down with FN’s New Rimfire Suppressor – The Catch 22 Ti
Quiet Down with FN’s New Rimfire Suppressor – The Catch 22 Ti
(September 7, 2023 – McLean, VA) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the release of the FN Catch 22™Ti, the company’s first rimfire suppressor and second installment in its suppressor lineup following the FN Rush™ 9Ti released in 2022. The rimfire Catch 22 Ti is a lightweight, durable and quiet suppressor that has been optimized for versatility, spinning up to all suppressor-ready rimfires like the FN 502 Tactical. Designed for unmatched reliability, the Catch 22 Ti turns a normal day on range into an incredibly quiet blast.
“With the successful release of the 9mm Rush 9Ti last year, tackling the rimfire category is the next logical step as we expand our suppressor lineup and develop accessories that enhance our suppressor-ready firearms,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “The FN Catch 22 Ti is an extremely small and tough rimfire suppressor with very effective sound reduction and impressive reliability given the wide variety of .22 ammunition. While it delivers all these benefits to shooters in a compact and lightweight package, it’s also a blast when paired with an FN 502 Tactical.”
Reliability, especially when paired with the FN 502 Tactical, was a key performance metric in the development of the suppressor given the wide variability that is common with .22 ammunition. The Catch 22 Ti was subjected to an extremely rigorous endurance testing paired with the FN 502 Tactical and other .22-caliber firearms along with a variety of common rimfire ammunition loads to ensure functional reliability and platform adaptability would rise above the current products in market.
“During testing, FN ran the FN 502 Tactical suppressed with the FN Catch 22Ti to very high round counts, stopping only to perform routine cleaning and lubrication along the way,” said John Ryan, Director of Product Management for FN America, LLC. “The combination ran flawlessly from start to finish with zero malfunctions, which speaks volumes about the robust design of the Catch 22.”
Considering the effects of environmental elements and ammunition velocity, the pairing of the FN 502 Tactical with the Catch 22 Ti produces a significantly reduced sound signature that dramatically improves the shooting experience and is especially notable when paired with supersonic ammunition. The usual crack that is heard during unsuppressed fire is all but eliminated and the loudest sound that can be heard is the impact on steel.
“While we don’t publish decibel reduction ratings for our suppressors due to the variability in sound capture methods, meters and ammunition types, multiple sound tests prove the FN Catch 22 Ti is extremely effective in reducing the report of .22LR and other rimfire loads,” said Rich Spalla, Suppressors Product Manager for FN America, LLC. “When we compare Catch 22 Ti head-to-head with all other rimfire suppressors, sound reduction performance puts the newest FN suppressor at the top of its class, suppressing the signature high-pitched crack.”
Weighing in at just approximately 5 ounces and 5.25-inches in length, the titanium-hybrid construction of the Catch 22 Ti provides the perfect balance to the FN 502 Tactical. Similar to the Rush 9Ti, the Catch 22 Ti features a titanium tube with a robust Cerkote™ coating rated for high temperatures. The baffle stack is comprised of a stainless-steel blast baffle tempered for heat resistance and an aircraft-grade aluminum baffle stack for the ultimate strength to weight ratio. The included tool enables quick removal of the end cap and baffle stack, making cleaning and maintenance fast and simple.
“Serviceability is critical with rimfire suppressors and .22 rimfire ammunition is notorious for producing a lot of fouling and build-up. We wanted to ensure that owners could easily disassemble their Catch 22 Ti to thoroughly clean each component,” added John Ryan, Director of Product Management. “The included disassembly tool makes maintenance fast and simple – using the tool, unscrew the end cap and slide the entire baffle stack out.”
The slim 1.1-inch tube clears the suppressor-height sights easily on the FN 502 Tactical and mounts securely to any platform via the 1/2×28-inch threads and is rated for rimfire firearms chambered in .22LR, .22 Mag, .22 WMR and .17 HMR.
Specifications:
• Caliber Rating: .22LR, .22 Mag, .22 WMR and .17 HMR.
