The FN SCAR 20S is a sniper rifle that represents the latest evolution in precision shooting, building upon the legendary SCAR platform developed by FN Herstal. Known for its reliability and modular design, the SCAR series has been a staple for military forces around the world. With the SCAR 20S, FN has taken the proven SCAR design and optimized it for long-range precision shooting, making it a formidable choice for tactical and competitive marksmen alike. In this review, we’ll explore the FN SCAR 20S in detail, discussing its design, performance, optics, and more to help you understand why this rifle has become a favorite among precision shooters.
Contents
Overview & Specifications
The FN SCAR 20S is manufactured by FN Herstal, a world-renowned firearms maker based in Belgium. This semi-automatic precision rifle is designed for military, law enforcement, and civilian long-range precision shooting. Its modularity, adaptability, and precision make it a powerful tool for shooters who require accuracy and reliability in a variety of environments.
Chambered in the powerful 7.62×51mm NATO, the SCAR 20S can handle a range of ammunition types, including military-grade ball ammunition and match-grade rounds for competition or hunting. This caliber provides an excellent balance of range, stopping power, and versatility, making it suitable for both tactical engagements and long-range precision shooting.
The SCAR 20S is a semi-automatic rifle, offering fast follow-up shots without the need for manual cycling, which is an advantage in fast-paced situations. It boasts a barrel length of 20 inches, which strikes a balance between compactness and accuracy at long ranges. The overall weight of the rifle is around 11 pounds (5 kg), which, while on the heavier side, ensures stability and durability when shooting. With an effective range of up to 1000 meters and a muzzle velocity of approximately 800 m/s (2,625 ft/s), the SCAR 20S is a true precision tool capable of hitting targets at extreme distances. The rifle uses a 20-round magazine, offering a good balance between capacity and the need for rapid reloading in tactical settings.
Design & Build Quality
The design of the SCAR 20S is a testament to FN Herstal’s commitment to creating rugged, high-performance firearms. The rifle’s construction is primarily built from high-strength polymers and aircraft-grade aluminum, which keeps the weight manageable without sacrificing durability. The barrel is cold hammer-forged, a process that increases both accuracy and longevity, making the SCAR 20S highly durable even after thousands of rounds.
Ergonomically, the SCAR 20S is designed for precision and comfort. The stock is adjustable, allowing shooters to fine-tune their fit for maximum stability and comfort, especially during long shooting sessions. The rifle features a monolithic upper receiver and a free-floating handguard, which ensures that the barrel is not influenced by external factors such as pressure from bipods or slings, maintaining optimal accuracy. The handguard is equipped with M-LOK slots for easy attachment of accessories, and the rifle also includes a folding stock for compactness and portability.
When it comes to durability, the SCAR 20S shines. The rifle is built to handle extreme conditions, from the heat of a desert to the frigid temperatures of the Arctic. Its rugged design ensures it will perform reliably in harsh environments, making it an ideal choice for military and tactical use. In terms of fit and finish, the SCAR 20S feels like a premium rifle, with tight tolerances and a solid feel when shouldered. It’s not a cheap rifle, but it’s certainly a rifle built to last.
Performance & Accuracy
The FN SCAR 20S is engineered to provide exceptional accuracy, and it does not disappoint. At 100 meters, the rifle delivers tight groupings, and its precision continues as the distance increases. At 500 meters, it still provides sub-minute-of-angle (MOA) accuracy, and at 1000 meters, it remains a highly effective sniper rifle, especially when paired with high-quality optics and match-grade ammunition.
The recoil is manageable thanks to the rifle’s weight and advanced recoil system, which allows shooters to stay on target for faster follow-up shots. The rifle’s balance is excellent, with a weight distribution that makes it easy to stabilize when firing. The SCAR 20S is also highly compatible with bipods, ensuring a stable shooting platform for long-range engagements. The trigger is crisp and responsive, offering a clean break for those critical shots at extended distances.
Factors such as barrel quality, free-floating design, and the rifle’s superb trigger all contribute to its accuracy. The free-floating barrel, in particular, ensures that the barrel doesn’t experience any deflection when pressure is applied by a bipod or sling, maintaining consistent shot placement. Overall, the SCAR 20S performs excellently at both medium and long ranges, offering precision that rivals the best sniper rifles in its class.
