When it comes to .308 tactical rifles, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10. Both rifles are known for their reliability, accuracy, and versatility, making them favorites among shooters and enthusiasts. In this article, we will compare these two rifles in various aspects to determine which one comes out on top.
The purpose of this comparison is to provide potential buyers with a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each rifle. By examining their design and ergonomics, accuracy and precision, recoil and muzzle rise, trigger and action, magazine capacity and reloading, accessories and customization options, as well as price and value, we aim to help readers make an informed decision when choosing between the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10.
Design and Ergonomics: How Do the FN SCAR 17S and AR-10 Compare?
In terms of physical characteristics, the FN SCAR 17S features a polymer lower receiver with a folding stock, while the AR-10 typically has an aluminum lower receiver with a fixed or collapsible stock. The SCAR 17S is known for its sleek and modern design, with ambidextrous controls that make it easy to operate for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. On the other hand, the AR-10 offers a more traditional look and feel, with a wide range of aftermarket parts available for customization.
When it comes to comfort and ease of use, both rifles have their advantages. The SCAR 17S has a fully adjustable stock that can be customized to fit the shooter’s preferences, allowing for a more comfortable shooting experience. Additionally, its ambidextrous controls make it easy to manipulate the rifle in any shooting position. The AR-10, on the other hand, may not have as many adjustable features, but its ergonomic grip and overall balance make it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Weight and balance are also important factors to consider when comparing these rifles. The SCAR 17S weighs in at around 8 pounds, making it relatively lightweight for a .308 rifle. Its balanced design and compact size make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The AR-10, on the other hand, tends to be slightly heavier, with weights ranging from 8.5 to 10 pounds depending on the specific model. While this may make it slightly less maneuverable, some shooters prefer the added weight for increased stability and reduced recoil.
Accuracy and Precision: Which Rifle Performs Better?
When it comes to accuracy and precision, both the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10 are capable of delivering impressive results. However, there are several factors that can affect the performance of each rifle.
One factor that can affect accuracy is the barrel length. The SCAR 17S typically comes with a 16-inch barrel, while the AR-10 can have barrel lengths ranging from 16 to 20 inches or more. Generally, longer barrels tend to provide better accuracy due to increased muzzle velocity and longer sight radius. However, shorter barrels offer better maneuverability in close quarters.
Another factor that can affect accuracy is the quality of the barrel itself. Both rifles are known for their high-quality barrels, but some shooters may prefer one over the other based on personal preference or specific shooting requirements.
Range performance is another important aspect to consider when comparing these rifles. Both the SCAR 17S and the AR-10 are capable of reaching out to long distances with accuracy. However, some shooters may find that one rifle performs better than the other at certain ranges or under specific conditions.
Recoil and Muzzle Rise: Which Rifle Is Easier to Control?
Recoil and muzzle rise are important factors to consider when choosing a .308 rifle, as they can affect the shooter’s ability to stay on target and quickly acquire follow-up shots.
In terms of recoil, both the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10 are known for their relatively low recoil compared to other .308 rifles. The SCAR 17S features a gas piston operating system, which helps to reduce felt recoil by redirecting gas away from the shooter. The AR-10, on the other hand, typically uses a direct impingement gas system, which can result in slightly more felt recoil. However, many shooters find that the difference in recoil between the two rifles is minimal and can be mitigated with proper shooting technique.
Muzzle rise, or the upward movement of the barrel during firing, is another factor that can affect control and follow-up shots. The SCAR 17S is known for its low muzzle rise, thanks to its gas piston system and muzzle brake. The AR-10, on the other hand, may exhibit slightly more muzzle rise due to its direct impingement gas system. However, with proper grip and technique, shooters can effectively manage muzzle rise with either rifle.
Trigger and Action: Which Rifle Has a Better Trigger Pull?
The trigger pull is an important aspect of any rifle, as it directly affects the shooter’s ability to accurately place shots. Both the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10 have triggers that are generally considered to be of good quality.
The SCAR 17S features a two-stage trigger with a relatively light pull weight. Many shooters find this trigger to be crisp and predictable, allowing for precise shot placement. The AR-10 typically comes with a single-stage trigger that may have a slightly heavier pull weight compared to the SCAR 17S. However, there are aftermarket options available for both rifles that can improve the trigger pull to suit individual preferences.