• Overall Length: 5.25 inches
• Tube Diameter: 1.12 inches
• Weight: ≈5 ounces
• Mount: 1/2×28” TPI
• Included end cap/front cap assembly tool
• Titanium tube, high-heat stainless steel blast baffle, aircraft-grade aluminum baffle stack
• Available in Flat Dark Earth or Black HT Cerakote™
• Limited lifetime warranty
Get the FN 5.7 Firearms You’ve Been Waiting For
Get the FN 5.7 Firearms You’ve Been Waiting For
FN Offers Up to $175 Cash Back Rebate on Five-seveN MRD Pistols and PS90 Carbines
(September 6, 2023 – McLean, VA) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce new rebate offers on qualifying purchases of its 5.7x28mm-chambered firearms. Customers who purchase an FN Five-seveN MRD pistol during the promotional period are eligible to redeem their purchase for $125.00 cash back. Customers who purchase the FN PS90 carbine are eligible for $175.00 cash back. The promotion begins September 1 and ends October 31, 2023.
“As the FN 5.7x28mm popularity grows, further solidifying its foothold as a viable caliber for personal defense and more, we are excited for the opportunity to put an FN Five-seveN MRD pistol or PS90 carbine into the hands of users who may have wanted one for years or are brand new to the caliber,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “The rebate offers on these two mainstay FN products coming at the perfect time for enthusiasts to add to their collection and put a little extra cash in their pockets for ammunition, magazines and other accessories.”
The FN Five-seveN MRD redefines handgun accuracy with a factory-milled slide, accepting most miniature red dot optics, enhanced frame ergonomics and improved controls. The internal, single-action-only hammer produces a clean and consistent trigger pull that breaks at approximately 6 pounds, with minimal take-up and a short reset. Its 4.8-inch cold hammer-forged barrel, combined with the inherent benefits of the design and high velocity bottleneck cartridge, produces a flat-shooting pistol with extremely low felt-recoil. Users can stay on target with accuracy and precision at extended ranges, unmatched by any other semi-auto handguns.
The FN PS90 utilizes blowback operation and fires from a closed bolt for greater accuracy and reliability. The 16-inch cold hammer-forged MIL-SPEC barrel is equipped with an integrated muzzle brake to reduce the already negligible recoil generated from the 5.7 cartridge. Dual magazine latches, cocking handles and an innovative synthetic thumbhole stock with a molded-in sling attachment point help make the FN PS90 fully ambidextrous.
FN is the originator of the 5.7x28mm cartridge and the firearms that were chambered in that caliber. Developed in the 1980s by FN, the 5.7x28mm cartridge combines the benefits of a rifle cartridge – high velocity and exceptional accuracy – with the lightweight and compact size of a pistol cartridge and often outperforms conventional pistol calibers in those areas. Following its standardization by NATO in 2021, the caliber experienced a renaissance and is more popular than ever with new loads and chamberings being offered.
To qualify for these offers, purchases must be made between September 1 and October 31, 2023, and redeemed online by November 30, 2023. Click here to learn more about the FN Five-seveN Rebate and review the program’s full terms and conditions.
New FN Owners Get Cash Back and Training with Summer Sizzle Rebate
New FN Owners Get Cash Back and Training with Summer Sizzle Rebate
For a Limited Time, Get Up to $100 Cash Back and Free Virtual Pistol Training on Purchases of New FN 509 Pistols
(McLean, VA – August 29, 2023) There is no better time than the present to be in the market for a new FN pistol. Whether you are a new user just getting started or an experienced buyer, there is something for everyone in FN’s Summer Sizzle Rebate. Now through September 30th, FN America, LLC is offering rebates valued up to $220 for purchases of new FN 509 pistols as a way to provide customers with the tools and resources needed to get on the range, carry or train with their new FN pistol. The FN 509 Summer Sizzle Rebate gives consumers cash back on 50 different pistols across the FN 509 line-up, along with three free hours of virtual pistol training classes from Sheepdog Response, featuring Tim Kennedy, that prepare students on everything from the basics of firearm safety to advanced tactics.
All qualifying purchases of FN 509 pistols are eligible to receive three virtual pistol training classes valued at $120.00 along with a consumer rebate of up to $100.00 depending on the model purchased. FN 509 Standard, optics-ready MRD model or MRD-LE qualify for a $75.00 consumer rebate while a purchase of an FN 509 Edge Series™ or Tactical model qualifies for $100.00 consumer rebate.
