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Price Range:
$2,500 - $3,000
Specification
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer Name | FN Herstal |
Country of Origin | Belgium |
First Build Date | 2006 |
Action | Bolt-Action |
Caliber | .308 Winchester / 7.62 NATO |
Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
Barrel Length | 24 inches |
Overall Length | 42.5 inches |
Weight | 6.35 KG |
Price Range | $2,500 – $3,000 |
Overview
The FN SPR A5M (Special Purpose Rifle) is a highly regarded sniper rifle designed and manufactured by FN Herstal, a Belgian company renowned for producing top-tier firearms. Introduced in 2006, the SPR A5M is known for its precision, reliability, and long-range capabilities, making it a favored choice among military and law enforcement professionals, as well as civilian precision shooters.
Chambered in .308 Winchester, the FN SPR A5M is capable of achieving sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy, making it an exceptional choice for long-range engagements, often out to 1,000 yards and beyond. The rifle’s build quality, including its cold hammer-forged barrel, provides outstanding durability and performance under a variety of harsh conditions.


Strength and Quality
FN Herstal is known for manufacturing firearms of the highest quality, and the FN SPR A5M is no exception. The rifle is constructed from durable materials, with a focus on accuracy and longevity. The cold hammer-forged barrel ensures precision, while the adjustable stock and ergonomic design cater to long-range shooters looking for comfort and accuracy in one package. The rifle’s monolithic receiver and well-machined components provide a solid platform for mounting optics and other accessories, further enhancing its versatility.
Safety Features
The FN SPR A5M is equipped with a manual safety, which is located near the trigger guard, ensuring that the rifle cannot be fired until the safety is disengaged. The bolt-action mechanism itself provides an inherent layer of safety, as it requires manual operation between shots, preventing accidental discharges. As with all firearms, it is important to follow standard safety protocols, such as keeping the rifle pointed in a safe direction and ensuring the safety is engaged when not in use.
Test Results
- Accuracy: The FN SPR A5M is known for its sub-MOA accuracy, producing 1-inch groups at 100 yards with high-quality ammunition.
- Effective Range: With the .308 Winchester cartridge, the FN SPR A5M performs effectively at ranges up to 1,000 yards, with consistent results in optimal conditions.
- Recoil: The rifle’s weight and design help manage recoil, ensuring that shooters can maintain control, though recoil is still moderate due to the .308 round.
- Penetration: The .308 caliber provides excellent penetration at long distances, suitable for various types of targets, including both personnel and light vehicles.
Merits
- Accuracy: The FN SPR A5M is capable of sub-MOA accuracy, ensuring consistent precision at long distances.
- Effective Range: The rifle is well-suited for long-range engagements, delivering reliable performance beyond 1,000 yards with the .308 Winchester round.
- Durability: The construction and quality materials used ensure that the FN SPR A5M can handle extreme conditions, maintaining performance over time.
- Adjustability: The adjustable stock provides a tailored fit for various shooters, enhancing comfort during extended use.
Demerits
- Weight: At 11.8 lbs, the FN SPR A5M is relatively heavy, which may hinder mobility for some users, especially during prolonged carry.
- Price: The rifle’s price range of $2,500 – $3,500 places it in a premium category, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Recoil: Although manageable, the recoil from the .308 round can be significant for some shooters, especially when firing multiple rounds in quick succession.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: The FN SPR A5M should be cleaned regularly to ensure consistent accuracy. The barrel should be cleaned after each use, and the action should be lubricated to prevent wear.
- Lubrication: Periodic lubrication of the moving parts, such as the bolt and trigger mechanism, is essential to maintain smooth operation and prevent malfunctions.
- Barrel Inspection: The barrel should be inspected for wear after extensive use, especially if the rifle has been subjected to long-range shooting sessions.
Comparison with Other Guns
FN SPR A5M vs Other Rifles
Feature | FN SPR A5M | Remington 700 Police | Savage Model 10 GRS | Bergara B-14 BMP | Howa 1500 Bravo | Tikka T3x CTR |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Belgium | United States | United States | Spain | Japan | Finland |
Caliber | .308 Winchester | .308 Winchester | .308 Winchester | .308 Winchester | .308 Winchester | .308 Winchester |
Effective Range | 900 m | 800 m | 800 m | 800 m | 800 m | 800 m |
Weight (Unloaded) | 6.35 kg | 4.1 kg | 4.4 kg | 4.5 kg | 4.2 kg | 4.1 kg |
Barrel Length | 24″ | 26″ | 24″ | 24″ | 24″ | 20″ |
Action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action |
Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds | 4 rounds | 10 rounds | 5 rounds | 10 rounds | 10 rounds |
Primary Use | Precision Shooting | Law Enforcement | Precision, Tactical | Precision Shooting | Precision Shooting | Tactical, Precision |
Price Range (USD) | $2,500–$3,000 | $1,200–$1,500 | $1,400–$1,800 | $1,700–$2,000 | $1,200–$1,500 | $1,500–$2,000 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The FN SPR A5M is effective up to 1,000 yards, though it can still maintain accuracy beyond that with proper ammunition and environmental conditions.
Yes, the FN SPR A5M is available for civilian purchase, though it is primarily designed for military and law enforcement applications.
The FN SPR A5M stands out for its exceptional accuracy, solid construction, and modular design. It excels in long-range shooting with the .308 caliber, but it is heavier compared to some lighter sniper rifles.
Yes, the FN SPR A5M is designed to operate in various environmental conditions, and its durability ensures reliable performance in extreme weather.
Regular cleaning, lubrication, and barrel inspection are essential to keep the FN SPR A5M functioning optimally. It is also important to store the rifle in a dry place to prevent rust.