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3/11/2011 7:03:29 AM EDT
So I have an early BGS kit (Type A lower and stock) with an Entreprise Type I receiver that I would like to build soon. I'm currently waiting on a bonus from the Army so I can buy an Argy bipod cut barrel from Sarco and that's all I need. I have zero previous experience with FALs, never even shot one. My question is, how hard would it be for me to build it myself? What tools would I need? How expensive would it be? Would it be worth it for me to buy the tools and go through the trouble to build this one if it could possibly be my only one? If not, how much could I get it built for (no refinish)? Also, one last question: I have the upper and lower "mocked up" right now, with the lower on the upper and the top cover, bolt carrier, and charging handle installed. Would it be okay for me to install the little part that's pinned to the charging handle that pulls the bolt back? (slide cocking lug?) Or will I just have to take it back off when I go to have it built?

Thanks in advance!




ETA: Also, which parts count as compliance parts?
3/11/2011 8:16:36 AM EDT
[#1]
I was in the same boat a while ago....only handled one at the fun shop, never fired one.  I knew that I wanted one for my arsenal of democracy....so I found a kit, and went with a Coonan receiver.
For me, it was cheaper to do myself...tools included.  I was quoted locally (AZ fal smith) $250.  No refinishing included.  I bought receiver wrench and barrel vice and gage pins for less.  I will say the wrench I bought was less than adequate though.  I had to weld it up to make it stronger.
If you like to tinker, which I think most guys that buy kits do, I'd say go for a DIY.  You'll be proud of the results (hopefully )
3/11/2011 10:51:36 AM EDT
[#2]
Nice kit!!!
You can install the cocking handle you won't need to take it off when you build it.

I have been building FAL's for over 10 years.
I charge $175 plus $25 return shipping to build it.
I work at CMP Armory in Dallas NC

I would build it myself if I were you, that's how I got started. Nothing like shooting a gun you built yourself!!!!
I'd be glad to talk you through the build if you decide to do it yourself.


Go to falfiles.com and you can learn and buy everything you need to know to build it yourself, I am moses over there btw.
3/11/2011 10:53:21 AM EDT
[#3]
Also there are a lot of FALFILER's in Fl. if you are close to any of them they would probably let you use their stuff to build your FAL.
3/11/2011 12:54:48 PM EDT
[#4]
Do like I did. Buy the stuff off either here, or falfiles. also get Gunplumbers DVD and work book. When you are finished, sell them for about 5 bucks less per item. You'll get most money back.
3/12/2011 8:24:22 AM EDT
[#5]
Thanks for the info, guys! Yeah, it's a good kit..spent $250 on it and some guy offered to buy it for $500 because of the lower. It's a keeper, though

So what tools, exactly, do I need? How much am I looking at spending on tools alone? Do I need a press? Also, what compliance parts are needed? I don't want to change the pistol grip, stock, or handguards. I'm guessing piston, trigger/hammer/sear, and selector? Anything I'm missing? Man, I hate to change out that selector..anything else I can use?

ETA: Is there anywhere I can find a diagram of what all the little screws and pins and washers go to? I've figured out almost all of it but I'm still confused on a few little pieces.
3/13/2011 5:29:13 AM EDT
[#6]
The main thing you need is Gunplumbers DVD and book. He can be a real pain in the a$$ on Falfiles, but is a really good gunsmith, and his DVD and work book is tops. Then you'll need a receiver wrench and barrel vise, or a receiver block, and a barrel wrench either way is OK. You'll need a set of head space gauges, you need a set of pins to measure what you get from the headspace gauges to know what locking shoulder you'll need. The Locking shoulder that comes with it may or may not be the correct one.

If you do not understand any of this, it shows how important the DVD and workbook is. That was the 1st thing I purchased when I started building mine.



3/13/2011 9:59:33 AM EDT
[#7]
Where can I find all the tools I need to build my FAL? All I've found is the barrel vice.

ETA: Actually, I think I just need to find a receiver wrench. Think I found the rest of the stuff.
3/13/2011 3:53:21 PM EDT
[#8]
Look in the Equipment here, but I got everything I needed on the Marketplace on Falfiles.com. You might get one thing from one person, and something from someone else.

Here is a link to "new" barrel vises, and reciever wrenchs....

LINK

Here's link to US compliance parts

LINK

Here's a group buy on receivers

LINK

And place a want to buy there.......
3/13/2011 5:17:42 PM EDT
[#9]
I have the gunplumber work book and VHS tapes I got in a trade for some stuff I will sell for $50 shipped, he sells them for $70.

It has everything you would ever need to know to build an FAL yourself.
3/18/2011 8:08:05 AM EDT
[#10]
Can someone explain to me how the gas block is attached to the barrel? Is it the pin on the front and then the handguard screw? None of the screws in my kit will fit through the hole in the gas block..

ETA: I just tried the handguard screw and it goes through halfway and stocks..could that slot be bent somehow? Should I contact APEX about a replacement?
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