Thread: Rebarreling an L1A1

Hi all, I've been toying with the idea of finding a beat-up upper for my L1A1 and re-barreling it with a heavy barrel so I can play around at longer ranges while keeping the upper it has now original. Are there any inherent difficulties with doing this? I'm guessing if the gunsmith sets it up so that the chamber on the new barrel is head-spaced for the existing bolt, things should be ok? My knowledge of gunsmithing, especially for rattle guns is pretty limited, so any input is appreciated.
Yes, before anyone says it; I do realize a target AR-10 would be more accurate

As the upper is the serialised part on a slr it's the gun so you wouldn't get the same convenience benefits that you do with a ar with multiple uppers.

But it should be very doable.

The ability to use washers to headspace on a slr would make it easier to do. But if you're using a custom barrel anyway it could be worth getting cut to headspace-would take a bit more gunsmith time is all.

Scott Trail has done this for me both on a heavy.308 and a hunter 7mm08 build

Personally I would do it as a separate whole gun so you can do all the little things to tighten them up.

A ar10 would probably do the job better and cheaper but would be no where near as cool

I wonder how an L1A1 in 260 rem would go could be a giggle

Firearms, Firearms Parts & Accessories Manufacturer. Import and Export

These guys used to do a FAL .260 rem front end which you can just screw on, No longer. They don't do L1A1 barrels anymore either.

Custom fitting a barrel to your L1A1 will work fine. I have built several heavy barrel and sporting custom L1A1's in .308, .243, and 7mm08. They work a treat, but it pays to go through the whole rifle to tighten them up, tune the trigger etc.

Originally Posted by 300CALMAN

Firearms, Firearms Parts & Accessories Manufacturer. Import and Export

These guys used to do a FAL .260 rem front end which you can just screw on, No longer. They don't do L1A1 barrels anymore either.

Dammit I've always had a love of this rifle. Now the want is greater.
I always felt jealous of the corporals who had this as their rifle as privates, but then again maybe only knowing the crappy Steyr was probably a blessing.

I owned an L1A1 before the army and it really ruined having to carry a Steyr.

BTW DS Arms were great to deal with maybe one day I will buy one of their FALs, always wanted the Para version.

Can anyone recommend someone in NZ to replace my L1A1 barrel?
I have a new replacement barrel but no shims or locking shoulders. is there anyone that can provide this service?