Hello the camp.
I recently purchased a PTR-91 Classic with wood furniture. I wanted a simi auto 7.62 NATO rifle that has the reliability of an AK, but better accuracy. I considered the Springfield M1A, the DSA SA58 FAL, and the PTR-91.
The requirements were; must feed and function reliably with any 7.62mm NATO/.308 WIN ammo I might happen to find, be capable of 2MOA or better from the bench, have good iron sights, have a provision for optic attachment, good parts availability, and have good mag availability. If I found that two rifles met the criteria, the deciding factor wold be cost.
All three met the accuracy requirement. The PTR-91 (current production, with HK spec chamber fluting) comes out on top when it comes to ammunition sensitivity. The gas system of the FAL and the M1A can be adjusted to allow for ammo variations. All three have decent to great iron sights. The nod goes to the M1A on this count, with the PTR-91 a close 2nd.
At this time, the parts availability seems to be comparable between all three. Parts cost seems to go to the PTR-91. Magazine availability and cost goes to the PTR-91, I can purchase 100 G3 mags for $179.00 including shipping and from the reports most will either be new and in the wrapper or near new with the remainder in excellent condition.
Optic mounting can be accomplished for all three and there are trade offs for all three as well. For me, this is a three way tie.
It was the combination of parts/magazine availability/cost and the ability to reliably feed and function with any ammo I can find that were the deciding factors. In all other considerations (from my perspective), the PTR-91 either tied or was in 2nd place.
In doing my research, it became apparent to me that any of these rifles would be a good choice. Are there better options, sure there are. But at twice the cost and then you start having parts availability issues.
If I decide to add an optic, I'll go with the MFI low profile rail and probably the Buris PEPR QD mount (or something very similar). I'm undecided about an optic.
Here are a couple photos of my rifle. First, as received (plus a sling).
Guests can not see images in the messages. Please register in the forum.
Next, with the collapsible stock.
Guests can not see images in the messages. Please register in the forum.
I will be replacing the plastic Navy lower with a clipped and pinned steel lower which will have a wood hand grip.
When I went to the range to sight the rifle in, I had a pleasant surprise. It was already dead on at 50 yards using the 200 meter aperture, which is as it should be. Shooting PMC Bronze (147 gr FMJBT), I'm getting (when I do my part) 1.5 inch to 2 inch five shot groups at 50 yards (standing, unsupported).
Bookmarks