Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
For nearly two decades, the FN America SCAR has carried a reputation for durability, modularity, and hard-use reliability. Now FN is rolling out the next generation of the FN SCAR.
And the goal is clear: keep the unmistakable SCAR DNA, but make it softer, smoother, and more adaptable for modern shooters, without jacking up the price.
The headline change is inside the gun. FN reworked the operating system with a lighter, hydraulically buffered two-piece bolt carrier that acts like a built-in shock absorber.
The result is noticeably reduced felt recoil and faster follow-up shots. It’s the kind of upgrade you don’t see from across the range, but you’ll absolutely feel it on the trigger.
SEE ALSO: The SIG Romeo and Juliet Combo Pack
Speaking of triggers, FN didn’t leave those alone either. The 16S and 17S get an improved single-stage trigger, while the precision-leaning 20S moves to a new two-stage setup.
Controls are now fully ambidextrous and customizable, with multiple selector lever options that let shooters fine-tune the rifle to their preferences instead of adapting around factory limitations.
One of the biggest updates is suppressor readiness. The new SCAR ships with U.S. standard muzzle threads—1/2×28 for 5.56 and 5/8×24 for 7.62—making it compatible with forward-venting suppressors.
FN is leaning into that capability with the launch of its new FN QD556™ and FN QD762™ suppressors.
These are forward-venting, Inconel-built cans designed specifically with the SCAR’s gas system in mind, aiming to reduce backpressure while maintaining reliability.
They’re rated for serious abuse too, surviving 10,000-round endurance tests that exceeded DoD SURG requirements.
SEE ALSO: M1 Garand Bucket List: Shoot The Legend
Up front, the rifle gets an extended receiver and integrated rail with M-LOK at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, giving shooters more room to mount accessories and better support-hand leverage.
AR-pattern pistol grip compatibility, user-changeable barrels, improved sling mounting points, and Torx fasteners round out a long list of small but meaningful refinements.
Despite all the updates, FN kept what matters. The cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel stays. The short-stroke gas piston remains. Testing still runs hard. Up to 16,000 rounds without major component failure.
The next-gen SCAR lineup includes the 16S, 17S, and 20S, alongside the existing SCAR 15P pistol, with calibers ranging from 5.56 and 7.62 to 6.5 Creedmoor and .300 BLK.
Same legend, better manners. And finally, suppressor-friendly right out of the box. Learn more HERE.
*** Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica! ***
Available on GunsAmerica Now
is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.