by Mishaco
I have been interested in the Israeli Galil for well over a decade. Between my enjoyment of all things AK, and my appreciation for the IDF, it was really only a matter of time. When the Century Golani Sporter came out in 2006, I thought it would scratch the itch. It did too, right up until the first time i shot it and the charging handle came flying off, and it slam fired due to not having a firing pin spring. Then all the issues with the receivers came out, and eventually I just sold it. From there I've tried several different Galil types, even having a preban or two. Well more on semi-auto Galils later.
This thread is to solute Israel Galili and his rifle family.
Development History:
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(An Israeli light barreled FAL, this one a preban SBL receiver gun)
The genesis of the Galil dates back to the Six Days War of 1967. In that war, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) was primarily equipped with the FN FAL; specifically the light barreled Romat infantry rifle and the heavy barreled Makleon light machinegun. These were supplimented with various other weapons from around the world, including the Uzi submachinegun and even some old bolt action K98 Mausers. While Israel won that war, it was discovered that the FAL was not ideally suited for desert warfare and the needs of the IDF. It was too susceptable to dust and sand, which resulted in jamming and other malfunctions. Additionally, it was felt to be too long and heavy, making it difficult to use in combination with armored vehicles. The FAL became so problematic for some soldiers that they opted to use Uzis, even though the SMG had a limited range and stopping power. At least it was reliable even in the deep desert though. On the otherhand, the AK47 used by Israel's Arab enemies performed extremely well. In fact when the IDF captured AKs, it reissued them to some of its elite units.
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(An Israeli heavy barreled FAL LMG, this one built by Springfield using a surplus IDF parts kit)
After the war, the IDF requested a new assault rifle to be chambered for the then very modern .223 Rem (later 5.56mm NATO) small diameter cartridge. The new rifle was to replace all FALs in service, along with some Uzi SMGs. At the time, only the Colt M16A1, Armalite AR18, Stoner M63, and H&K HK33 were available in .223, so the IDF's options were limited. The FN CAL, SIG SG540, and Beretta AR70 were in development but had not been unvailed or perfected yet.
In the late 1960s, IMI's Chief Designer Israel Galili (Berchenko ) started work on his own .223 caliber assault rifle. Galili was not at all afraid to borrow a good idea when he saw it, so his rifle ended up with features from such firearms as the M16, FN FAL, and of course the AK47. In fact, the earliest prototypes were captured Russian AK47s (Type II and III), which Galili modified with the addition of a FAL folding stock and pistol grip, left side thumb selector, and a folding bipod. These were more proof-of-concept models than anything else.
Next Galili played around with various receiver types, including both milled forged steel, and riveted sheet steel. In the end, he decided that milled was the way to go, both for durability and to handle the higher pressures generated by the .223 cartridge. It was around this time in development that he seemed to become very inspired by Valmet of Finland's RK.62 assault rifle, which itself was based on the Russian AK47 Type III. From the RK.62, Galili borrowed its general receiver dimentions, exposed and dovetailed gas tube, and sighting system. Many sources claim that early prototypes were built up on Finnish receivers, however there is no actual hard evidence to backup such a claim.
From there, development continued at a good pace. Galili chose to use an M16 style rear sight, which was mounted to the dustcover as on the Valmet. Likewise, his rifle's flash hider was a virtual copy of the birdcage style found on the M16A1. The FN FAL Paratrooper type tubular stock was retained, but its construction was switchd from aluminium alloy to steel and the release button was dropped to simplify matters. Internally, the design was very remencent of the AK47, right down to the two lug rotating bolt, long-stroke gas piston system, and fire control group. Galili's rifle had an AK style charging handle attached directly to the carrier, however it pointed upward rather than horizontally so it could be pulled with the off hand when required. Finally, the weapon fed from AK type magazines made of stamped steel.
In 1971, with support from IMI's CEO Yaacov Lior, Galili's design was submitted for trials to select the IDF's next standard issue rifle. It went up against the American M16A1, West German HK33, Russian AK47, and another domestic design by Uziel Gal (creator of the Uzi SMG). The various tests were primarily targeted at discovering how the firearms performed with sand, dust, and dirt. There was a 18,000 round endurence portion as well. While none of the designs submitted performed perfectly, it was decided that Galili's was the most promising. Therefore with the blessing of the IDF's Chief Of Staff General Haim Bar-Lev, the rifle was cleared for further refinement in September, and IMI geared up for mass-production. Israel Galili was honoured by the IDF by having its next rifle named after himself (though he did protest out of modesty).
Features of the Galil:
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(the Galil ARM, basic infantry version used by the IDF)
The Galil is based on the original pattern of the AK47, especially its internal operations. It uses a long-stroke gas piston, which is fixed to the bolt carrier, which itself houses a dual lugged rotating bolt. There is a long spring behind the carrier, which drives it forward after recoiling. The weapon has a ported gas tube over the barrel, with a non-adjustable gas block. It uses a fire control group inspired by the M1 Garand's, and is of the double hook AK style. The selector has three positions; safe, semi-automatic (repeat fire), and automatic (a Micro variant is also offered with 3 round burst).
The Galil's receiver is milled from a steel forging and is a single piece. The only rivets on it are those that hold on the trigger guard and the one for the bullet guide. The barrel is chromelined and is screwed into the receiver. Early versions had a 1 in 12 twist rate for 55g bullets, and later ones have the modern 1 in 7 rate for 62g. The early flash hider was very similar to the one found on the M16A1 and could launch rifle grenades. In the early 1980s, it was updated to a ported style, which better reduced felt recoil while still acting as a flash hider. The weapon is topped by a heavy stamped steel dustcover, which also houses the rear sights. Early versions lacked a bayonet lug, however later a NATO compatable lug was introduced to support the M7 bayonet.
Some thought was put into making the Galil more ergonomic than the AK47. The selector is ambidextrous, with the traditional AK switch on the right side and a thumb switch added to the left above the pistol grip. The grip itself is larger and longer than the AK's, and it is definitely more comfortable. The magazine catch was extended and received a protective bracket. The charging handle is also ambidextrous, as it comes out and bends up at a 90 degree angle. This allows it to be grasped from the left over the dustcover if required. The Galil's stock is one of its best features. Based on the one found on the FN FAL Paratrooper rifle, it is made of tubular steel and locks up nice and tight. The upper tube is covered by a plastic sleave, to protect the shooter's cheak from bare metal. Early stocks had a pronounced curve to the buttplate, while later ones have a mostly straight one.
The Galil has a windage and elevation adjustable post front sight, which is protected by a full steel ring. It is mounted atop the gas block and is very durable. The rear aperture sight has two settings; 0-300 meters and 301-500+ meters. It is not adjustable for windage. It is durable, but since it is mounted to the dustcover, it can shift around some, especially on rifles that have seen extensive or hard use. All Galils come standard with flip-up tritium 3 dot night sights, which are preset for 150 meters. Some weapons come from the factory with a dovetail on the left side of the receiver, which is capable of accepting a detachable scope mount (either rings or weaver rail).
The Galil uses AK style "rock & lock" magazines and does not feature a bolt hold open. The standard capacity is 35 rounds, and both steel and polymer mags in this size are offered. There is also an extended capacity magazine, which holds 50 rounds. This type of mag is made only of steel and was designed for use in the ARM when used in the LMG/SAW role. Finally, there is a special short 12 round mag available, which is only capable of holding blank ammunition for use when launching rifle grenades.
the Galil in the IDF:
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(the Galil SAR, early version)
The Galil was officially adopted into Israeli military service in 1972; and by April of the following year, the production line at IMI was up and running. However, when the Yom-Kippur war broke out in October, very few Galils were available for combat. As a result, Israel once again went to war with the FN FAL, along with some M16s donated under the American emergency aid program.
