# FN M249S Semi-Auto Rifle 5.56mm FDE Tactical Precision

**Brand:** FN Herstal
**Category:** Semi-Automatic Rifles
**Caliber:** 5.56 NATO

## Specifications

- **Caliber:** 5.56 NATO
- **Barrel Length:** 16.1"
- **Capacity:** 30 rounds
- **Finish:** Black
- **Weight:** 256 oz
- **Overall Length:** 31.5"
- **UPC:** 845737009687
- **SKU:** UCEt9uIp5

## Description

The FN M249S is a semi-automatic rifle from FN America, derived from the military M249 light machine gun platform and adapted for civilian ownership. It is chambered in 5.56mm NATO / .223 Rem. with a 16.1-inch forged steel barrel and a 1:7 RH twist rate.

### Key Specifications
- **Model**: M249S
- **Manufacturer**: FN America
- **Caliber**: 5.56mm NATO / .223 Rem.
- **Barrel Length**: 16.1 inches
- **Capacity**: 30 rounds
- **Weight**: 16 lbs (256 oz)
- **Total Length**: 31.5 inches (37 inches extended)
- **Action**: Semi-Automatic
- **Safety Type**: Crossbolt safety

### Features
The telescoping stock adjusts to different length-of-pull preferences. Sights consist of an open adjustable rear and a pinned blade front. The receiver and handguard have a Flat Dark Earth finish, and the polymer grip keeps weight in check. The 1:7 twist stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights.

### Usage
The M249S fits recreational shooters drawn to the military lineage, as well as those running tactical drills where a semi-auto belt-fed-style platform is useful. Weight is worth considering for anyone planning extended carry.

## What Customers Say

*AI-generated insights from customer reviews*

The FN M249S in 5.56mm FDE gets solid marks for build quality and durability, which users generally credit to FN's manufacturing standards. The semi-automatic action is appreciated for giving reasonable control during faster strings of fire, and accuracy at longer ranges is mentioned positively by precision-focused shooters.

The FDE finish draws favorable comments for both looks and its utility in various environments. Shooters who spend long sessions at the bench report the ergonomics are comfortable.

The main criticisms center on weight. At 16 lbs, it's heavy compared to most semi-auto rifles, and some find that tiring for anything beyond static range shooting. Price is another regular topic. Many acknowledge the quality but note it sits at the higher end of the semi-auto rifle market. Magazine compatibility and proprietary accessory costs also come up, with some users finding the options more limited than with AR-platform rifles.

Overall the reception is positive, though the weight and cost consistently shape the conversation.

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*Data from [GunsNation](https://gunsnation.com)*