Imbel FAL L1A1 Sporter Metric .308/7.62×51 20” Semi-Auto Rifle w/ Bayonet
SOLD FOR: $1,450
WOA#: WY240124WP010
Make: Imbel, Built by Arizona Response Systems
Model: L1A1 Sporter
Serial Number: 118049
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .308 / 7.62x 51
Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Gas System, Piston
Markings: The charging handle is marked “960-2302 B 61”. The left side of the lower receiver is marked “UE 65 / 118049”. The takedown lever is marked with three British acceptance marks. The left side of the trigger is marked “G62”. The right side of the upper is marked “L1A1 Sporter Cal. .308 / Receiver made by IMBEL – Brazil / Imported by CAI St. Alb VT”. The right side of the magwell is marked “118049”. The center pin is marked “PH”. The front sight base is marked “D 59 960-2266” with a British Arrow acceptance mark. The left side of the front sight is marked “G 80”, “2”. The base of the barrel mounted sling ring is masked with a British Acceptance. The left side of the flash hider is marked “D 81 963-3422” with a triangle and an arrow proof. The right side of the trigger is marked with a British Arrow acceptance mark. The bolt stop is marked with three British proofs. The bottom of the receiver is marked “ARS SPR AZ / OE.13”. The top of the bolt carrier is marked “D 61 960-2107” with two British Proofs. The left side of the bolt is marked “D E”. The bayonet blade is marked “861” with a British Acceptance mark.
Barrel Length: 20.75”. 24” with flash hider.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable post set between two protective ears and the rear is a standard ramp type aperture sight with 300 yard zero and slides to 600 yard extension.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a matching synthetic set. The buttstock has a serrated polymer buttplate and a sling swivel on the belly. The pistol grip is synthetic. The handguard vented polymer. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There is a free rotating sling ring mounted to the barrel in front of the handguard. The bottom of the flash hider has a bayonet lug. The stocks rate in Excellent condition. There are no chips or cracks. There are a few faint and shallow compression marks but overall the stocks are exceptionally clean of any notable defects or blemishes.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 20rd Aluminum FAL magazines in Excellent condition with only some light insert and operation wear.
Type of Finish: Black
Finish Originality: Original to build
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is well defined. There is no visible erosion in the bore. There is some minor fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is little to no operation wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition. There are some scratches and scuffs on the carry handle. There are few marks on the rear of the ejection port.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a total of two magazines, Paperwork from Arizona Response Systems, and an original L1A1 bayonet with scabbard in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: The Imbel L1A1 Sporter is a civilian variant of the iconic FN FAL, a rifle that has left an indelible mark on military history as the “Right Arm of the Free World.” The original FN FAL was designed and produced by Belgium’s Fabrique Nationale Herstal, with the L1A1 being its British-produced counterpart. These rifles were widely adopted by NATO countries during the Cold War, known for their robustness, reliability, and 7.62×51mm NATO cartridge. The Imbel L1A1 Sporter, produced by the Brazilian firm Indústria de Material Bélico do Brasil (IMBEL), is a semi-automatic version tailored for the civilian market, retaining many of the military model’s distinguished features while adhering to legal requirements for civilian use.
IMBEL, an established firearms manufacturer known for its quality products, was licensed to produce the FN FAL and later developed the L1A1 Sporter, ensuring that this civilian model maintained high standards of performance and durability. This transition from a military to a civilian firearm allowed enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of history with the practical applications of modern shooting sports and hunting. The L1A1 Sporter is appreciated for its historical significance, its connection to the FN FAL lineage, and its craftsmanship.
The rifle’s design, characterized by its gas-operated action and distinctive appearance, has made it a popular choice among collectors and shooting enthusiasts. While it offers a nod to the past, the Imbel L1A1 Sporter also provides a shooting experience that is both enjoyable and reliable, bridging the gap between military heritage and civilian sporting use. Its presence in the civilian firearms market underscores the enduring legacy of the FN FAL and its derivatives, celebrating the rifle’s role in shaping the modern era of semi-automatic rifles for both military and civilian users. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
