After combing thru the FAQ's and threads on this site and the FALfiles, and trolling the marketplace/classifieds here + FF + Sturm..., I was bitten by the bug and managed to stumble across a DSA SA58 LTW carbine with the shortened gas system. It has the alu lower receiver and top cover, 16" barrel with integral short MB. Called DSA to verify the SN# was good, and have cleaned it thoroughly.
Got some mags and cleaning stuff coming from Tapco, and plan to go for a first shoot soon. The rifle has almost no internal wear marks whatsoever on it. Appears to have less than 100 rds thru it. Feed ramps are sharp and pristine with no wear at all. Ditto on the bolt and rails.
After getting used to irons I want to replicate Mad Dog's low profile optic set-up with a 2-7x 32 mm scope:
http://64.177.53.248/images/fal_all.jpg
Here is a pic of an identical unit - the last one down:
http://www.derbyfals.com/fubar.htm
http://www.derbyfals.com/images/fubar01s.JPG
Having some FTF issues even from a bolt-open position using the Radway ammo - no problems with loading Win Silvertips or Hornaday. I'm guessing I need to do the receiver feed lip polishing job.