The FN SCAR 17S

Introduction to the FN SCAR 17S

The video opens with the hosts welcoming viewers back and introducing the featured rifle: the FN SCAR 17S, also known as the SCAR-H, chambered in .308 Winchester / 7.62x51 NATO. One host notes that it is among his favorites for nostalgic reasons and because of its association with combat trials, even though the platform had a mixed record in early military testing. They mention that this rifle has a reputation for being extremely hard on optics and that one of the hosts regularly uses it as a stress test for scopes and red dots. Early on, the SCAR was known for “eating” optics, with examples like Leupold Mark 6 scopes, EOTechs, and other glass failing under its unique recoil and operating characteristics. The hosts point out that optics technology has improved significantly since those early days, and many manufacturers now design products specifically to survive on rifles like the SCAR. They also highlight that this particular 17S features the updated non‑reciprocating charging handle, which helps prevent issues like “SCAR thumb” while still allowing the shooter to run the action confidently. The introduction sets the stage for a deeper look at the rifle’s history, operating system, and configuration as seen on the table and on the range.

SOCOM origins and SCAR-L vs. SCAR-H history

The conversation shifts to the origins of the SCAR program. In 2004, U.S. Special Operations Command issued a requirement for a new family of combat rifles tailored to special operations needs. FN responded with what became the SCAR program, an acronym for Special Operations Command Assault Rifle. In 2007, FN delivered the first batches for testing, and by 2009 both the SCAR-L and SCAR-H were formally adopted, with the SCAR-H designated as the Mk17. The SCAR-L was chambered in 5.56x45, while the SCAR-H used 7.62x51. The hosts note that units like the 75th Ranger Regiment, specifically 2nd Battalion Rangers, were among the first to receive the rifles, with roughly 600 guns initially fielded. Over time, the SCAR-L revealed a number of issues in service, including reliability complaints, accuracy concerns, and problems with the distinctive “Ugg boot” style stock breaking under hard use. At the same time, the SCAR-H generally performed better in the field, aside from the shared tendency to be rough on optics. As a result, the military ultimately chose to discontinue the dedicated SCAR-L program and instead focused on the SCAR-H, using 5.56 conversion kits when a smaller caliber was required. The hosts add that modern commercial 5.56 SCAR models have had those early problems addressed by FN and are now regarded as solid performers.

Optic durability and SCAR-rated glass

The hosts spend time discussing the SCAR platform’s reputation for being extremely demanding on optics. In its early years, the rifle was notorious for causing failures in scopes and red dots that had previously been considered rugged, including examples from brands like Leupold, EOTech, and Elcan. This led to the informal concept of optics being specifically “SCAR rated,” meaning they had been proven to survive the rifle’s sharp recoil impulse and unique operating cycle. The hosts explain that the short‑stroke piston system and the way the bolt carrier group moves create a distinct recoil signature that can be harsher on internal optic components than many other rifles. They emphasize that modern optics have improved substantially, with manufacturers reinforcing designs and testing them on platforms like the SCAR to ensure long‑term durability. As a result, current high‑quality glass tends to hold up much better than the early generations did. They also mention that FN has addressed earlier issues on newer 5.56 SCAR models, making them more reliable overall. When the topic of suppressors comes up, the hosts point out that the rifle includes a gas valve with settings for suppressed and unsuppressed use, but they also reference FN’s guidance that discourages running a suppressor on certain configurations, even with that gas setting present. They find this guidance somewhat confusing but note that it is the manufacturer’s stated position.

Specs, muzzle brake, and handling

Attention turns to the specific configuration of the SCAR 17S on the table. The rifle features a 16‑inch barrel and FN’s well‑known three‑chamber muzzle brake. The hosts describe the brake as extremely effective at keeping the rifle flat and controllable under rapid fire, but they also remark that the blast is very noticeable to the shooter and anyone nearby, with a strong concussion that can be felt in the chest. They characterize the rifle as a serious “thumper” in terms of both sound and impulse. The rifle retains the folding front sight post and matching rear sight, which can be deployed for backup use or folded down when running an optic. An angled foregrip from Magpul is installed on the forend; one host comments that the SCAR’s handguard is already fairly thick, and adding the AFG makes the front end feel even bulkier in the hand, which may or may not suit every shooter’s preferences. Overall, they portray the rifle as powerful, loud, and surprisingly controllable when set up correctly, with this particular configuration aimed at practical range and field use rather than being a safe queen.

Charging handle, magazines, and controls

The hosts then focus on the rifle’s controls and operating system. They highlight the non‑reciprocating charging handle on this SCAR 17S, noting that it can be configured on either side of the rifle to accommodate right‑ or left‑handed shooters. They appreciate that it allows charging from both sides while eliminating the risk of the handle cycling back and striking the shooter’s hand during firing. At the same time, the design still allows the shooter to manually assist the bolt forward if needed. The rifle uses SCAR‑specific magazines, which the hosts describe as reliable and well matched to the platform. They explain that the SCAR employs a short‑stroke gas piston system with an adjustable gas block, contributing to its reputation for reliability and its distinctive recoil impulse that historically stressed optics. The safety and fire selector are ambidextrous, further supporting use by shooters of either dominant hand. Throughout this segment, the hosts emphasize that the SCAR’s operating system is robust and combat‑oriented, with a control layout that feels intuitive once the shooter becomes familiar with it.

Trijicon optic and stock features

Mounted on the rifle is a Trijicon optic with 3.5x magnification and a 35 mm objective lens, featuring an illuminated reticle powered by tritium and fiber optics. The hosts mention a common field trick where users place a strip of tape over the fiber‑optic section to prevent the reticle from blooming or appearing overly bright in intense sunlight, allowing for a more precise aiming point. They then move to the stock, describing it as the familiar SCAR “Ugg boot” style. The stock telescopes to provide multiple length‑of‑pull positions and can be folded to the side to make the rifle more compact for storage or transport. It also includes an adjustable cheek riser to help the shooter achieve proper eye alignment behind optics of varying heights. These features, they explain, make the rifle easier to carry and stow while still allowing a solid, repeatable shooting position when deployed on the range or in the field.

Trigger, grip choices, and reliability notes

The hosts point out that the rifle shown retains an A2‑style pistol grip and the standard SCAR trigger. They remark that, despite it being a modern production gun, FN continues to ship many models with the basic A2 grip, even though higher‑end variants like the SCAR 20 come with upgraded grips such as Ergo units. One host notes that swapping to a Magpul K2 or BCM grip is a common and easy personal upgrade that can improve ergonomics for many shooters. They reiterate that the SCAR’s operating system is very reliable but delivers a sharp, rapid recoil impulse that historically put extra stress on optics. With current‑generation glass, this is less of a concern, as manufacturers have reinforced designs and tested them on platforms like the SCAR. The rifle is characterized as a robust, hard‑running 7.62 system that rewards thoughtful accessory choices, such as durable optics, a preferred grip, and possibly different muzzle devices, to tailor the shooting experience to the user.

Code word and closing remarks

To close out the video, the hosts introduce a code word tied to the rifle’s military designation: “Mark 17.” They clarify that acceptable variations include MK17, Mark 17 spelled out, and even M17. Viewers are encouraged to use this code word for participation in the associated promotion and for a chance to eventually add a SCAR 17S to their own collection, with the hope that it will see regular range time rather than sitting unused. The hosts wrap up with a brief expression of appreciation to viewers and customers, reminding everyone to enjoy their time on the range responsibly and to stay tuned for more content featuring rifles like the SCAR and other firearms visible in the background of the set.