To offer these virtual training classes, FN has partnered with Sheepdog Response, a premier training organization that focuses on providing individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively in high-stress situations. This exclusive pistol training bundle streams online and features firearms expert, and special forces operator, Tim Kennedy. It includes Virtual Pistol Training Courses 1, 2, and 3, covering the fundamentals of marksmanship, practical drills, techniques, equipment, and real-world defensive pistol tactics to advance personal protection training for both new and advanced users.
The FN 509 series was introduced in 2017 and has expanded to more than 50 stocking models, including compact, midsize, MRD-LE models for law enforcement, and the Edge Series, with factory upgrades unmatched by any other striker fired pistol. Options for concealed carry, duty pistols with enhanced triggers, extended capacity and FN’s Low-Profile Optics Mounting System that quickly mounts more red-dot dots than any other pistol, ensure there’s a model that’s a perfect fit for you. Click here to use the FN 509 Selector to see which FN 509 model fits best, and see the FN dealer locator to find the closest FN retailer.
To qualify for these offers, purchases must be made between July 17 and September 30, 2023, and redeemed online by October 31, 2023. Click here to learn more about the FN Summer Sizzle Rebate and review the program’s full terms and conditions.
FN Announces Expansion of .22LR Pistol Offerings with New MRD Model
FN Announces Expansion of .22LR Pistol Offerings with New MRD Model
(McLean, VA – August 10, 2023) Following the extremely successful launch of the optics-ready FN 502 Tactical, FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the expansion of its .22LR offerings with the all-new FN 502 MRD. The company released its first rimfire in 2021, the FN 502 Tactical, setting the bar high for future rimfire releases. However, none can best the fact that the FN 502 is the first purpose-built .22LR pistol designed for high round count training sessions while delivering maximum fun on the range.
“When we first started the development of the FN 502 platform, our goal was to up the ante for quality and versatility in a new rimfire pistol, applying our expertise in factory milled optics-ready slides, suppressor-ready barrels, and professional-quality triggers, some of the most sought after benefits in the FN 509 and FNX pistol product lines. We truly set a high bar for the industry,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales for FN America, LLC. “The MRD model is the natural evolution of the FN 502 platform, allowing users to add a red dot, and make the most of the exceptional trigger. The MRD model offers another high-performance .22LR pistol for our customer base who value affordable quality in their rimfire pistols.”
The FN 502 MRD shares the same optics mounting system as the Tactical model that was inspired by the company’s patented Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System. Compatible with multiple micro red dot optics, users are able to swap out the MRD insert plates with integrated sights depending on their optic of choice, and be ready for a fun-filled range day within minutes.
The hammer-fired FN 502, with its best-in-class single-action trigger, performs like a robust-style target pistol, delivering fast, accurate rounds on target with more versatility than any other rimfire on the market. It offers superior ergonomics inspired by the grip profile of the FN 509 family of pistols and delivers the perfect balance between slide and frame along with fully ambidextrous controls.
Designed for maximum fun, FN’s hammer-fired .22 LR delivers more accuracy and versatility than any other rimfire handgun. Mounting a favorite red dot optic and cycling a wide range of .22 LR ammo makes a low-cost range day a high-end experience.
The FN 502 MRD ships with two 10-round flush-fit magazines along with the necessary plates to mount compatible micro red dot optics. Due to its similarity in muzzle and trigger guard dimensions to the FN 509, the FN 502 MRD will fit in most FN 509 holsters.
FN Extends Line of Big Bore Pistols with New MRD Models
FN Extends Line of Big Bore Pistols with New MRD Models
The Optics-Ready FN 510 and 545 MRD Offer Pinpoint Control and Accuracy
(McLean, VA – August 08, 2023) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the release of the striker-fired FN 510 MRD and 545 MRD optics-ready big bore pistols. With dimensions just slightly larger than an FN 509, these two big bore pistols are ideal for users who want to carry with a lot more stopping power. The pistols feature 15+1 rounds of 10mm or .45ACP at the ready, a target-grade 6-pound trigger pull with crisp break, and the company’s patented optics mount that enables enhanced accuracy, making them the perfect tool for personal and home defense. Harness the stopping power of these big bore calibers and be ready to face any situation that may come.