Optics & Customization
The SCAR 20S is designed to be fully compatible with high-end optics, and it’s equipped with a full-length Picatinny rail system, allowing shooters to easily attach a wide variety of scopes and optics. Whether you’re looking for a high-magnification scope for extreme long-range shooting or a mid-range optic for tactical engagements, the SCAR 20S can accommodate your needs.
In terms of customization, the SCAR 20S is a versatile platform. The M-LOK handguard allows for easy attachment of accessories like bipods, lights, and lasers, giving you the flexibility to configure the rifle to suit your shooting style. Additionally, the rifle’s stock is adjustable for length of pull and cheek height, allowing shooters to fine-tune the fit for maximum comfort and performance.
While the factory configuration of the SCAR 20S is already top-notch, aftermarket modifications are available to further enhance its performance. This includes barrel upgrades, suppressors, and enhanced trigger systems, among other options. Whether you’re looking to improve the rifle’s accuracy or adapt it for a specific role, the SCAR 20S offers plenty of room for customization.
Ammunition & Ballistics
The 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge is a versatile and effective round for precision shooting, and it’s the ideal match for the SCAR 20S. This round offers a good balance of power and range, making it suitable for everything from tactical operations to long-range competition shooting. For best performance, it’s recommended to use match-grade ammunition, such as the Hornady Match or Federal Gold Medal rounds, which provide consistent accuracy at extended ranges.
The SCAR 20S excels in various shooting scenarios, whether it’s hunting, tactical operations, or precision shooting in a competition. The 7.62×51mm NATO round offers significant stopping power while maintaining a flat trajectory, allowing shooters to effectively engage targets at long distances. The rifle’s ballistics are well-suited for both high-stress tactical engagements and calm, focused precision shooting.
Reliability & Maintenance
The SCAR 20S is known for its reliability, and it is designed to function in a wide range of environments. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or baking in the heat, the SCAR 20S will continue to perform reliably. This is thanks to its high-quality construction and attention to detail in design, which ensures that the rifle can handle the rigors of both military and civilian use.
Maintaining the SCAR 20S is straightforward, with a modular design that allows for easy disassembly and cleaning. The rifle’s gas-operated system is highly efficient, minimizing fouling and reducing the amount of maintenance required. While the rifle is easy to clean and maintain, it’s still important to follow proper care procedures to ensure optimal performance.
Common malfunctions are rare, but like any precision rifle, the SCAR 20S may require attention after prolonged use, particularly if it’s subjected to harsh conditions. FN Herstal’s customer support is top-notch, offering warranty service and technical assistance should any issues arise.
Pros & Cons
The FN SCAR 20S has many strengths, including its exceptional accuracy, solid build quality, and modular design. Its semi-automatic action allows for quick follow-up shots, making it a highly effective rifle in both tactical and precision shooting contexts. The rifle’s ability to handle extreme conditions and provide consistent performance in all environments is another standout feature.
On the downside, the SCAR 20S is on the heavier side, which may be a consideration for those who need to carry it for extended periods. Additionally, while it offers excellent customization options, some shooters may find the price point a bit high compared to other precision rifles in the same category.
Who Is This Rifle For?
The SCAR 20S is best suited for experienced marksmen, military personnel, and law enforcement officers who need a reliable and accurate long-range rifle. It’s also an excellent choice for precision shooting competitions and even hunting. While it’s not the best option for beginners due to its price and weight, those with experience in long-range shooting will appreciate its performance and versatility. When compared to other rifles in the same category, the SCAR 20S holds its own and may even surpass them in terms of modularity and customization.
Verdict & Final Thoughts
The FN SCAR 20S is a precision rifle that blends cutting-edge technology with the proven SCAR platform. Its exceptional accuracy, reliability, and modular design make it a top-tier choice for tactical and long-range precision shooting. While it may be on the pricier side, the SCAR 20S is built to last and perform in a wide variety of conditions, making it well worth the investment for serious shooters. Whether you’re in the military, law enforcement, or a competitive shooter, the SCAR 20S lives up to expectations and is a rifle that demands respect.
Pierre Dubois
French journalist with a penchant for precision, exploring the intricate world of snipers and high-caliber firearms.
