I've gone through the local want ads, gunbroker, j&g and a few others.

Anyone know where I might be able to acquire a 308 semi auto for around $400? Not looking for anything new (especially at that price point) but looking for something solid.

 

A good article explaining the difference between .308 Win and 7.62x51 Nato

303british.com/id36.html

 

I wonder if this is comparable to .223 and 5.56. I have an AR15 and have shot both rounds with no problems. 5.56 is higher compression but again, no problems. My barrel is stamped as 5.56 so I didn't hesitate.

Thanks for the link!

 

Yes and no. 5.56 Nato fires at a higher pressure then the .223 version. In this case the 5.56 chamber can quite easily handle the .223 because the chamber is designed to withstand the higher pressure of the 5.56. Another difference has to do with the Leade that you find in rifles chambered for the 5.56. The leade for a .223 typically measures .085" while the 5.56 sits at .162". The longer leade can handle the .223 but generally you will see a drop in velocity and accuracy out of it. The reason you don't fire 5.56 through a .223 chamber is because the shorter leade creates a pressure build up inside of the chamber, so not only do you stuff a hotter round into it but you also magnify the pressure which generally leads to a cracked/bulged/blown out receiver.

Now that being said, I can get to my No part. The .308 Win can generally (please do not take this statement as validation to stuff ever 7.62 Nato that you can into your .308 Win as it still is not the best idea) handle the 7.62x51 but the 7.62x51 can not handle the .308 Win.

 

Most FALs are Nato rounds, but if you want 308 DSA makes them. However they are more than 400.

 

Don't get a Cetme, get a G3... Way more options, and if you know someone with a sear pack they are fun in F/A.

 

The days of $400 FAL's are sadly long over. Probably 10 of mine were $400 to $500 investments and that was building them myself. I used to be able to pick up a nice kit for $100-150 and an Imbel receiver for $150, Required US parts for $75.
Thankfully, I stocked up on extra kits and receivers years ago, so I have building fodder for years to come.






Your best bet for a FAL at that range is going to be a used gun from an individual seller. If you have no luck there, If you pick up the kit and receiver I will gladly lend you the assembly tools you need if you want to tackle it yourself. Its and easy job if you have basic tools and mechanical ability.

Davesrb