Starting in 1974, the Galil began to be issued in large numbers to units throughout the IDF. By the time of the Lebanon Conflict in 1982, it was officially the primary issue rifle. However, the IDF by that time also had large stockpiles of M16A1s and CAR15s thanks to the American M.A.P. The Galil was mostly issued to vehicle and armor crews, as well as artillery units, many in the Air Force, and the Knesset Guard. On the otherhand, most of the standard infantry was equipped with the M16A1. While elite forces units were given the option of using the Galil, many opted to stick with their trusty old AK47s (most of which dated back to the Six Days War). That said, in the late 1970s, some did begin using the CAR15, preferring its small size and extreme lightweight. For various reasons, the Galil was simply not popular with elite units. By the late 1980s, such units were trading in both their seldom used Galils and wornout AK47s; selecting more CAR15s.
By the 1990s, the rest of the IDF followed suit, and the Galil was being replaced in the field by members of the M16 family. Eventually, the Command Staff changed the official standard issue rifle to the M16, with the M4 and other carbines as support weapons. By the turn of the millenium, very few Galils remained in active Israeli service. Mostly those that were left were issued to tank crews, and others who only occasionally needed a rifle.
There is an on-going debate as to why the IDF ultimately chose to use the M16 over the Galil. While it is correct that the USA essentially gave Israel thousands upon thousands of M16s at extremely low prices, while the Galil cost considerably more for IMI to manufacture; that is only part of the reason. The Galil is durable and reliable, and it is also quite heavy and has typical AK47 accuracy. This isn't to say it is inaccurate at all, just that the M16 is more so. That and the fact that the Galil's rear sights are mounted to the dustcover, so they can be a bit unstable at times. The M16 on the other hand is lightweight (especially the M16A1 variant), quite accurate, and very modular. While the M16 isn't as reliable as the Galil in the desert, this can be improved with daily cleaning, which IDF soldiers practice anyway. The truth is simply that Israeli soldiers just prefer the M16. They find it lighter and handier, and the Command Staff is happy to go along with their wishes as it is economically advantageous.
This is not to say the Galil has been a failure, far from it in fact. The IDF still purchased tens of thousands from IMI, and when it began to move away from the rifle in the 1980s, IMI changed its strategy. It marketed the Galil series to other customers overseas, offering several variants. The Galil AR, ARM, and SAR were all options, and could be had chambered for either 5.56mm or 7.62mm NATO. Later, a DMR version of the ARM in 7.62mm and the Micro Galil in both calibers were added to the IMI catalogue. In the end, over 25 nations adopted the Galil, and it has seen service throughout South America, Africa, and East Asia. No firm production numbers are available, but IMI (now IWI) has produced at least 700,000 Galils and probably more. Aside from the M16 and AK47, the Galil is one of the most successful military assault rifles of the late 20th Century. Today, its legacy continues with the Galil Ace, which was introduced in 2010. So the story is not over yet. Galili's design has stood the test of time and indured.
the South African Galil:
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(A South African Vektor R4 clone built on an ORF receiver using original Lyttleton parts)
Israel was not the only nation to use the Galil on a large scale. In 1963, the U.N. instituted an arms embargo against South Africa. It was voluntary at first, however in 1977 it became mandatory for all member nations. The South African National Defense Forces (SADF) had long relied on foreign made arms to equip its ranks. In 1964 it adopted the FN FAL, much as Israel had done a decade earlier. This lead to the R1, which was a domestic variant manufactured by Lyttleton Engineering Works.
The SADF had better luck with the FAL than the IDF, but by the time of the complete embargo in the late 1970s, the R1 was quickly becoming obsolete. So Armscor of South Africa went rifle shopping. It wanted a select fire weapon which was both lighter and more compact, and that fired the .223 round. Also it had to be something that Lyttleton could manufacture in-house. After a series of trials in 1980, the Galil was chosen to be SADF's next standard issue rifle, and a production license was purchased from IMI.
The new rifle was designated as the Vektor R4 and was generally a close copy of the Galil ARM. It did have a few alterations though. These were intended to make it better suited for the average South African soldier and for the country's climate. The R4 had a smaller front sight post, with a larger protective ring. It had a lipped gas tube, which was more secure, combined with a longer handguard made of tough polymer. The pistol grip was ever so slightly reshaped, and the receiver lacked the dovetail for a scope base. The stock was made of polymer to reduce weight and was 1" longer to better suit taller persons. The R4 had an ARM style bipod and flash hider, but it lacked the carry handle and bayonet lug. Early on, it was issued with steel 35 and 50 round magazines, but soon the shorter mag type was changed to a polymer material; again to save on weight. Most soldiers were issued with several short mags, and a single long one in the event of an emergency.
The R4 was officially accepted into the SADF as its general issue infantry rifle in 1982. It eventually completely replaced the R1 and has been well received by most soldiers. It is reliable and durable, and does not require constant maintenance. It is still in service today. A semi-automatic, civilian version has been offered as the Vektor LM4.
In the mid 1980s, a shortened version of the R4 based on the Galil SAR was introduced as the R5. Like the SAR, it has a 13" long barrel, shortened gas system and is otherwise the same. It has the same South African adaptations too, such as the longer polymer stock and enlarged front sight ring. The R5 is primarily used by the South African Navy, South African Air Force, South African Military Health Service, and South African Police Service. In the mid 1990s, a further shortened version was unvailed as the R6. It has a 11" long barrel and shorter gas system. Many say the R6 is a copy of the Galil MAR, but in reality it is more of a compacted R5. It is intended as a PDW, for use by vehicle crews and others needing a small assault rifle. It is in limited use with the SANDF today (SADF became SANDF in 1992). Both carbines are offered in a semi-automatic only format as the LM5 and LM6 respectively.
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(An LM5, a semi-auto version of the R5, with an extended flash hider)
To date, Lyttleton Engineering, now Denel Land Systems has built over 420,000 Galil type rifles for both the SADF and for export customers. While regular production of the R4 has ended, older rifles are still being supported and refurbished. Some are being "remanufactured" into a more modern version, with the addition of a railed handguard and more ergonomic pistol grip. So it appears that the R4 family will remain in service for at least a few more years.
Galil Variants:
Assault Rifle Machinegun (ARM)
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(A standard issue Galil ARM - this one a semi-only reweld by HillBilly Firearms)
The ARM was the standard Galil variant used by the IDF. It featured a 18" long barrel, lightweight folding bipod, and a square handguard. Early models had a carry handle, fixed bipod, no bayonet lug, and Teak wood handguard. Late models came with a bayonet lug, had a quick-detach bipod, no carry handle, and polymer handguard.
The ARM was used mostly by infantry and other frontline IDF units. It was intended as a multi-purpose weapon to be used as either an assault rifle or as a light machinegun. To this end, both 35 round and 50 round magazines were issued with it. Interestingly, the bipod could be used as a wire cutter, and acted as a mag shoot when folded into the handguard. Likewise, the handguard retainer/bipod bracket could be used to open bottles. Sources disagree if this was intentional or not, but damn if it doesn't make for an easy way to open a cold one. The carry handle was dropped on late models as it wasn't balanced, and mostly just got in the way.
A semi-automatic version of the ARM was imported in the early 1980s by Magnum Research as the IMI Model 372. It had a 18" barrel, bipod, wood handguard, and came both with and without a carry handle and bayonet lug. Later, Action Arms imported the Model 392, which had a 16" barrel, bipod, no bayonet lug, and came with either a wood or polymer handguard. Finally, a ban version was offered in the early 1990s as the Mod. 392s.
Century Arms did a small run of Golani Sporters in ARM configuration, complete with bipod and carry handle. All seem to have been sold to S.O.G. and were built on Caspian receivers.
Short Assault Rifle (SAR)
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(A standard SAR clone, with original wood handguard and extended flash hider)
The SAR was the carbine variant of the Galil. It had a compact 13" long barrel, 1.12" shortened gas system, and no prevision for a bipod or carry handle. Early SARs lacked a bayonet lug and had a Teak wood handguard, while later ones had a lug mounted at the rear of the gasblock and a handguard made of polymer.
The SAR was the standard issue rifle of the IDF Armor Corps for 40 years. It was mostly issued to vehicle crews and others needing a compact rifle. Most were kept as backup or defensive weapons. In this role, they were prized for their low maintenance and reliability. The SAR was used mainly with the shorter 35 round magazine.
