


| Name | FN SCAR (SCAR-L / SCAR-H) |
| Weapon Type | Assault Rifle / Battle Rifle |
| Manufacturer | FN Herstal |
| Country of Origin | Belgium |
| Year Introduced | 2009 |
| Designer | FN Herstal Engineering Team |
| Service Status | In Service |
| Users | United States, Belgium, France, Poland, Malaysia |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2,770–2,800 ft/s (varies by caliber) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (SCAR-L) / 800 m (SCAR-H) |
| Maximum Range | 1,000 m+ |
| Rate of Fire | 550–650 RPM |
| Accuracy | High |
| Reliability | High |
| Overall Length | 28.5–38.5 in |
| Barrel Length | 10–20 in (variant-based) |
| Height | 9.5 in |
| Width | 2.5 in |
| Weight (Empty) | 3.29–3.58 kg |
| Weight (Loaded) | ~4.0–4.2 kg |
| Caliber | 5.56mm / 7.62mm NATO |
| Cartridge Type | NATO-standard cartridges |
| Feed System | 20–30 round magazines |
| Fire Modes | Semi-auto / Full-auto |
| Operating Mechanism | Short-stroke gas piston |
| Construction | Polymer, Aluminum Alloy |
| Durability | High |
| Ergonomics | Modern |
| Standard Sights | Folding iron sights |
| Optics Compatibility | Full-length Picatinny rail |
| Accessory Mounts | Picatinny rail system |
| Optional Attachments | Laser, optics, suppressor, bipod, etc. |
| Variants | SCAR-L 5.56mm light assault rifle SCAR-H 7.62mm battle rifle SCAR-SSR Enhanced sniper support rifle |
| Combat Proven | Yes |
| Notable Conflicts | Iraq, Afghanistan, counter-terror ops |
| Military Adoption | U.S. SOCOM, Belgium, France |
| Special Features | Barrel-swap modularity, ambidextrous design |
| Modern Upgrades | Rails, optics integration, improved stock |
| Legal Notice | Information is for educational purposes only. TheDefenseWatch.com does not sell, trade, or promote illegal acquisition of firearms. |
The FN SCAR (Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle) is one of the most recognizable modern combat rifles in U.S. and NATO service. Developed by FN Herstal for U.S. SOCOM requirements, the SCAR family was engineered to deliver exceptional reliability, modularity, and performance in demanding combat environments ranging from deserts to dense urban terrain.
Designed in Belgium and adopted by U.S. special operations units, the FN SCAR platform includes two primary versions: the SCAR-L chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO and the SCAR-H chambered in 7.62×51mm NATO. Its modular construction allows operators to rapidly swap barrels, change configurations, integrate optics, and mount mission-essential accessories with ease. This flexibility has made the SCAR a preferred rifle for operators who require a single platform capable of fulfilling assault, designated marksman, and close-quarters missions.
Built around a short-stroke gas piston system, the FN SCAR provides superior reliability compared to traditional direct-impingement rifles, especially in harsh environments. The weapon features an adjustable stock, fully ambidextrous controls, and a monolithic upper receiver with extended Picatinny rail space that accommodates optics, lasers, night-vision devices, and infrared aiming modules.
Combat-proven across theaters including Afghanistan, Iraq, and various counter-terrorism operations, the SCAR has earned a reputation for high accuracy, durability, and consistent performance under stress. Its 600–800 m effective range (depending on variant) makes it suitable for both close-quarters battle and medium-range engagements, giving operators a versatile, mission-specific tool.
With its modern design, enhanced ergonomics, and adaptable architecture, the FN SCAR continues to remain one of the most sought-after modern rifles for special operations and elite military units worldwide.
In the United States, the FN SCAR typically ranges between $3,000 and $4,500, depending on variant, configuration, and commercial availability.
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