South Carolina-based FN America on Tuesday announced new models of the SCAR-series rifles with updates to include ambidextrous, non-reciprocating charging handles.
The NRCH-series variants to the FN SCAR line will include models of the SCAR 16S 5.56 NATO, 17S 7.62 NATO, and 20S 6.5CM/7.62 NATO rifles. As the handles work for both left- and right-handed users, the upgrade couples with the gun's fully-ambi surface controls and adjustable stock to accommodate virtually any shooter.
"Adding the non-reciprocating charging handles allows SCAR to be even more adaptable, enhancing an already accurate and soft-shooting rifle," said Benjamin Voss, product manager for FN’s long guns. "Shooting positions like urban prone, from a barrier or with a CQC-style grip are made possible and users can now run low-mount optics without interference."
Related: We Saw How SCARs Are Born on a Visit to the FN Factory
The upgrade includes an entirely new charging handle sled with two ambi, reversible charging handles that lock forward on bolt-close and remain there for the firing cycle – allowing forward assist capabilities. One of the reversible handles has a 30-degree cant designed to reduce interference with low-mount optics while the other is a low-profile handle. Finally, the reduced reciprocating mass of the new bolt carrier produces less felt recoil.
The MSRP for the NRCH variants of the SCAR 16S, 17S, and 20S are $3,569, $3,849, and $4,799, respectively. These prices are about $170-$300 more than the standard SCAR models.