No semi-auto version of the SAR was imported back in the 1980s. Likewise, Century never did a Golani with the SAR gas system. The only ones available in the USA are custom, small run builds from parts kits.
Assault Rifle (AR)
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(A Magnum Research Mod. 361, a semi-auto Galil AR)
The AR was the basic infantry Galil variant. It was nothing more than an ARM with an SAR type gasblock and handguard retainer. It lacked both the bipod and carry handle, and had a full length 18" barrel. As with the others, early versions did not have bayonet lugs and had wood handguards. Later, the handguard was changed to polymer, and a bayonet lug became optional.
The AR was never officially adopted by the IDF and very few were used by the Israelis. It was successful as an export weapon, especially to Columbia. Its semi-automatic only version was also very popular in the USA back in the 1980s. Most civilians preferred the AR configuration over the ARM, so much so that Magnum Research converted hundreds by removing the bipod assembly.
The Magnum Research Mod. 361 was the first semi-auto Galil to ever be offered to the American public, and it was of the AR configuration. It had a 18" barrel, bayonet lug (most of the time), and polymer handguard. The Action Arms version was designated the Mod. 386 and had a 16" barrel and no bayonet lug. A post ban variant was released in the early 1990s as the Mod. 386s and lacked a folding stock, threaded barrel, or flash hider (some early ones did have barrel threads, which were covered up by a perminantly attached muzzle nut). Finally, Mossberg imported some IMI receivers marked "Galil Sporter", and many of these have been used to complete surplus parts kits. Most have been built up into AR or ARM type rifles.
The standard Century Arms Golani Sporter was built in the AR configuration. The earliest rifles were actually marked "Galil Sporter" like the older Mossberg imports, but this was quickly changed when IWI objected. The name Golani was chosen to keep everyone happy. The first rifles lacked a bayonet lug, but did have a folding stock and threaded barrel with flash hider. Many shooters wanted the lug though, so most all later Golanis featured it. Early rifles were built on receivers from Ohio Rapid Fire (ORF), but many problems were reported. Most had to do with improper heat treating. So after a couple years, Century switched to receivers manufactured by Caspian Arms, which ended up having a much better reputation. On the otherhand, the ORF receivers were true milled from a forging, where as the Caspians were milled from an investment casting. The Golani is now out of production, and has been for a number of years.
Micro Assault Rifle (MAR)
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(A Micro Galil build by Hillbilly Firearms on a CNC Warrior receiver, and with a faux suppressor)
The MAR is the submachinegun sized variant of the Galil. It is the most radical departure from the original design and was first introduced in 1994. It has a standard barrel length of 8.4", however very early models had a 7.9" assembly and some late versions are offered with an 11.0" one instead. The firearm used SMG sights from the Mini Uzi, had lightening cuts in both the bolt carrier and receiver, and the stock henge was machined as part of the receiver itself to save on length. Early MARs had an all polymer stock, Galil pattern short handguard, and the standard Galil charging handle. Later models came with longer/more modern handguards, an aluminium alloy stock covered with polymer and rubber buttplate, and could be had with a left side charging handle as an optional feature.
It was designed with military airborn and police SWAT type users in mind, and has been in IDF service since 1997. The MAR is one of the most customizable Galils that IWI offers today.
There has never been a civilian legal semi-auto version of the MAR imported into the USA. The only ones available are custom small production runs, built from surplus parts. Recently, several complete kits have come onto the market, which came from demilled LEO trade in carbines. Micro receivers have been manufactured by both ORF (now Assault Weapons Of Ohio) and CNC Warrior.
Specifications:
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(Military/LEO Micro Galil Subcompact carbine)
Weight;
SAR: 3.75 kg (8.27 lb)
AR: 3.95 kg (8.7 lb)
ARM: 4.35 kg (9.6 lb)
MAR: 2.95 kg (6.5 lb)
Length;
SAR: 850 mm (33 in) stock extended / 614 mm (24.2 in) stock folded
AR/ARM: 987 mm (38.9 in) stock extended / 742 mm (29.2 in) stock folded
MAR: 690 mm (27.6 in) stock extended / 445 mm (17.8 in) stock folded
Barrel length;
SAR: 332 mm (13.1 in)
AR/ARM: 460 mm (18.1 in)
MAR: 195 mm (8.4 in)
Rate of fire - 630–750 rounds/min
Effective range of fire - 450 - 500 meters (AR/ARM) 300 meters (SAR) 150-200 meters (MAR
Muzzle velocity;
SAR: 900 m/s (2,953 ft/s)
AR/ARM: 950 m/s (3,116.8 ft/s)
MAR: ?
So there you have a brief history and mechanical overview of the Galil. I know it is a rifle most out there have heard of, but it has an interesting story behind it. For military users, its biggest drawback is its weight. This is something that is of minor concern to the American civilian shooter. It delivers the reliability and durability of the AK47, in a package chambered for the .223 round and with better sights and ergonomics. It is a pleasure to shoot and just a lot of fun.
This whole article started when i had a simple question, "which variant did the IDF use?" There isn't an easy to find and clear answer, so i started digging. In the end, i had a good bit of info and a greater appreciation for the firearm. Oh and it was the ARM mostly, with the SAR as a support role carbine. I was a bit amazed to discover the IDF did not really use the AR.
Anyway, hope you have enjoyed your read.
The official website for the Mishaco Youtube channel. Visit youtube.com/MishacoOBA for more.
Sunday, August 2, 2015
Modern Beretta Military Rifles
by Mishcao
When the name Beretta is heard, most immediately think of the company's successful pistol lines such as the 92FS. However, the oldest firearms maker in the world has also been producing rifles for the Italian military for centuries. This article will take a look at 3 such firearms from the last five decades.
Oh yeah and, all 3 are damn cool designs....
BM59 Battlerifle:
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(my Springfield assembled on P.Beretta receiver BM59 rifle with standard magazine and issue sling)
After the end of World War II, the Italian military adopted the American M1 Garand rifle, chambered for the 7.62x63mm (.30-06) cartridge. It replaced the old Carcano bolt action rifle and served Italy well during the early Cold War era. In 1949, the Italian government purchased the production rights for the Garand from the USA. It was sold the wartime Winchester production line, complete with tooling and blueprints. By 1953, Beretta had setup Garand production and had turned out its first rifles. Later, it would be joined by Breda and the two factories would manufacture M1s for the Italian military and for export throughout the decade.
The Garand was an advanced rifle when it was introduced in 1936. It was one of the best rifles during WWII, and continued to serve well during the Korean War. However, by the mid 1950s it was beginning to look dated and lacking in modern features. The USA ended up developing the M14, while many other NATO allies went with the FN FAL and later the HK G3. Italy however decided to simply update and modernize the Garand. It was a battle prooven design and this route would save the nation considerable time and money too. By 1957, efferts were underway and the program moved at a rapid pace.
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(standard Italian military BM59 MK I rifle, with select fire capability)
The new rifle was released in 1959, and was adopted that same year by the Italian Army and Navy as the BM59. Essentially, it was a Garand rechambered for the then new 7.62mm NATO cartridge, the receiver was altered to accept detachable box magazines, and the weapon was given select fire capabilities. It used a Garand type gas system, bolt, and iron sights. Various muzzle brakes were used on the BM59 over the years. The original version took a modified Garand bayonet, while later variants took the standard M16 M7 type. Early rifles had the same 22" long barrel as the Garand, and later ones were fitted with a 19" one, which both saved on length and weight. The standard BM59 magazine was made of heavy stamped steel and held 20 rounds. The receiver also allowed for the use of stripper clips to "top off" the magazine.
Other features that would eventually be integrated into the design included a grenade launcher sight with gas cut off, folding lightweight bipod, rubber recoil pad, flip-up shoulder rest, 90 degrees rotating rear sling swivel, and a fold-down winter trigger. In the end, Beretta was able to rather radically update and improve the M1 Garand, while not sacrificing reliability, durability, or accuracy.