Smoothness and consistency are also important factors to consider when evaluating trigger performance. Both rifles have triggers that are generally smooth and consistent, with minimal creep or grit. However, some shooters may prefer the feel of one trigger over the other based on personal preference.
Magazine Capacity and Reloading: How Do the Rifles Compare?
Magazine capacity and ease of reloading are important considerations for any tactical rifle. The FN SCAR 17S typically comes with a 20-round magazine, although higher capacity magazines are available. The AR-10, on the other hand, can have magazine capacities ranging from 10 to 30 rounds or more, depending on the specific model and magazine used.
When it comes to reloading, both rifles offer relatively easy and straightforward procedures. The SCAR 17S features a magazine release button that is easily accessible and can be operated with either hand. The AR-10 typically has a similar magazine release button, although some models may have ambidextrous controls for added convenience.
Availability of magazines is another factor to consider when comparing these rifles. While both the SCAR 17S and the AR-10 have a wide range of compatible magazines available on the market, some shooters may find that one rifle has more options or better availability than the other.
Accessories and Customization: Which Rifle Has More Options?
The ability to customize a rifle to suit individual preferences and shooting requirements is an important consideration for many shooters. Both the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10 offer a wide range of accessories and customization options.
The SCAR 17S has a Picatinny rail system that allows for easy attachment of accessories such as optics, lights, lasers, and foregrips. Additionally, there are aftermarket stocks, handguards, and muzzle devices available for further customization. The AR-10, on the other hand, is known for its extensive aftermarket support, with a wide range of accessories and parts available from various manufacturers. This allows shooters to fully customize their AR-10 to their liking, from the stock and handguard to the trigger and barrel.
Ease of customization is another factor to consider when comparing these rifles. While both the SCAR 17S and the AR-10 can be customized to a great extent, some shooters may find that one rifle is easier to modify or has more readily available options than the other.
Price and Value: Which Rifle Offers Better Bang for Your Buck?
Price is an important consideration for many shooters when choosing a tactical rifle. The FN SCAR 17S is known for its high price tag, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $4,000 or more depending on the specific model and accessories included. The AR-10, on the other hand, tends to be more affordable, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 or more depending on the brand and configuration.
Value for money is another important factor to consider when comparing these rifles. While the SCAR 17S may have a higher price tag, it offers a high level of quality, reliability, and performance that may justify the cost for some shooters. The AR-10, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much in terms of performance and features.
Long-term cost considerations should also be taken into account when comparing these rifles. Factors such as ammunition cost, maintenance requirements, and availability of spare parts can all affect the overall cost of ownership.
Pros and Cons: A Comprehensive Look at the Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Rifle
To summarize the strengths and weaknesses of each rifle:
FN SCAR 17S:
– Pros: Sleek design, ambidextrous controls, adjustable stock, low recoil and muzzle rise, high-quality barrel, good trigger pull, easy reloading, wide range of accessories available.
– Cons: High price tag, limited magazine capacity, limited aftermarket support compared to the AR-10.
AR-10:
– Pros: Wide range of aftermarket support, customizable, affordable price, good accuracy and precision, low recoil and muzzle rise, good trigger pull, high magazine capacity.
– Cons: Heavier weight compared to the SCAR 17S, less ambidextrous controls, may require more maintenance compared to the SCAR 17S.
Which Rifle Comes Out on Top in the Battle of the .308 Tactical Rifles?
In conclusion, both the FN SCAR 17S and the AR-10 are excellent .308 tactical rifles that offer a high level of performance and versatility. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preferences and specific shooting requirements.
If you value a sleek design, ambidextrous controls, and a lightweight package, the FN SCAR 17S may be the better option for you. It offers a high level of quality and performance but comes with a higher price tag.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more customizable rifle with a wide range of aftermarket support and a more affordable price, the AR-10 may be the better choice. It offers good accuracy and precision, low recoil and muzzle rise, and high magazine capacity.
Ultimately, it is important to consider factors such as design and ergonomics, accuracy and precision, recoil and muzzle rise, trigger and action, magazine capacity and reloading, accessories and customization options, as well as price and value when making your decision. By carefully evaluating these factors and considering your personal preferences and needs, you can choose the .308 tactical rifle that best suits you.
