The video opens at Industry Day at the Range during SHOT Show 2026, where Classic Firearms visits the FN booth to examine the next generation of the SCAR platform. FN explains that the previous commercial rifles, now called the Legacy SCAR, were discontinued in the United States last fall. The new lineup replaces the 16S, 17S, and 20S on the commercial market. FN describes this as the next generation SCAR or “Icon Evolved,” emphasizing that the core characteristics of the original platform remain. Over a decade of development, driven largely by military solicitations and end-user feedback, produced more than 25 user-focused improvements aimed at refining the shooting experience, adaptability, and modularity while preserving the SCAR’s established durability and reliability.
FN highlights major external updates, starting with a full M-LOK integrated rail system. The new handguard is slimmer, easier to handle, and provides a longer gripping surface. On the SCAR 16 and 17 carbines, the receiver has been substantially lengthened so the gas block is fully covered by the receiver and integrated rail system. FN also focuses on suppressor use, noting that the rifles on the line are equipped with FN’s new QD762 and QD556 suppressors. These are forward-venting, low back pressure designs optimized for both next-generation and legacy SCAR rifles, yet suitable for any semi-automatic rifle host. FN stresses that concerns about suppressing a SCAR are addressed, and that any forward-venting, low back pressure suppressor is compatible with the new platform.
The discussion moves to control enhancements. FN states that every control surface was reviewed for potential improvement without sacrificing the SCAR’s core strengths. A key change is the addition of an ambidextrous bolt catch and release on the right side of the rifle. A right-handed shooter can operate it with the trigger finger, while a left-handed shooter can use the support hand when locking the bolt to the rear. The selector levers are redesigned and modular, with three levers included: a long offset, a short offset, and a center-style lever. Users can configure these to create 16 different selector combinations out of the box. Extended, teardrop-shaped magazine release buttons bring the control closer to the firing hand. The non-reciprocating charging handle capability is retained, keeping the charging hand in place during firing.
FN then details the internal changes, focusing on the new two-piece modular bolt carrier that incorporates a hydraulic buffer. This buffer functions as a shock absorber, slowing the moving parts assembly as it travels rearward and forward. By lengthening the time at rest when the bolt closes, the system significantly reduces felt recoil. FN describes the result as a smoother, softer-shooting rifle that helps the shooter stay on target and achieve faster follow-up shots. On the SCAR 20S, this is intended to help precision shooters maintain sight picture and observe impacts at progressively closer distances. FN notes that while many external improvements can be seen or read about, the real benefit of the hydraulic buffer is best understood on the range, where shooters can feel the difference in recoil impulse compared to earlier SCAR models.
On the firing line with the SCAR 17S in .308, equipped with FN’s forward-venting, low back pressure suppressor, the host comments on the improved controls and recoil characteristics. The extended magazine release offers a large, accessible surface area and feels intentionally engineered rather than added as an afterthought. While shooting, the host notes the absence of the familiar “thud” associated with earlier SCAR rifles, attributing the change to the hydraulic buffer system. The rifle still reflects its robust origins, originally built for harsh environments, but now refined through user feedback. The host reports no noticeable gas to the face while shooting suppressed and describes the sound as very manageable for an open range setting. FN mentions that this configuration is also available in 6.5 Creedmoor, suggesting that the recoil reduction would be especially noticeable in a carbine chambered in that caliber.
The video then shifts to the SCAR 16S, presented by one of FN’s lead engineers on the SCAR platform. This rifle is shown with FN’s QD556 suppressor, which shares the same forward-venting, low back pressure design as the .30-caliber version. The 16S carries over the longer receiver, fully ambidextrous controls, and hydraulically buffered bolt carrier from the 17S, essentially offering the same feature set in a lighter, smaller package. FN also introduces a new gray colorway alongside the existing black and FDE finishes. The host remarks on the visual appeal of this gray scheme and notes that it is the third color option introduced that year. The segment emphasizes that the ergonomic and functional upgrades seen on the SCAR Heavy are now present on the SCAR Light as well.
Back on the range with the SCAR 16S, the host evaluates the ergonomic changes while firing. The oversized magazine release, ambidextrous controls, and updated safety selector are described as meaningful quality-of-life improvements. The grip and the familiar SCAR stock, often nicknamed the “UGG boot,” maintain the recognizable profile while benefiting from the new control layout. During live fire, the host visibly anticipates recoil on the first shot and is surprised by how little the rifle moves. Follow-up shots reinforce the impression that the rifle stays flat and balanced, with the shooter able to feel the internal system working smoothly. The host praises the overall shooting experience and the new gray finish, drawing a visual comparison to certain British special operations aesthetics. The segment closes by noting that FN has applied the same next-generation approach across the SCAR 16S and 17S platforms for 2026 Industry Day coverage.
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