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(the BM59 MK III Paratrooper's carbine)
The BM59 was offered in several variants and configurations. The basic model with semi-pistol grip stock was designated as the MK I. The MK II was the same firearm, but with a wooden stock which featured a full pistol grip (not unlike the M14E2's stock). The MK III Truppe Alpine was designed for mountain troops, and featured a wooden pistol grip and metal folding buttstock. There was also a Paratrooper version of the MK III, which had a short 17" barrel and quick detachable flash hider to further save on length. The MK IV was the LMG or SAW variant with a heavier barrel and bipod, and is sometimes known as the Nigerian model (though this name is rather misleading). There was also the BM59sl, which was the so-called "economy" model and was offered as an upgrade package to militaries with M1 Garands. Basically Beretta would convert the Garand to 7.62mm NATO and modify it to feed from detachable magazines. It would also usually add a compensator to the barrel, but most all BM59sl's were left as semi-automatic only firearms. It is also worth pointing out that many early BM59s were built with leftover Garand parts, including receivers.
The BM59 would remain the standard issue rifle for all branches of the Italian military for over three decades. It was also used by several other nations, including; Algeria, Bahrain, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, Morocco, and Somalia. Argentina would use it along side the FN FAL during the Falklands War too. It was manufactured under license in Indonesia by the Bandung Weapons Factory as the SP-1, and in Nigeria by the Defense Industries Corporation. The rifle saw combat throughout the Cold War period, especially in Africa and East Asia.
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(a preban import Italian BM62, lacking grenade launcher)
Several semi-automatic only, civilian legal versions were produced over the years. The first was the BM62 by Beretta, which was a sporterized version. It used the same receiver, barrel, and detachable magazines, but lacked a flash hider, bayonet lug, grenade sight, bipod, and had a sporter style buttplate. Also, it was most often shipped with short 5 or 10 round magazines, even though standard 20 rd BM59 mags would work in it. Later, Beretta released the BM69, which was a much closer copy of the original military rifle that restored most of its features such as the bipod and bayonet lug. In the 1980s, Springfield Armory Inc. began offering the BM59 (Sporter), which was assembled in the USA from surplus Italian parts. Early SA BM59s were assembled on P.Beretta marked receivers, while later ones were simply marked Springfield. These rifles will have all of the features of the military model, except of course the selector switch. Most were of the MK I configuration, but some MK III and IVs were produced as well. SA just built whatever they had parts for. Finally, many American companies have created BM59 clones, most of them based on rewelded and modified Garand receivers. These are found with wildly ranging quality levels (as would be expected).
Italian Service: 1959-1990 (as standard issue, and until 1998 in reserves)
Weight: 4.4 kg (9.70 lb)
Length: 1,095 mm (43.1 in)
Barrel length: 491 mm (19.3 in)
AR70/223 & AR70/90 Assault Rifles:
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(my Italian Beretta AR70/223s, upgraded with bayonet lug and grenade sights, with standard magazine and correct sling)
The AR70 family is not all that widely known or seen outside of Italy. It is however a very interesting firearm, with roots stretching back nearly as far as those of the American M16. In 1963, Beretta partnered with SiG of Switzerland to develop an assault rifle to fire the then very new .223 Rem cartridge. The two companies worked on what would become known as the SG530, which used both a roller delayed bolt group and long-stroke gas piston. Beretta felt the roller system was unneccessary, where as SiG was very committed to it. This dispute became so problematic, that the partnership was dissolved after five years.
SiG kept working on the SG530 and Beretta went its own way in 1968. What it eventually came up with was the AR70. First unvailed in 1972, the AR70 combined the long-stroke gas piston system, with a dual lugged rotating bolt. You might recognize this as the same system that the Russians came up with for the AK47 and you would be right. However, the AR70 is not at all an AK clone. It has two receiver halves, with two push pins; just as with the AR15. It also borrowed many design elements from the Armalite AR18 such as being made of stamped and welded steel, spring loaded dustcover behind the bolt, and a very similar sight arrangement. The front was a post type sight located on the gasblock, and the rear had an L type flip aperture with two range settings and windage knob. The AR70 had front and rear fold up grenade sights, a long 4 slotted flash hider, folding light bipod (very similar to the one found on the BM59), and took a standard M16 M7 type bayonet. It fed from heavy stamped steel magazines, which were based on the AK pattern. All in all, it was very modern for its day, lightweight, and had a very reliable operating system which was also very easy to field strip for cleaning/maintenance.
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(the original Italian AR70/223 assault rifle)
The original AR70 was released in 3 main variants. The AR70/223 had a 18" long barrel and polymer fixed buttstock. The SC70/223 was the same firearm, but fitted with a polymer coated metal folding stock. Finally, the SCS70/223 was a carbine version with a 14.5" barrel and folding stock. All variants had a chromelined bore with a 1 in 12 twist rate to fire the standard 55g bullet then in common use.
The AR70/223 was the standard issue firearm for the Italian Special Forces during the 1970s and 1980s. It was also purchased by the Security Forces branch of the Italian Air Force, and used by some in the Italian Navy. Beretta found some overseas customers for the AR70/223 such as the militaries of Jordan, Indonesia, Egypt, and Malaysia. In all, 14 countries purchased the AR70/223 in some quantity. Its modest success on the globel market can be attributed to the fact that when it was released, there were very few fully developed .223 caliber assault rifles available. It also helped that the AR70/223 was relatively inexpensive and was easy to train standard soldiers how to use and maintain. All that said, the bulk of the Italian military did not adopt the rifle, and instead continued to use the venerable BM59.
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(the product improved AR70/90 pictured with optional folding stock assembly)
Then in 1985, the Italian Army decided it was time to retire its battlerifle and select a modern assault rifle which fired the standard 5.56mm NATO cartridge. Trials were held in the late 1980s, and Beretta submitted an upgraded version of the AR70. The new model fed from standard M16/NATO magazines, had a reshaped and strengthened upper receiver, 3 position gas regulator, ambidextrous selector and mag release, fold down trigger guard for use with gloves, and a weaver rail with detachable carry handle as standard features. The selector had an additional option for 3 round burst, as well as fully automatic. Also, the bore's twist rate was changed to 1 in 7 to better work with modern 62g projectiles. This new model eventually won the military trials in 1990, and was adopted as the AR70/90. It became standard issue for the Italian Army, Navy, and Air Force. In 1992, the military ordered 52,400 rifles from Beretta, with an additional 40,000 in 1996. It took until the end of the decade to fully phase out the BM59 and replace it with the new rifle. As with the AR70/223, the new model had 3 main variants: the fixed stock AR70/90, folding stock SC70/90, and the 14.5" barreled carbine as the SCP70/90. The Italian military would eventually acquire 105,000 AR70/90 rifles and 15,000 SCP70/90 carbines. It received its most recent and final shipment in 2008, which consisted of 500 carbines.
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(the SCP70/90 "Special Forces" carbine)
The AR70/90 is still in widespread use today. There are even some old AR70/223s around, which are mostly used for training and for display in parades. Also, the Air Force Security Force retains many SC70/223 folders, which are issued to airbase guards and support crews. The series has prooven durable and reliable, in such places as Afghanistan and Iraq. On the otherhand, while the AR70/223 was modern for the 1970s, by the time the AR70/90 was adopted in the 1990s, the design was already looking conservative (if not exactly obsolete). It was made of steel, with polymer only found in the furniture at a time when other manufacturers were going to bulllpups and/or designs with entire polymer receivers. The AR70/90 was both heavier and longer than most of its competition too. All this meant that in the end, the Italian military was the only user to adopt it for general issue. So ironically, the AR70/223 could be said to have actually been more successful than the AR70/90.
Going back to the beginning for a moment, it is interesting to revisit what SiG ultimately did. The SG530 was abandoned in the early 1970s in favour of the SG540. SiG finally discovered that Beretta had been right all along regarding the roller system, and it too dropped it, and like Beretta it used an AK style two lug rotating bolt in the SG540. The SG540 was evolved into the SG550, which became the new standard issue rifle in the Swiss military under the designation STGW.90 in 1990. Which was the same year that Beretta's own design finally went into general issue as well. In otherwords, both the AR70/90 and STGW.90 can be said to have had a development process which lasted nearly 30 years.