“Following the overwhelmingly positive response to the FN 510 and 545 Tactical, which released in January, we received customer feedback requesting models in these calibers with flush-fit barrels, day sights and magazines that were more carry-friendly, as well as accessible in states that restrict threaded barrels or capacity,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “These MRD models, following the successful formula of the FN 509 MRD models, feature our patented optics mounting technology in a 15-round grip frame optimized for accuracy and shootability.”
The FN 510 and 545 MRD feature a flush-fit, 4.1-inch barrel housed within a machined steel slide with front and rear cocking serrations for ease of manipulation. The barrels are cold hammer-forged with a recessed target crown to extend accuracy and a polished feed ramp to ensure reliable feeding of the majority of commercially available loads in both 10mm and .45ACP.
The MRD slide is equipped with FN’s patented Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System that accepts all major optics footprints and enables consumers to direct-mount nearly any optic in minutes with the included hardware while a set of fully adjustable blacked-out iron sights co-witness with most optics and are to provide a clear sight picture, allowing the user the focus on the red dot of the optic.
The impressive ergonomics and contouring of the 15-round grip frame deliver the perfect balance to the slide. The included backstraps can be installed to adjust the fit in the user’s hand to deliver a natural point of aim and dampen felt recoil, especially in 10mm. Coupled with the three distinct grip textures that all play a role in anchoring the pistol to the hand, the FN 510 and 545 MRD are extremely controllable and shootable big bore pistols.
FN 510 and 545 MRD Specifications:
– Chambered in 10mm Auto or .45 ACP
– 4.1-inch flush-fit cold hammer-forged barrel for states that restrict threaded barrels; compatible with FN 510 or 545 Tactical barrels
– 15-round standard capacity with option for 10-round capacity for restricted states; compatible with FN 510 and 545 Tactical extended magazines
– FN Low-Profile Optics-Mounting System with co-witness, blacked-out iron sights
– Target-grade trigger with approximately 6-pound break
– Ambidextrous controls
Turn up the Heat with FN’s Summer Rebate
Turn up the Heat with FN’s Summer Sizzle Rebate
Up to $100 Cash Back Rebate PLUS Free Virtual Pistol Training Valued at $120 on Qualifying Purchases of FN 509 Pistols
(McLean, VA – July 17, 2023) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the launch of its Summer Sizzle rebate program for 50 skus of new FN 509 pistols. Available through September 30, 2023, the two-tiered program has a total value of up to $220.00 and features a consumer rebate along with free virtual pistol training classes through Sheepdog Response.
All qualifying purchases of FN 509 pistols are eligible to receive three virtual pistol training classes valued at $120.00 along with a consumer rebate of up to $100.00 depending on the model purchased. FN 509 Standard, optics-ready MRD model or MRD-LE qualify for a $75.00 consumer rebate while a purchase of an FN 509 Edge Series or Tactical model qualifies for $100.00 consumer rebate.
To offer these virtual training classes, FN has partnered with Sheepdog Response, a premier training organization that focuses on providing individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to respond effectively in high-stress situations. This exclusive pistol training bundle streams online and features firearms expert, and special forces operator, Tim Kennedy. It includes Virtual Pistol Training Courses 1, 2, and 3, covering the fundamentals of marksmanship, practical drills, techniques, equipment, and real-world defensive pistol tactics to advance your personal protection training.
“Customers who take full advantage of this rebate program will have spare cash on-hand for extra magazines and accessories, along with top-tier Sheepdog Response pistol training that they can complete at their own time and pace,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “With 50 FN 509 skus included in this promotional offer, there is a little something for everyone and a whole lot of value.”
The FN 509 series of pistols was introduced in 2017 and has quickly expanded to offer compact and midsize options perfect for concealed carry; full size duty pistols with tactical features like extended capacity, factory-threaded barrels and FN’s Low-Profile Optics Mounting System; and the exclusive FN 509 Edge Series with performance upgrades straight from the FN factory. Click here to learn which FN 509 model fits you best.
To qualify for these offers, purchases must be made between July 17 and September 30, 2023, and redeemed online by October 31, 2023. Learn more about the FN Summer Sizzle Rebate and review the program’s full terms and conditions here.
