[SHOT 2023] Brigade Manufacturing Makasi FAL/AR Hybrid Rifle By: Daniel Y

Brigade Manufacturing Inc.’s new Makasi rifle was on display at SHOT Show 2023 in the AmChar Wholesale booth. It blends the FAL and AR-15 into something new, almost sort of modernized FN CAL. Let’s delve into this unique design and what it has to offer.

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[SHOT 2023] Brigade Manufacturing Makasi FAL/AR Hybrid Rifle

From a distance, the Makasi looks a little like a side-charging AR-15. The left-side, non-reciprocating charging handle is straight off of the FAL. The takedown lever is also a very close relative of the standard FAL model, which allows the upper and lower to break apart and pivot on the front pin.

Other controls are very much the children of the AR-15. The safety and trigger are AR-compatible. Also, the magazine release and bolt catch are laid out the same as the AR. It also uses standard AR-15 magazines.

Unlike the AR-15, the Makasi has a short-stroke piston system. It also houses the recoil spring in the upper receiver. This means that no buffer tube is required and the gun can be fired with the stock extended or folded. In lieu of a standard buffer tube, the Makasi has a vertical Picatinny rail. This system is becoming increasingly popular on guns that do not require an AR buffer.

The Makasi’s stock mounts to the receiver Picatinny rail and closely mimics the Para FAL (or Galil) stock. This is a very solid design that has a reputation for durability. However, should the end user desire a different option, there are many alternate options available.

Brigade anticipates an MSRP of $1,740.95, with availability in Q1 2024.

[SHOT 2023] The Makasi charging handle clearly comes from the FAL

[SHOT 2023] The trigger and safety are AR-compatible

[SHOT 2023] The ejection port door is a standard AR model, but inverted

[SHOT 2023] The folding stock is of the Para FAL or Galil pattern

[SHOT 2023] The stock mounts to the Picatinny rail on the back of the receiver

Specifications:

• Receiver: Upper & Lower 7075-T6
• Caliber: 5.56 NATO
• Gas System: Short-Stroke Gas Piston
• Barrel: 16″, 4150 Steel, 1:7 Twist
• Weight: 7.5 pounds
• MSRP: $1,740.95

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