Beginning in the early 1980s, Beretta started to offer the AR70/223s, a semi-automatic only, civilian legal version of the original design. It was very close to its military counter part, though most examples lacked a bayonet lug and grenade sights. It shipped with a short 8 round range mag, but standard military ones would fit without issue. Later, the AR70/90s was released which again was very close to the military version, but lacked the bayonet lug as well as the flash hider due to changing gun ownership laws during the 1990s.
Somewhere between 500 and 2,000 AR70/223 Sporters were imported into the USA between 1985 and 1989. Others have been assembled after the ban using Numrich parts kits and USA made 80% receiver blanks.
Italian Service: AR70/223, 1972-1992 (limited issue), AR70/90, 1990-present day (standard issue)
Weight: 3.99 kg (8.80 lb) (varies slightly)
Length: 998 mm (39.3 in)
908 mm (35.8 in) (SCS & SCP carbines with stock deployed)
Barrel length: 450 mm (18.0 in) (standard rifle)
360mm (14.5 in) (SCS & SCP carbines)
ARX160 Modular Assault Rifle:
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my Beretta ARX100 with standard magazine and QD sling)
The ARX160 is a spin off from the Soldato Futuro program of the early 21th Century. It is part of an initiative to modernize the Italian military. It is an advanced modular assault rifle, constructed mostly from high-impact polymer. It is primarily chambered for the 5.56mm NATO cartridge, however versions in 7.62x39mm have been produced for certain customers. There are plans for additional calibers such as .300 Blackout, 6.8mm SPC, and 5.45x39mm. The ARX160 has a quick change barrel, which is cold hammer forged and chromelined, with a 1 in 7 twist rate. The standard barrel is 16" long with a lightweight profile. Beretta also offers a compact 12" barrel, extended 20", and heavier 16" for use as a DMR. It has an A2 type flash hider, on 1/2x28 threading. The weapon uses a short-stroke gas piston system, with AR15 style rotating bolt. The system is designed in such a way that felt recoil is more spread out and therefore minimized. The gas valve is adjustable with 2 settings.
The ARX160 is fully ambidextrous, including the mag release, safety selector, bolt release, and sling swivels. The charging handle can be easily flipped to either side without tools, and without disassembling the weapon. Most uniquely though, the weapon can be configured to eject from either side by using a bullet tip to activate an internal switch. The weapon feeds from standard AR15/M16 type magazines, and ships with 30 rounders made of stamped steel.
It features a long top rail, two shorter side rails, and a short bottom section. behind this section is a separate mount for the GLX160 single shot 40mm grenade launcher. The stock is adjustable with 4 positions and folds to the right side. The pistol grip is A2 style, with a storage compartment for a cleaning kit inside. All ARX firearms come standard with polymer backup sights that are adjustable from 100 to 600 meters, and that are quickdetachable with the press of a bullet tip.
Beretta released the ARX160 commercially in 2008, and shortly there after shipped 800 examples to the Italian military for testing and for use by Special Forces. In 2010, a slightly updated and improved version of the rifle began to see widespread use, with an order for 12,000 units placed by the Italian government. Then in 2012, it was announced that the ARX160 was officially to replace the AR70/90 as the military's standard issue rifle. Today, the Italian Army, Navy, and Air Force have a combined total of 30,000 ARX160s in their inventories, with plans to acquire more. Thus the AR70/90 is being phased out of frontline service.
The ARX160 has been adopted by the Egyptian Navy and Special Forces. Special Forces units of Kazakhstan issue a version chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, and the Albanian Army has purchased several thousand rifles. The Mexican Federal Police have ordered 6,000 units from Italy. In addition, India, France, Argentina, and the USA have all tested Beretta's new design. It is a new comer to the market, and it is extremely difficult to overcome the M16/M4's popularity, but the ARX160 is at least receiving a lot of attention and more than a few favourable reviews. Only time will tell how successful it will become.
Beretta offers a semi-automatic only, civilian version designated as the ARX100. It mirrors its select-fire military counterpart in most every way. It is manufactured in the Beretta-USA factory to avoid the 1989 ban on the importation of "non-sporting "assault rifles," and to insure it has enough American parts to satisfy 922(r) requirements. It ships with 1 high-cap magazine, military QD sling, and in a factory nylon soft case.
Italian Service: 2012-present (standard issue)
Weight: 3.1 kg (6.8 lb) (with standard barrel)
3.0 kg (6.6 lb) (with short SF barrel)
Length: 755 mm (29.72 in) (stock exteneded w. 302 mm barrel)
680 mm (26.77 in) (stock collapsed w. 302 mm barrel)
580 mm (22.83 in) (stock folded w. 302 mm barrel)
920 mm (36.22 in) (stock exteneded w. 406 mm barrel)
820 mm (32.28 in) (stock collapsed w. 406 mm barrel)
755 mm (29.72 in) (stock folded w. 406 mm barrel)
Barrel length: 302 mm (11.89 in)
406 mm (15.98 in)
My thoughts on each of the rifles:
BM59; It is an interesting and well manufactured Garand variant. It is a bit lighter and shorter than the original, and thus handier to drag around. Mine has a nice trigger and is just a solid feeling gun. It is also very pleasant to fire. If i had to say anything against it, it might be that the magazines fit rather tight and have to be tilted into the magwell at a more or less exact angle. Also, the bipod does make the handguard a bit wide and bulky when folded up. These are minor issues, and all in all the BM59 has the positive attributes of the Garand, plus the switch from the en-bloc clip system to detachable magazines is a very welcome one.
I like the Springfield model, at least the ones built on Beretta marked receivers. I know they are assembled in the USA, but I like that they have all of the military features unlike the BM62. It is interesting to compare the BM59 to the M14/M1A too. The Beretta does feel sturdier, but also this means additional weight. I have taken this BM59 to the range twice now, and I can say it was a lot of fun, probably more so than my Springfield M1A honestly. It had less felt recoil and just seemed more like my M1 Garand.
AR70/223s; This is a very unique design that harkens back to the early days of the assault rifle and the .223 cartridge. I really like how it shares so much with the SiG SG550 and Armalite AR180; two of my all-time favorite .223 cal rifles (though for very different reasons). Mine has a very nice trigger and smooth bolt. It is easy to field strip and load mags into. It is not too long and is of average/medium weight. It has something of the Colt M16A1/SP1 in its spirite too. I do wish it took standard AR15/M16 magazines so I could use the piles I already have. Its mags are very solid feeling, but also very pricy and difficult to find. As with the BM59, I do find that the bipod does detract slightly from the feel of the handguard but at least it does not add much weight.
Some have said that as many as 2,000 AR70/223s were imported backin the 1980s. Based on how rarely they come up for sale and serial numbers, this number seems high to me. Others put the number at 500, which on the other hand, seems a bit low. Either way, it is a nifty piece of firearms history and fits perfectly in my Italian collection. Today, I will be taking this rifle out for its first range session. It will be interesting to see if it handles as nicely as a SIG SG55x.
ARX100; There is a lot I could say regarding this firearm. I will begin by saying how surprised I was when i discovered I absolutely loved it. I picked up my example last Christmas, and did so mostly because I found one NIB for under $1,400. Plus I was bored and wanted something new to play around with. Beretta has always made good products, and i planned to test it out a bit, get to know it, and then sell it down the line. What happened instead was that the ARX has become one of my top-favorite .223 rifles to take to the range. Please remember I also own or have owned many quality .223s such as the HK MR556A1, Bushmaster ACR, SIG SIG551-A1, FN SCAR, and several Colt AR15s. Also the Radom Archer, which is another top-favorite but that is a story for another day.
