Review: FAC FAL Receiver Review

Review: Federal Arms Corp (FAC) Type III "Dan Coonan" FAL Receiver

(updated 11-26-07)

Federal Arms Corporation (FAC) Closed its doors in 2005. FAC had been the exclusive reseller of the FAL receiver manufactured by Dan Coonan Industries (DCI). Apparently FAC owned the moulds, while DCI did the finish machining on the castings. Harlan, a former employee of FAC, has opened a new company NODAK SPUD to be the marketing arm for DCI. FAL receivers have not been available since then, with Dan Coonan concentrating on the AK receiver market.

Gun went together fine, proof tested first trip to range. Recommend FAC examine locking shoulder leg hole. Non-critical problem. Overall very nice for a casting. Subsequent to first publishing this review, I have assembled two other rifles on this receiver and experinced no additional difficulties. There is some question on the height of the vertical pad on the left of the chamber. This contacts a corresponding pad on the bolt carrier and appears to be the only critical dimension. The rest of the area is relieved more than a standard FN, however I am not prepared to say this is "wrong" just "different". I will gladly build on this receiver - a nice job in the tradition of other fine Coonan products (he is no newcomer to the gun industry).

I have also had the opportunity to examine a Dan Coonan (DC) gas piston. Very nicely done, dimensionally correct, with a superior polish and chrome plating. Clearly and neatly engraved.

DCI Receiver

	Overall Condition of Receiver is nice. Fine grains from the casting give an even, soft texture
	Mag well appears fine
	Surface around gas piston hole rough in texture, but regular, Appears to be deeper clearance cuts than on original.
	Ejector block fit well
	External lightening cuts present for Type I appearance. Internal cuts not present.
	Threading has no "interupt" as original
	good appearance
	cutout for locking shoulder dog leg off set from hole slightly required sanding of locking shoulder foot. Also not as deep as an original - it stuck out a bit like the DSA.