7.62mm L1A1 automatic rifle

The 7.62mm L1A1 is a gas operated, self-loading rifle. The rifle is normally fitted for the self-loading single-shot mode, but minor changes of components in the trigger mechanism render the rifle automatic. It is a modified version of the Belgian FN Fusil Automatique Léger (FN FAL). The L1A1 was in service with the British infantry until 1985. The rifle was sold or provided as military aid to many nations and remains in widespread use around the world.

Production: No longer manufactured in the United Kingdom. It has been produced under license in Australia and Canada. A similar model is being produced at the Rifle Factory in Ishapore, India.

Manufacturer: Heckler & Koch, BAE Systems.

Service: Barbados, Canada, Gambia, Guyana, India, Malaysia, Oman, Royal Ulster Constabulary, and Singapore.

Cartridge: 7.62 x 51 mm

Operation: gas, single shots

Method of locking: tilting block

Feed: 20-round box magazine

Weight: empty, 4.3 kg (9.48 pounds); loaded, 5 kg (11.02 pounds)

Length: 1.143 m (45 inches)

Barrel length: 554 mm (21.81 inches)

Muzzle velocity: 838 m/s (916 y/s)

Effective range: 600 m (656 yards)

 

Source: Jane's publications (Infantry Weapons, 1999-2000)