Alright, so what is it about the ARX I like so much? I know on paper that while it doesn't look bad, it also doesn't really stand out from the crowd. First off, it is a couple hundred bucks cheaper than the ACR, and nearly $1k less than either the MR556A1 or SCAR 16s. Since it is Beretta, it is well constructed from quality parts, including a great barrel. Second, it comes from the factory with a few freebees such as a decent set of BUIS, a really good sling, and a good soft case. Next, i liked the ergonomics. The controls are well laid out, the pistol grip comfortable, stock solid, and the trigger (on mine at least) is actually quite good (better than the one in my old SCAR or Tavor for sure). One ergonomic issue I did have was when charging the weapon, I would bang my knuckle against the brass deflector when the handle was rotated to the left side. The problem went away though when i swapped the handle to the right side. Finally, I found the quick change barrel system really handy for cleaning the bore out, and also just plain nifty. If Beretta offers different barrels or a caliber conversion kit, I will purchase them.
So already liking the rifle, I took it to the range right after Christmas; and it was there that i began to love it. Beretta's claims that the ARX's gas system reduces felt recoil are accurate. Sure a fully loaded AR15 that weighs 11 lbs has no real recoil, but the ARX is only 7 lbs and mostly polymer. So for it to have no real recoil is pretty impressive. When your heaviest metal piece is your bolt group, usually its bouncing back and forth ends up producing a see-saw effect. Sorry, its hard to explain. A good example of this can be found with the HK G36/SL8 or UMP/USC. Both firearms have more felt recoil than they really ought to, all due to a massive steel bolt bouncing around in a polymer receiver shell. So to me, the ARX feels nice when it is fired.
If i had to criticize anything with the ARX, it would be its buttstock. I wish it had a rubber coated buttplate and a different style of curve to it. For some it might also be a bit short, but since I am 5'6" it is just fine for me personally. Likewise, it would be nice if the charging handle were a bit larger, however I understand why it is the size it is so that it can be swapped from side to side without disassembling the weapon. Anyway, it is still better than that of the AR15. The factory BUIS do look a bit comically large, but are totally usable. Besides, most people put their own sights on when they customize their rifles. In the end, it is difficult to explain why the ARX is so fun. A person just has to experience it for themselves to understand what Beretta has done here, and done it for less money than most of the competition. I sincerely hope this rifle catches on and the manufacturer begins to offer parts and kits for it.
I will be taking mine to the range again this afternoon. It reminds me a lot of the ACR Enhanced and SCAR 16s, but for various reasons I just like it better. Oh yeah, and so far it has been 100% reliable, even with Tulammo steel cased 55g and 62g, which is about the weakest and cheapest .223 ammo on the market. The only other rifles of mine that eat that stuff reliably are the Radom Archer and HK MR556A1. It jammed up the Tavor, AUG A3, Colt 6920, S&W M&P-15, and ACR. It really is bad ammo and not the fault of those firearms that they wouldn't cycle it.
When the name Beretta is heard, most immediately think of the company's successful pistol lines such as the 92FS. However, the oldest firearms maker in the world has also been producing rifles for the Italian military for centuries. This article will take a look at 3 such firearms from the last five decades.
Oh yeah and, all 3 are damn cool designs....
BM59 Battlerifle:
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(my Springfield assembled on P.Beretta receiver BM59 rifle with standard magazine and issue sling)
After the end of World War II, the Italian military adopted the American M1 Garand rifle, chambered for the 7.62x63mm (.30-06) cartridge. It replaced the old Carcano bolt action rifle and served Italy well during the early Cold War era. In 1949, the Italian government purchased the production rights for the Garand from the USA. It was sold the wartime Winchester production line, complete with tooling and blueprints. By 1953, Beretta had setup Garand production and had turned out its first rifles. Later, it would be joined by Breda and the two factories would manufacture M1s for the Italian military and for export throughout the decade.
The Garand was an advanced rifle when it was introduced in 1936. It was one of the best rifles during WWII, and continued to serve well during the Korean War. However, by the mid 1950s it was beginning to look dated and lacking in modern features. The USA ended up developing the M14, while many other NATO allies went with the FN FAL and later the HK G3. Italy however decided to simply update and modernize the Garand. It was a battle prooven design and this route would save the nation considerable time and money too. By 1957, efferts were underway and the program moved at a rapid pace.
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(standard Italian military BM59 MK I rifle, with select fire capability)
The new rifle was released in 1959, and was adopted that same year by the Italian Army and Navy as the BM59. Essentially, it was a Garand rechambered for the then new 7.62mm NATO cartridge, the receiver was altered to accept detachable box magazines, and the weapon was given select fire capabilities. It used a Garand type gas system, bolt, and iron sights. Various muzzle brakes were used on the BM59 over the years. The original version took a modified Garand bayonet, while later variants took the standard M16 M7 type. Early rifles had the same 22" long barrel as the Garand, and later ones were fitted with a 19" one, which both saved on length and weight. The standard BM59 magazine was made of heavy stamped steel and held 20 rounds. The receiver also allowed for the use of stripper clips to "top off" the magazine.
Other features that would eventually be integrated into the design included a grenade launcher sight with gas cut off, folding lightweight bipod, rubber recoil pad, flip-up shoulder rest, 90 degrees rotating rear sling swivel, and a fold-down winter trigger. In the end, Beretta was able to rather radically update and improve the M1 Garand, while not sacrificing reliability, durability, or accuracy.
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(the BM59 MK III Paratrooper's carbine)
The BM59 was offered in several variants and configurations. The basic model with semi-pistol grip stock was designated as the MK I. The MK II was the same firearm, but with a wooden stock which featured a full pistol grip (not unlike the M14E2's stock). The MK III Truppe Alpine was designed for mountain troops, and featured a wooden pistol grip and metal folding buttstock. There was also a Paratrooper version of the MK III, which had a short 17" barrel and quick detachable flash hider to further save on length. The MK IV was the LMG or SAW variant with a heavier barrel and bipod, and is sometimes known as the Nigerian model (though this name is rather misleading). There was also the BM59sl, which was the so-called "economy" model and was offered as an upgrade package to militaries with M1 Garands. Basically Beretta would convert the Garand to 7.62mm NATO and modify it to feed from detachable magazines. It would also usually add a compensator to the barrel, but most all BM59sl's were left as semi-automatic only firearms. It is also worth pointing out that many early BM59s were built with leftover Garand parts, including receivers.
The BM59 would remain the standard issue rifle for all branches of the Italian military for over three decades. It was also used by several other nations, including; Algeria, Bahrain, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, Morocco, and Somalia. Argentina would use it along side the FN FAL during the Falklands War too. It was manufactured under license in Indonesia by the Bandung Weapons Factory as the SP-1, and in Nigeria by the Defense Industries Corporation. The rifle saw combat throughout the Cold War period, especially in Africa and East Asia.
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(a preban import Italian BM62, lacking grenade launcher)
Several semi-automatic only, civilian legal versions were produced over the years. The first was the BM62 by Beretta, which was a sporterized version. It used the same receiver, barrel, and detachable magazines, but lacked a flash hider, bayonet lug, grenade sight, bipod, and had a sporter style buttplate. Also, it was most often shipped with short 5 or 10 round magazines, even though standard 20 rd BM59 mags would work in it. Later, Beretta released the BM69, which was a much closer copy of the original military rifle that restored most of its features such as the bipod and bayonet lug. In the 1980s, Springfield Armory Inc. began offering the BM59 (Sporter), which was assembled in the USA from surplus Italian parts. Early SA BM59s were assembled on P.Beretta marked receivers, while later ones were simply marked Springfield. These rifles will have all of the features of the military model, except of course the selector switch. Most were of the MK I configuration, but some MK III and IVs were produced as well. SA just built whatever they had parts for. Finally, many American companies have created BM59 clones, most of them based on rewelded and modified Garand receivers. These are found with wildly ranging quality levels (as would be expected).
