Understanding the FN SCAR and its Variants
Introduction
The FN SCAR. The name itself conjures images of rugged reliability, modularity, and battle-proven performance. From the demanding environments of special operations to the hands of civilian enthusiasts, the SCAR platform has earned a reputation for its adaptability. But for many, the allure of the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge, known for its exceptional long-range accuracy and performance, beckons. This leads to the core question: Can a SCAR, specifically the SCAR 17S chambered in .308 Winchester, be converted to shoot the increasingly popular 6.5 Creedmoor? Let’s dive in and explore the possibilities, challenges, and considerations involved in such a transformation.
The SCAR Platform
The core of the SCAR’s modularity lies in its easily interchangeable components. The upper receiver, housing the bolt carrier group and barrel, is designed to be removed quickly. This, at first glance, suggests that swapping the barrel is a straightforward process. However, the devil is in the details. The SCAR’s design facilitates barrel changes, but does it support the necessary changes for switching calibers? The answer is not as simple as a straight “yes.”
Technical Compatibility and Challenges
Barrel Threads and Receiver Compatibility
One of the critical questions revolves around the barrel threads and receiver compatibility. The barrel threads on a SCAR 17S are designed to secure the barrel to the upper receiver. While the thread pitch and size may theoretically accommodate a barrel designed for 6.5 Creedmoor, simply screwing in a new barrel is just the beginning. The chamber dimensions, the barrel’s overall dimensions, and the headspace (the distance between the bolt face and the point on the chamber where the cartridge sits) need to be precisely matched to the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge. Currently, while some aftermarket manufacturers are offering barrels, there isn’t an OEM solution.
Bolt and Bolt Carrier Group Compatibility
Next, the bolt and bolt carrier group become central to the debate. The bolt, the part of the rifle that locks the cartridge into the chamber, must be compatible with the cartridge’s case dimensions. A .308 bolt is designed to work with the .308 Winchester cartridge, which has a different case head diameter than the 6.5 Creedmoor. A 6.5 Creedmoor bolt will have a smaller face to accommodate the smaller case head. Consequently, a simple barrel swap would not be sufficient. The bolt and likely the bolt carrier group would need to be changed. This significantly increases the complexity of the conversion. Simply put, you cannot use your existing .308 bolt and carrier group with a 6.5 Creedmoor barrel.
Magazine Compatibility
Magazine compatibility is another area to consider. The SCAR 17S utilizes magazines designed for .308 Winchester. While the overall magazine well size is the same, the internal dimensions and the feed lips must match the case dimensions of the cartridge. In this scenario, existing .308 magazines will likely not function properly with the 6.5 Creedmoor. You’ll need dedicated magazines designed for the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge to ensure reliable feeding. This may mean either purchasing new magazines or finding custom modification solutions if possible.
Gas System Adjustment
The gas system also demands scrutiny. The SCAR’s gas system plays a vital role in cycling the action, ensuring reliable extraction, ejection, and loading of cartridges. The gas port size in the barrel is calibrated to the .308 Winchester cartridge. Switching to 6.5 Creedmoor, which operates at a different pressure and requires a different powder burn rate, might necessitate adjusting the gas system to maintain optimal function. Failing to do so could lead to malfunctions, excessive recoil, or damage to the rifle. A gunsmith with experience in SCAR customization is essential to correctly address these gas system adjustments.
Headspace Considerations
Headspace, that critical measurement representing the distance between the bolt face and the chamber, is another critical piece of the puzzle. Proper headspace ensures that the cartridge sits at the correct depth in the chamber when the bolt is closed. If the headspace is too short, the rifle may not close or even fire. If the headspace is too long, the cartridge may stretch and cause failures. Headspace needs to be meticulously checked after barrel replacement, ensuring the correct dimension specific to 6.5 Creedmoor is achieved.
Components Needed for the Conversion (If Possible)
If a conversion is to be attempted, it requires more than a simple barrel swap. Here is an overview of the necessary components, and the challenges that come with them. First and foremost, a new barrel chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor is essential. This barrel will need to have correct threads for the SCAR receiver and should come from a reputable manufacturer known for quality. Second, a bolt specifically designed for 6.5 Creedmoor. You’ll also need a bolt carrier group designed to pair with that bolt. Third, magazines compatible with the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge. Finally, consideration must be given to the gas system, which may require adjustment to accommodate the differing pressures of the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge.
The Pros and Cons of Switching
Advantages of Using 6.5 Creedmoor
The advantages of potentially converting your SCAR to 6.5 Creedmoor are certainly appealing. The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge is celebrated for its superior ballistic performance compared to the .308 Winchester, especially at longer ranges. The 6.5 Creedmoor typically offers a flatter trajectory, less wind drift, and higher retained energy downrange than the .308. This means more accurate shots at extended distances. In addition, some shooters may experience a perceived reduction in recoil with the 6.5 Creedmoor compared to the .308, making it more comfortable to shoot and potentially improving accuracy.
Disadvantages and Considerations
However, there are significant disadvantages to consider. The primary one is the cost. The price of a new barrel, bolt, carrier group, magazines, and professional gunsmithing adds up quickly. Conversion could easily cost hundreds, or even thousands of dollars, depending on the components and the gunsmith’s fees. Another major concern is reliability. If the conversion is not performed correctly by a skilled gunsmith, you could experience malfunctions, reduced accuracy, and potential damage to the rifle. This also could impact the rifle’s resale value. Before deciding, make sure your state and local laws allow for modifications like these.
Current Availability and Market Solutions
As for current availability, it is an evolving space, there are some aftermarket manufacturers that offer barrels in 6.5 Creedmoor for the SCAR platform. However, as of now, there are no officially sanctioned conversion kits offered by FN Herstal. The aftermarket solutions provide a pathway, but they require careful consideration and professional expertise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, *can* your SCAR switch barrels from .308 to 6.5 Creedmoor? The answer is, *potentially*, with some significant caveats. It is *possible* to convert a SCAR 17S to 6.5 Creedmoor, but it’s not a simple barrel swap. It requires the purchase of specific parts, including a barrel, bolt, bolt carrier group, and magazines, and, most importantly, expert gunsmithing. The advantages of the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge are real, including its long-range accuracy and ballistic performance. Yet the cost, the complexity, and the potential for reliability issues must be carefully weighed. If you’re considering this conversion, start by thoroughly researching available parts, consulting with a qualified gunsmith experienced with SCAR rifles, and determining whether the cost and effort are justified for your shooting needs. The SCAR is an exceptional rifle. Properly converting to a new caliber like the 6.5 Creedmoor can open new doors for precision and performance. However, the path to that transformation requires a dedicated approach and the expertise of a professional.