FN Announces $18 Million Expansion Project at Columbia, South Carolina Production Facility
FN Announces $18 Million Expansion Project at Columbia, South Carolina Production Facility
(McLean, VA – May 03, 2023) Following the announcement of the company’s plans to construct a second facility in Liberty, South Carolina, FN America, LLC, U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal, S.A., a global firearms manufacturer, is pleased to share that an $18 million expansion of its Columbia, South Carolina facility will occur later this year with an expected completion in the first half of 2024.
This plan will add more than 40,000-square-feet of manufacturing capacity and office space as well as create a Design Center of Excellence geared toward enhancing the company’s research and development for new products. The expansion will add 102 new positions to the company’s existing workforce and will allow the company to meet the ever-increasing demand for FN products.
“The record growth that our company has had these last several years has enabled us to invest in our South Carolina manufacturing footprint with our soon-to-be new facility in Liberty and now the expansion of our Columbia facility,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “We were established in Richland County more than 40 years ago to manufacture small arms for the U.S. Army, and we are proud to expand our capacity to support that sector of our business.”
For more than 40 years, FN’s production facility has been located in Richland County, South Carolina and has produced more than 1 million small arms under contract to the U.S. Department of Defense. The company was originally established in the United States in 1979 and opened its doors in 1981 to produce the M240 medium machine gun, a variant of the FN MAG-58, under contract to the U.S. Army.
Currently, FN America employs more than 600 individuals to produce firearms, accessories and other adjacent products for the U.S. military, law enforcement agencies as well as authorized retailers. The company has produced the M4A1, M16A4, M249 light machine gun, M240 medium machine gun and FN SCAR under contract for the U.S. military as well as the FN 509 striker-fired pistol line used by U.S. law enforcement agencies like the Los Angeles Police Department and individual officers nationwide.
To view or apply to any open positions, please visit FN America’s careers site at https://careers.fnamerica.com/.
FN Announces Second Facility in Pickens County, South Carolina
FN Announces Second Facility in Pickens County, South Carolina
The New Facility Will Add More Than 100,000-Square-Feet of Manufacturing Capacity and Position the Company to Meet Increasing Demand for FN Products
(McLean, VA – April 26, 2023) FN America, LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal, S.A., a global firearms manufacturer, is pleased to announce plans to open a second production facility located in Pickens County, South Carolina, further expanding the company’s presence in the state. The company will invest $33 million into the construction of the more than 100,000-square-foot facility that will be constructed over two phases. In total, the expansion will add 176 new jobs to the company’s workforce and add new manufacturing capacity that will position the company to meet the increasing demand for FN products.
“FN has experienced significant growth over the last several years and demand for our products continues to increase in all market segments that we serve,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “Our new facility in Liberty, South Carolina will allow us to expand our manufacturing capabilities and grow our highly skilled workforce to meet that new demand. We are proud to partner with Pickens County and the state of South Carolina on this expansion.”
For more than 40 years, the company’s primary production facility has been located in Richland County, South Carolina and has produced more than 1 million small arms under contract to the U.S. Department of Defense. The company was originally established in the United States in 1979 and opened its doors in 1981 to produce the M240 medium machine gun, a variant of the FN MAG-58, under contract to the U.S. Army.
Currently, FN America employs more than 600 individuals to produce firearms, accessories and other adjacent products for the U.S. military, law enforcement agencies as well as consumers. The company has produced the M4A1, M16A4, M249 light machine gun, M240 medium machine gun and FN SCAR under contract for the U.S. military as well as it’s FN 509 striker-fired pistol line used by U.S. law enforcement agencies like the Los Angeles Police Department.
The company plans to break ground on its second facility in 2024 with an anticipated completion in 2025.
To learn more about FN America and its products, please visit www.fnamerica.com. To learn more about future or current, available positions, please visit FN America’s careers site at https://careers.fnamerica.com/.
FN Expands line of FN 15 Modern Sporting Rifles with the All-New FN 15 Guardian
FN Expands line of FN 15 Modern Sporting Rifles with the All-New FN 15 Guardian
This High-Value Carbine Delivers the Quality and Reliability Behind all FN Products
(McLean, VA – April 13, 2023) FN America, LLC is pleased to announce the launch of the FN 15® Guardian™, the newest addition to the company’s modern sporting rifle product line. This carbine is derived from FN’s battle-proven blueprint, delivering FN reliability to all sport shooters and personal protectors who value affordable quality. Chambered in 5.56 and weighing in at 6.6 pounds, the direct-impingement rifle is outfitted with a 15-inch M-LOK® free-floated aluminum handguard and MIL-B-11595 CMV barrel. These premium, FN factory-installed upgrades produce tack-driving accuracy, add customization options, and improve handling.
