AR-15 vs FN FAL

1964–Present

1953–Present

12,000,000+ units (combined military, law‑enforcement, and civilian production)

7,000,000+ units

840 mm (33.1 in) with stock extended (16 in barrel), 730 mm (28.7 in) with stock collapsed (14.5 in barrel)

1,090 mm (42.9 in) stock extended; 1,020 mm (40.2 in) stock folded (para)

406 mm (16 in) standard, 368 mm (14.5 in) carbine, 508 mm (20 in) designated marksman, 254 mm (10 in) pistol‑length

533 mm (21.0 in) standard; 458 mm (18.0 in) para variant

3.2 kg (7.1 lb) empty (16 in barrel, without optics)

4.25 kg (9.37 lb) empty

30 rounds standard, 10/20/40/60 round options, drum magazines up to 100 rounds

20 rounds standard; 5, 10, 30 round options available

Direct‑impingement gas system (original) or short‑stroke gas piston (aftermarket/variant), rotating bolt, semi‑automatic or select‑fire

Short-stroke gas piston, tilting breechblock, selective fire

Single‑stage semi‑automatic trigger; military select‑fire models use a two‑stage fire selector with safe, semi, burst, and automatic modes

Two-stage military trigger

Standard: detachable flip‑up rear iron sight and fixed front post; many models equipped with Picatinny rail for optical, holographic, or night sights

Aperture rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation, hooded front post