Don’t call it a comeback; you knew the FN SCAR was too good to die!
That’s right, FN just dropped three updated SCAR models. The beloved battle rifle lives, and it’s better than ever.
And FN didn’t stop there, either. They also dropped two new suppressors and a new pistol!
There’s a lot to get into, so let’s break it all down.
FN SCAR 17S Specs & Features
Specs
- Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor, 7.62 NATO
- Action: Semi-automatic, piston
- Capacity: 10+1, 20+1
- Barrel Length: 16.25”
- Overall Length: 36” – 38.5”
- Weight: 8.9 lbs
- Country of Origin: USA
- MSRP: $3,999
Features
- Short-stroke gas piston with a two-position regulator
- Compatible with AR-style pistol grips
- Vertical foregrip, piston removal tool, and premium soft case included
The second-generation SCAR takes three forms.
The SCAR 16S is chambered for 5.56 NATO and has a 16.25-inch barrel. Think of it as a premium, piston-operated alternative to the AR-15.
The SCAR 17S is probably what most people think of when they think about the SCAR. It combines power from either 7.62 NATO or 6.5 Creedmoor with a maneuverable 16.25-inch barrel. It’s a heavy hitter in a carbine-size package.
Finally, the SCAR 20S fills the designated marksman rifle (DMR) role with a 20-inch barrel spitting 7.62 NATO or 6.5 Creedmoor.
All three are instantly recognizable as SCAR, but FN touts more than 24 changes compared to the previous models.
Those include a lightweight, hydraulically buffered bolt carrier; an improved trigger (single stage on the SCAR 16 S and SCAR 17S, two stage on the SCAR 20S); standard threads for direct-mounting a suppressor (1/2×28 on the SCAR 16S, 5/8×24 on the SCAR 17S and SCAR 20S); and ample M-LOK and QD points for accessorization.
The pistol grip also uses a normal AR-15 pattern to make life simpler if you want to modify your SCAR – no more Dremel required.
The bottom line? The new SCAR models are more modular and softer-shooting than ever before.
“The next generation of the SCAR is the culmination of decades of development, proving what can be accomplished when our team is never satisfied,” Dan Hines, vice president of commercial products, said in a company release.
“We combined input from consumer feedback and technical analysis of every SCAR component to create the ultimate in performance, shooter experience and adaptability, all at a similar price to the current SCAR.”
FN lists an MSRP of $3,799 for the SCAR 16S, $3,999 for the SCAR 17S, and $4,499 for the SCAR 20S.
FN QD Suppressor Specs & Features
Specs
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO, 7.62 NATO
- Material: Inconel, stainless steel
- Construction: 3D printed
- Dimensions: 7.69” long x 1.62 diameter (QD556), 8” long x 1.62 diameter (QD762)
- Country of Origin: USA
- MSRP: $1,299 (QD556), $1,399 (QD762)
Features
- Stainless steel blast chamber with inconel baffles
- Compatible with SCAR and AR platforms
- Front-venting design for reduced backpressure
For 2026, FN is expanding its suppressor line with two rifle-caliber cans.
As the names imply, the QD556 is built around 5.56 NATO, while the QD762 is sized up for 7.62 NATO.
Both feature a stainless steel blast chamber for durability, and they survived extensive full-auto testing. The 3D-printed baffles use Inconel, with venting out the front of the can to reduce backpressure.
Mounting options include quick-detach, HUB, and direct-thread.
Pricing appears to be right around what I expect from high-end, duty-grade suppressors. FN lists an MSRP of $1,299 for the QD556 and $1,399 for the QD762.
FN 309 Specs & Features
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Action: Semi-automatic, single action
- Capacity: 16+1, 20+1
- Barrel Length: 3.8”
- Overall Length: 7.4”
- Weight: 3 oz
- Country of Origin: USA
- MSRP: $549
Features
- Single-action trigger with an internal hammer
- Direct-mount optic compatibility
- Extra-light recoil and magazine springs
The FN 309 is the company’s entry into a more budget-conscious segment of the pistol market.
At an early-access media event, engineers inside the program assured Pew Pew Tactical Content Producer & Lead Review Analyst Sean Curtis that the price wasn’t achieved by outsourcing or cutting corners, though. This is still an FN with quality components.
The 309 isn’t just easy on the wallet, it looks pretty easy to live with, too.
Instead of a striker, the 309 uses an internal single-action hammer that suggests a smooth trigger pull and positive reset.
The recoil spring and magazine springs are also lighter than usual, making the 309 easier to load and make ready than you might be used to.
“Many gun buyers don’t see FN as an option, and we wanted to change that perception by making the brand accessible to people looking to spend $500 on a 9mm pistol,” Chris Johnson, senior product manager for pistols, said in a company release.
“With the FN 309 MRD we now have a trustworthy, easy-to-use pistol perfect both for new gun buyers and those looking to purchase their first FN. For us, it’s not just a new product, it’s FN’s commitment to offering the everyday user peace of mind and FN performance.”
FN lists an MSRP of $549 for the 309.
What do you think of the new FN lineup? Let us know below. For more awesome guns and gear, check out our guide to the Best 5.56 Rifles That Are Not AR-15s, Best AR-15 Suppressors, and Best 9mm Pistols!
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