Italian Service: 1959-1990 (as standard issue, and until 1998 in reserves)
Weight: 4.4 kg (9.70 lb)
Length: 1,095 mm (43.1 in)
Barrel length: 491 mm (19.3 in)
AR70/223 & AR70/90 Assault Rifles:
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(my Italian Beretta AR70/223s, upgraded with bayonet lug and grenade sights, with standard magazine and correct sling)
The AR70 family is not all that widely known or seen outside of Italy. It is however a very interesting firearm, with roots stretching back nearly as far as those of the American M16. In 1963, Beretta partnered with SiG of Switzerland to develop an assault rifle to fire the then very new .223 Rem cartridge. The two companies worked on what would become known as the SG530, which used both a roller delayed bolt group and long-stroke gas piston. Beretta felt the roller system was unneccessary, where as SiG was very committed to it. This dispute became so problematic, that the partnership was dissolved after five years.
SiG kept working on the SG530 and Beretta went its own way in 1968. What it eventually came up with was the AR70. First unvailed in 1972, the AR70 combined the long-stroke gas piston system, with a dual lugged rotating bolt. You might recognize this as the same system that the Russians came up with for the AK47 and you would be right. However, the AR70 is not at all an AK clone. It has two receiver halves, with two push pins; just as with the AR15. It also borrowed many design elements from the Armalite AR18 such as being made of stamped and welded steel, spring loaded dustcover behind the bolt, and a very similar sight arrangement. The front was a post type sight located on the gasblock, and the rear had an L type flip aperture with two range settings and windage knob. The AR70 had front and rear fold up grenade sights, a long 4 slotted flash hider, folding light bipod (very similar to the one found on the BM59), and took a standard M16 M7 type bayonet. It fed from heavy stamped steel magazines, which were based on the AK pattern. All in all, it was very modern for its day, lightweight, and had a very reliable operating system which was also very easy to field strip for cleaning/maintenance.
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(the original Italian AR70/223 assault rifle)
The original AR70 was released in 3 main variants. The AR70/223 had a 18" long barrel and polymer fixed buttstock. The SC70/223 was the same firearm, but fitted with a polymer coated metal folding stock. Finally, the SCS70/223 was a carbine version with a 14.5" barrel and folding stock. All variants had a chromelined bore with a 1 in 12 twist rate to fire the standard 55g bullet then in common use.
The AR70/223 was the standard issue firearm for the Italian Special Forces during the 1970s and 1980s. It was also purchased by the Security Forces branch of the Italian Air Force, and used by some in the Italian Navy. Beretta found some overseas customers for the AR70/223 such as the militaries of Jordan, Indonesia, Egypt, and Malaysia. In all, 14 countries purchased the AR70/223 in some quantity. Its modest success on the globel market can be attributed to the fact that when it was released, there were very few fully developed .223 caliber assault rifles available. It also helped that the AR70/223 was relatively inexpensive and was easy to train standard soldiers how to use and maintain. All that said, the bulk of the Italian military did not adopt the rifle, and instead continued to use the venerable BM59.
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(the product improved AR70/90 pictured with optional folding stock assembly)
Then in 1985, the Italian Army decided it was time to retire its battlerifle and select a modern assault rifle which fired the standard 5.56mm NATO cartridge. Trials were held in the late 1980s, and Beretta submitted an upgraded version of the AR70. The new model fed from standard M16/NATO magazines, had a reshaped and strengthened upper receiver, 3 position gas regulator, ambidextrous selector and mag release, fold down trigger guard for use with gloves, and a weaver rail with detachable carry handle as standard features. The selector had an additional option for 3 round burst, as well as fully automatic. Also, the bore's twist rate was changed to 1 in 7 to better work with modern 62g projectiles. This new model eventually won the military trials in 1990, and was adopted as the AR70/90. It became standard issue for the Italian Army, Navy, and Air Force. In 1992, the military ordered 52,400 rifles from Beretta, with an additional 40,000 in 1996. It took until the end of the decade to fully phase out the BM59 and replace it with the new rifle. As with the AR70/223, the new model had 3 main variants: the fixed stock AR70/90, folding stock SC70/90, and the 14.5" barreled carbine as the SCP70/90. The Italian military would eventually acquire 105,000 AR70/90 rifles and 15,000 SCP70/90 carbines. It received its most recent and final shipment in 2008, which consisted of 500 carbines.
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(the SCP70/90 "Special Forces" carbine)
The AR70/90 is still in widespread use today. There are even some old AR70/223s around, which are mostly used for training and for display in parades. Also, the Air Force Security Force retains many SC70/223 folders, which are issued to airbase guards and support crews. The series has prooven durable and reliable, in such places as Afghanistan and Iraq. On the otherhand, while the AR70/223 was modern for the 1970s, by the time the AR70/90 was adopted in the 1990s, the design was already looking conservative (if not exactly obsolete). It was made of steel, with polymer only found in the furniture at a time when other manufacturers were going to bulllpups and/or designs with entire polymer receivers. The AR70/90 was both heavier and longer than most of its competition too. All this meant that in the end, the Italian military was the only user to adopt it for general issue. So ironically, the AR70/223 could be said to have actually been more successful than the AR70/90.
Going back to the beginning for a moment, it is interesting to revisit what SiG ultimately did. The SG530 was abandoned in the early 1970s in favour of the SG540. SiG finally discovered that Beretta had been right all along regarding the roller system, and it too dropped it, and like Beretta it used an AK style two lug rotating bolt in the SG540. The SG540 was evolved into the SG550, which became the new standard issue rifle in the Swiss military under the designation STGW.90 in 1990. Which was the same year that Beretta's own design finally went into general issue as well. In otherwords, both the AR70/90 and STGW.90 can be said to have had a development process which lasted nearly 30 years.
Beginning in the early 1980s, Beretta started to offer the AR70/223s, a semi-automatic only, civilian legal version of the original design. It was very close to its military counter part, though most examples lacked a bayonet lug and grenade sights. It shipped with a short 8 round range mag, but standard military ones would fit without issue. Later, the AR70/90s was released which again was very close to the military version, but lacked the bayonet lug as well as the flash hider due to changing gun ownership laws during the 1990s.
Somewhere between 500 and 2,000 AR70/223 Sporters were imported into the USA between 1985 and 1989. Others have been assembled after the ban using Numrich parts kits and USA made 80% receiver blanks.
Italian Service: AR70/223, 1972-1992 (limited issue), AR70/90, 1990-present day (standard issue)
Weight: 3.99 kg (8.80 lb) (varies slightly)
Length: 998 mm (39.3 in)
908 mm (35.8 in) (SCS & SCP carbines with stock deployed)
Barrel length: 450 mm (18.0 in) (standard rifle)
360mm (14.5 in) (SCS & SCP carbines)
ARX160 Modular Assault Rifle:
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my Beretta ARX100 with standard magazine and QD sling)
The ARX160 is a spin off from the Soldato Futuro program of the early 21th Century. It is part of an initiative to modernize the Italian military. It is an advanced modular assault rifle, constructed mostly from high-impact polymer. It is primarily chambered for the 5.56mm NATO cartridge, however versions in 7.62x39mm have been produced for certain customers. There are plans for additional calibers such as .300 Blackout, 6.8mm SPC, and 5.45x39mm. The ARX160 has a quick change barrel, which is cold hammer forged and chromelined, with a 1 in 7 twist rate. The standard barrel is 16" long with a lightweight profile. Beretta also offers a compact 12" barrel, extended 20", and heavier 16" for use as a DMR. It has an A2 type flash hider, on 1/2x28 threading. The weapon uses a short-stroke gas piston system, with AR15 style rotating bolt. The system is designed in such a way that felt recoil is more spread out and therefore minimized. The gas valve is adjustable with 2 settings.
The ARX160 is fully ambidextrous, including the mag release, safety selector, bolt release, and sling swivels. The charging handle can be easily flipped to either side without tools, and without disassembling the weapon. Most uniquely though, the weapon can be configured to eject from either side by using a bullet tip to activate an internal switch. The weapon feeds from standard AR15/M16 type magazines, and ships with 30 rounders made of stamped steel.
