Showdown: The FN SCAR 17 vs Robinson Armament XCR-M

Summary

In this comparison video, the FN SCAR 16 and Robinson Armament XCR rifles are evaluated in terms of design, performance, and features. Both rifles were developed for the SCAR program, but only the SCAR saw military use. The video explores key differences, such as modularity, gas systems, recoil, triggers, and stock durability. The XCR is praised for its advanced features and versatility, including easy barrel changes and a superior trigger, while the SCAR is highlighted for its proven combat reliability. Ultimately, the XCR is favored for its mechanical features, though the SCAR's milder recoil gives it an edge for combat scenarios.

Takeaways

• 😀 The FN SCAR 16 and Robinson Armament XCR are both rifles developed for the same program, but with distinct differences in design and performance.
• 😀 The SCAR 16 is chambered in 7.62 NATO, while the XCR can be configured for various calibers including 7.62 NATO, .223/5.56, and 6.5 Creedmoor.
• 😀 The XCR features modularity with a user-level removable barrel that allows for quick changes in barrel lengths and calibers, while the SCAR 16 requires more effort to swap barrels.
• 😀 The XCR is slightly lighter than the SCAR 16, with a weight of around 8 pounds compared to the SCAR's 9.1 pounds.
• 😀 Both rifles feature different upper receiver constructions: the SCAR has a polymer lower, while the XCR has an aluminum forging.
• 😀 The SCAR 16 has a two-position gas valve, whereas the XCR has an eight-position adjustable gas valve, offering more customization for performance.
• 😀 The SCAR includes backup iron sights, while the XCR does not come with any backup sights.
• 😀 The XCR has a superior, crisp two-stage trigger with a 4.5-pound pull, while the SCAR is known for its heavier, less smooth trigger.
• 😀 While both rifles have ambidextrous features, such as a magazine release and safety, the XCR includes an ambidextrous bolt release, which the SCAR lacks.
• 😀 Recoil on the SCAR 16 is notably milder than on the XCR, making it easier to control, especially when compared to the heavier reciprocating mass of the XCR.

Q & A

What are the two rifles compared in the video?

The two rifles compared in the video are the FN SCAR 16 and the Robinson Armament XCR.

What was the main competition between the FN SCAR and the Robinson Armament XCR?

Both rifles were designed for the U.S. military's SCAR program, but the FN SCAR won, with the Robinson Armament XCR being eliminated on a technicality due to a missing part.

Which rifle is easier to customize in terms of changing calibers and barrel lengths?

The Robinson Armament XCR is easier to customize, as it features a user-level removable bolt and barrel system, allowing for quick changes in barrel lengths and calibers. In contrast, the FN SCAR requires significant disassembly and is less user-friendly in this regard.

What are the key differences in the barrel between the two rifles?

The FN SCAR uses a cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel, while the Robinson Armament XCR uses a non-chrome lined, stainless steel barrel. The FN SCAR has a 1 in 12 inch twist rate, while the XCR uses a 1 in 10 inch twist.

How do the gas systems compare between the FN SCAR and the Robinson Armament XCR?

The FN SCAR typically uses a two-position gas valve, while the Robinson Armament XCR offers an eight-position adjustable gas valve, providing more fine-tuned control over gas settings, particularly for suppressed shooting.

Which rifle offers better ambidextrous features?

The Robinson Armament XCR offers more comprehensive ambidextrous features, including an ambidextrous bolt catch and magazine release, while the FN SCAR has a less versatile setup with a single-side magazine release and a non-ambidextrous bolt catch.

What is the weight difference between the two rifles?

The FN SCAR 16 weighs approximately 8 pounds, while the Robinson Armament XCR weighs about 9.1 pounds, making the XCR slightly heavier.

Which rifle has a more comfortable recoil and why?

The FN SCAR 17 has a milder recoil compared to the Robinson Armament XCR. The XCR, with its larger reciprocating mass, generates more recoil, even with the gas system adjusted.

What are the key differences in the trigger pull between the two rifles?

The FN SCAR is known for having a heavy trigger, around 6.25 pounds, and is often upgraded with a Geissele trigger. In contrast, the Robinson Armament XCR has a much lighter, crisper two-stage trigger with a pull weight of about 4.5 pounds.

How do the rifles compare in terms of cost?

The FN SCAR 16 costs around $4,239, whereas the Robinson Armament XCR is priced at approximately $2,550, making the SCAR significantly more expensive.

Which rifle has seen combat use, and which has not?

The FN SCAR has a proven combat history and has been used by military forces, whereas the Robinson Armament XCR has not seen military use due to its elimination from the SCAR program and lack of widespread adoption.

What is a notable flaw with the FN SCAR's stock?

The FN SCAR's stock, known as the 'UGG boot' stock, is prone to breaking, leading soldiers to carry extra stocks in combat.