[SHOT 2025] DSA x H&R Collab On T-48 FAL Clone

by Daniel Y

Published: January 21st, 2025

shot 2025 dsa x h r collab on t 48 fal clone

DS Arms is synonymous with FAL-pattern rifles, and this year they have a very interesting new and yet also old version. In collaboration with PSA’s Harrington & Richardson brand, DSA is reviving the T-48 FAL! Keep reading for the full scoop.

SHOT 2025 @ TFB:

The T-48 FAL is legendary among gun nerds for the “what if” that it represents in small arms development history. For those not initiated in the deep lore, the T-48 was submitted to the same set of trials that ultimately resulted in the M-14 rifle’s adoption by the US military. Most other western countries adopted some version of the FAL, and it is interesting to consider whether the M-16 would have been adopted when and how it was if the T-48 was in service rather than the M-14.

This specific model is a very close copy of the actual T-48. DSA has access to an FN-built and an H&R-built T-48, so the new production guns can be as close as possible to the originals. Specific features that are brough back to life include correct markings, the front sight hood, the flat front sling loop, and the receiver itself. FAL fans will note that the action looks different than most other FALs thanks to the presence of a stripper clip guide on top. The charging handle is also a different design than the knob found on most FAL rifles and it can act as a forward assist.

One note about the furniture is that these are early copies and the final form is still being finished for both the stock an pistol grips. There are a few features that are not yet as clome-correct as DSA and H&R would like and those are still being worked on. So while the furniture set shown seems pretty close to the average observer, true hard-core FAL-ophiles will be happier with production sets.

Other fun features include the rear sight graduations being in yards rather than the usual meters, and the unique trigger guard. It is a hinged unit that swings out of the way for use with mittens. It also nests nicely inside the cutout in the pistol grip.

There are no details yet on pricing or availability timelines, but expect it to cost more than the average DSA SA58 thanks to the additional machining work and wood furniture.

In other DSA news, they continue to work on refining the new production metal magazines. So while those are not for sale currently, they are coming and they are working to make sure they operate correctly with all FAL receivers.

Thank you to Bernie for taking us through the features of the T-48!