It features a long top rail, two shorter side rails, and a short bottom section. behind this section is a separate mount for the GLX160 single shot 40mm grenade launcher. The stock is adjustable with 4 positions and folds to the right side. The pistol grip is A2 style, with a storage compartment for a cleaning kit inside. All ARX firearms come standard with polymer backup sights that are adjustable from 100 to 600 meters, and that are quickdetachable with the press of a bullet tip.
Beretta released the ARX160 commercially in 2008, and shortly there after shipped 800 examples to the Italian military for testing and for use by Special Forces. In 2010, a slightly updated and improved version of the rifle began to see widespread use, with an order for 12,000 units placed by the Italian government. Then in 2012, it was announced that the ARX160 was officially to replace the AR70/90 as the military's standard issue rifle. Today, the Italian Army, Navy, and Air Force have a combined total of 30,000 ARX160s in their inventories, with plans to acquire more. Thus the AR70/90 is being phased out of frontline service.
The ARX160 has been adopted by the Egyptian Navy and Special Forces. Special Forces units of Kazakhstan issue a version chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, and the Albanian Army has purchased several thousand rifles. The Mexican Federal Police have ordered 6,000 units from Italy. In addition, India, France, Argentina, and the USA have all tested Beretta's new design. It is a new comer to the market, and it is extremely difficult to overcome the M16/M4's popularity, but the ARX160 is at least receiving a lot of attention and more than a few favourable reviews. Only time will tell how successful it will become.
Beretta offers a semi-automatic only, civilian version designated as the ARX100. It mirrors its select-fire military counterpart in most every way. It is manufactured in the Beretta-USA factory to avoid the 1989 ban on the importation of "non-sporting "assault rifles," and to insure it has enough American parts to satisfy 922(r) requirements. It ships with 1 high-cap magazine, military QD sling, and in a factory nylon soft case.
Italian Service: 2012-present (standard issue)
Weight: 3.1 kg (6.8 lb) (with standard barrel)
3.0 kg (6.6 lb) (with short SF barrel)
Length: 755 mm (29.72 in) (stock exteneded w. 302 mm barrel)
680 mm (26.77 in) (stock collapsed w. 302 mm barrel)
580 mm (22.83 in) (stock folded w. 302 mm barrel)
920 mm (36.22 in) (stock exteneded w. 406 mm barrel)
820 mm (32.28 in) (stock collapsed w. 406 mm barrel)
755 mm (29.72 in) (stock folded w. 406 mm barrel)
Barrel length: 302 mm (11.89 in)
406 mm (15.98 in)
My thoughts on each of the rifles:
BM59; It is an interesting and well manufactured Garand variant. It is a bit lighter and shorter than the original, and thus handier to drag around. Mine has a nice trigger and is just a solid feeling gun. It is also very pleasant to fire. If i had to say anything against it, it might be that the magazines fit rather tight and have to be tilted into the magwell at a more or less exact angle. Also, the bipod does make the handguard a bit wide and bulky when folded up. These are minor issues, and all in all the BM59 has the positive attributes of the Garand, plus the switch from the en-bloc clip system to detachable magazines is a very welcome one.
I like the Springfield model, at least the ones built on Beretta marked receivers. I know they are assembled in the USA, but I like that they have all of the military features unlike the BM62. It is interesting to compare the BM59 to the M14/M1A too. The Beretta does feel sturdier, but also this means additional weight. I have taken this BM59 to the range twice now, and I can say it was a lot of fun, probably more so than my Springfield M1A honestly. It had less felt recoil and just seemed more like my M1 Garand.
AR70/223s; This is a very unique design that harkens back to the early days of the assault rifle and the .223 cartridge. I really like how it shares so much with the SiG SG550 and Armalite AR180; two of my all-time favorite .223 cal rifles (though for very different reasons). Mine has a very nice trigger and smooth bolt. It is easy to field strip and load mags into. It is not too long and is of average/medium weight. It has something of the Colt M16A1/SP1 in its spirite too. I do wish it took standard AR15/M16 magazines so I could use the piles I already have. Its mags are very solid feeling, but also very pricy and difficult to find. As with the BM59, I do find that the bipod does detract slightly from the feel of the handguard but at least it does not add much weight.
Some have said that as many as 2,000 AR70/223s were imported backin the 1980s. Based on how rarely they come up for sale and serial numbers, this number seems high to me. Others put the number at 500, which on the other hand, seems a bit low. Either way, it is a nifty piece of firearms history and fits perfectly in my Italian collection. Today, I will be taking this rifle out for its first range session. It will be interesting to see if it handles as nicely as a SIG SG55x.
ARX100; There is a lot I could say regarding this firearm. I will begin by saying how surprised I was when i discovered I absolutely loved it. I picked up my example last Christmas, and did so mostly because I found one NIB for under $1,400. Plus I was bored and wanted something new to play around with. Beretta has always made good products, and i planned to test it out a bit, get to know it, and then sell it down the line. What happened instead was that the ARX has become one of my top-favorite .223 rifles to take to the range. Please remember I also own or have owned many quality .223s such as the HK MR556A1, Bushmaster ACR, SIG SIG551-A1, FN SCAR, and several Colt AR15s. Also the Radom Archer, which is another top-favorite but that is a story for another day.
Alright, so what is it about the ARX I like so much? I know on paper that while it doesn't look bad, it also doesn't really stand out from the crowd. First off, it is a couple hundred bucks cheaper than the ACR, and nearly $1k less than either the MR556A1 or SCAR 16s. Since it is Beretta, it is well constructed from quality parts, including a great barrel. Second, it comes from the factory with a few freebees such as a decent set of BUIS, a really good sling, and a good soft case. Next, i liked the ergonomics. The controls are well laid out, the pistol grip comfortable, stock solid, and the trigger (on mine at least) is actually quite good (better than the one in my old SCAR or Tavor for sure). One ergonomic issue I did have was when charging the weapon, I would bang my knuckle against the brass deflector when the handle was rotated to the left side. The problem went away though when i swapped the handle to the right side. Finally, I found the quick change barrel system really handy for cleaning the bore out, and also just plain nifty. If Beretta offers different barrels or a caliber conversion kit, I will purchase them.
So already liking the rifle, I took it to the range right after Christmas; and it was there that i began to love it. Beretta's claims that the ARX's gas system reduces felt recoil are accurate. Sure a fully loaded AR15 that weighs 11 lbs has no real recoil, but the ARX is only 7 lbs and mostly polymer. So for it to have no real recoil is pretty impressive. When your heaviest metal piece is your bolt group, usually its bouncing back and forth ends up producing a see-saw effect. Sorry, its hard to explain. A good example of this can be found with the HK G36/SL8 or UMP/USC. Both firearms have more felt recoil than they really ought to, all due to a massive steel bolt bouncing around in a polymer receiver shell. So to me, the ARX feels nice when it is fired.
If i had to criticize anything with the ARX, it would be its buttstock. I wish it had a rubber coated buttplate and a different style of curve to it. For some it might also be a bit short, but since I am 5'6" it is just fine for me personally. Likewise, it would be nice if the charging handle were a bit larger, however I understand why it is the size it is so that it can be swapped from side to side without disassembling the weapon. Anyway, it is still better than that of the AR15. The factory BUIS do look a bit comically large, but are totally usable. Besides, most people put their own sights on when they customize their rifles. In the end, it is difficult to explain why the ARX is so fun. A person just has to experience it for themselves to understand what Beretta has done here, and done it for less money than most of the competition. I sincerely hope this rifle catches on and the manufacturer begins to offer parts and kits for it.
I will be taking mine to the range again this afternoon. It reminds me a lot of the ACR Enhanced and SCAR 16s, but for various reasons I just like it better. Oh yeah, and so far it has been 100% reliable, even with Tulammo steel cased 55g and 62g, which is about the weakest and cheapest .223 ammo on the market. The only other rifles of mine that eat that stuff reliably are the Radom Archer and HK MR556A1. It jammed up the Tavor, AUG A3, Colt 6920, S&W M&P-15, and ACR. It really is bad ammo and not the fault of those firearms that they wouldn't cycle it.
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