“High quality and affordability don’t typically go hand-in-hand, but today’s buyer deserves to have the best of both worlds when they’re investing their hard-earned money into a rifle. That’s why we chose to develop the FN 15 Guardian,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “As a leader in barrel manufacturing, FN has some of the most sought-after and high-quality AR-style rifles in the industry. For the release of the FN 15 Guardian, we focused our energy into creating an extremely high-value, reliable carbine that carries the legacy of our manufacturing expertise to new FN customers.”
The FN 15 Guardian is chambered in 5.56x45mm and features a 16-inch button-broached, hybrid-profile barrel with 1:7 twist finished with the classic A2-style flash hider that reduces visible flash during fire. The barrel is machined from 4150 chrome-moly vanadium steel that has been high-pressure tested (HPT), magnetic particle inspected (MPI) and certified, and nitrided to deliver an extremely durable, hardened surface finish that provides corrosion resistance. Paired with the free-floated handguard, the Guardian is capable of exceptional accuracy with match-grade factory ammunition to extend target engagement ranges.
The bolt carrier group is machined from 9310 alloy steel that has also been HP/MPI tested and certified for enhanced strength and durability, and the gas key has been sealed, torqued and staked. The mid-length gas system and low-profile gas block work seamlessly together to ensure reliable operation, while reducing felt recoil.
The lightweight, 15-inch aluminum handguard attaches to the upper receiver via a robust mounting system that securely fastens to the receiver and enables a fully free floated barrel for enhanced accuracy. The handguard features a continuous top rail and 24 M-LOK slots at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions, providing ample space for mounting sights, optics and other accessories.
“When we created the specification for the FN 15 Guardian, our focus was on perfecting the foundation of the rifle to ensure the high standards for FN quality remained, cutting corners to reduce the purchase price was not an option, our customers expect more from our brand and we have to deliver on that trust.” said Scott Vilardi, Senior Product Manager for Law Enforcement and Commercial Carbines. “When you handle our newest carbine at the gun counter and shoot it on the range, you’ll notice the premium fit and finish stands out at this price tier. We’ve paid special attention to the core components to overdeliver on accuracy potential, ergonomics and fast-handling capability. With the new Guardian, FN customers have a dependable and high-quality carbine that’s ready to perform right out of the box and can be easily customized with most AR-pattern components.”
For a streamlined look and feel, as well as reduced snag points, the slick-sided upper receiver eliminates the forward assist while still featuring a brass deflector and ejection port cover to keep spent brass from ejecting back toward the user as well as dirt and debris from entering the moving parts group of the rifle. Additionally, the upper receiver features a tried-and-true MIL-SPEC charging handle and safety selector lever for ease of operation.
The lower receiver is machined from a 7075-aluminum forging, hard coat anodized for a premium surface finish and durability. The carbine is complete with a single-stage MIL-SPEC trigger that ranges from 4.75 – 7.5 pounds along with FN’s custom-designed 30-round magazine and furniture, developed for improved ergonomics and handling.
The custom furniture package, also offered as individual accessories, include the 30-round magazine with in-mold stippled grip texture, polymer matrix construction and anti-tilt follower. A six-position glass-filled polymer stock has three sling attachment points and an anti-snag latch for a tight lockup to the buffer tube, eliminating rattle. The pistol grip is molded with the same durable, polymer matrix material, an optimal 19.5-degree grip angle and in-mold stippled texture to improve control and handling.
The FN 15 Guardian has a suggested retail price of $999.00 and ships with one 30-round magazine packaged in a unique branded cardboard box with owner’s manual. In addition to the Guardian, the FN 15 series of modern sporting rifles include the FN 15 TAC3 and DMR3, along with a complete line of accessories like upper and lower receivers, barrels, furniture and magazines.
The FN 15 Guardian will be on display at the FN Booth (Booth 5450) at the 152nd NRA Annual Meetings. The convention, hosted at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, will take place April 14-16, 2023.